Archive of Our Own

A Slow Burn

Did I buy wicks?

Such a simple question, yet it led Jeonghan to two very monumental, startling realizations. Not only had he not bought candle wicks, but something was very wrong. He was in the middle of his heat cycle with an alpha panting hotly against his neck, thrifted bed frame rocking quietly as his thrusting grew desperate, his grip on Jeonghan’s thigh tightening, his knot beginning to catch. 

Jeonghan felt safe in the arms of this alpha. They’d met through mutual friends and he seemed nice enough. Witty enough. Conventionally attractive enough. 

And yet Jeonghan was thinking about candle wicks.

With a carnal snarl of pleasure, the alpha lowered himself over Jeonghan, locking them together in the close heat of a haphazard nest. 

“Okay?” he asked into the crook of Jeonghan’s neck. 

Jeonghan hummed a response and combed soothing fingers through the young man’s hair. 

The alpha promptly dozed off, leaving Jeonghan to stare at the ceiling alone with his thoughts. 

Many of his omega friends talked about their heats in ways that always left Jeonghan puzzled. He understood the discomfort that permeated through their bodies and left them feeling cold and craving contact. What he didn’t understand was the way they talked about knots—how it was a primal need that their omegas yearned for, sometimes almost to the point of irrationality. 

Jeonghan had never felt like that about an alpha or a knot, not even in the deepest throes of his heats.

He longed for closeness. 

He longed for comfort. 

He longed for gentle intimacy and for a nest that wasn’t imperfect and haphazard. 

So as he stared at the dancing glow of city lights on the ceiling, stuffed full of a knot he consented to yet felt indifferent toward, thinking about alphas and nests and unbought candle wicks, a realization settled over Jeonghan, petal-soft and dawn-quiet. He didn’t want an alpha. 

Jeonghan wanted an omega.

But that was years ago, before he met his current friends, before he quit his retail job to focus on his small candle making business, and before he came to terms with the fact that he was fundamentally, biologically broken.

“If you say that again, I’m gonna…” Soonyoung frowns, finger pointed at Jeonghan accusingly as he trails off, the frustration in his features well-meaning and endearing. 

“You’ll…?” Jeonghan prompts, amused. He sips his coffee. 

“Give him a second. He’s thinking,” Mingyu whispers and smothers a giggle as he passes through the storefront carrying a stack of boxes. 

“I’m gonna give you a hug and make you think about what you said,” Soonyoung concludes. The alpha crosses his arms proudly, his woody scent permeating through the shop. 

Jeonghan chuckles, “Isn’t it unwise to threaten your boss?”

“Good thing I haven’t clocked in yet,” he quips back with a sassy smirk. “I’m still in friend-mode.”

“Hang on, are we supposed to be clocking in?” Vernon asks, pausing with his own armload of boxes. 

Soonyoung gasps dramatically, “You haven’t been?”

“Don’t let him mess with you,” Mingyu says. He dusts off his hands and ruffles the hair of their youngest alpha friend. 

“He’s serious,” Jeonghan replies, straightfaced. “How else do you think I calculate your working hours?”

Mingyu’s grin falls, “Wait, really?”

Soonyoung breaks and cackles. Mingyu scrunches his nose and gives him a gentle shove. 

“You’re the worst.”

“Hey, Jeonghan did it too!”

“But he pays me.”

They all share a laugh in the tidy, pastel-painted store that they’ve worked so hard to make, an ode to subtle-scented comfort, a collage of frosted glass, a monument to work-life balance and fair pay. 

It’s small, but it’s theirs. 

And this is all I’ll ever need. 

It has to be.

Vernon and Mingyu continue carrying boxes into the back offices. Jeonghan sips his coffee. Soonyoung turns to face him again, the playful mischief fading from his features.

“Really, I mean it. You’re not broken.”

“Thank you, Soonyoung,” Jeonghan replies softly, offering his friend a small smile. “I appreciate the sentiment.”

Soonyoung pouts, like he isn’t quite sure whether to take the words at face value or continue pushing. Jeonghan can sense the unease in his own scent. He tries to tamp it down with calming pheromones. 

“I’m okay. I promise.”

“Well…maybe you should take a vacation this time,” Soonyoung suggests. “You always work through your heats, so a break might be good.”

“And leave you three in charge? I think not,” Jeonghan teases.

“We could do it.”

“With the amount of candles in here, I’d be scared you’d burn it all down.”

“Excuse me, we don’t light the candles,” Soonyoung waves off his concern. “It’ll be fine.”

Their conversation is paused as a customer walks in, a nice young omega man looking for a birthday gift for his mate. He exits with a candle that smells like sugar cookies and a fond expression that leaves a tender, raw hollowness in Jeonghan’s chest.

He sighs quietly as the door closes, “Maybe a vacation would be nice.”

Soonyoung, who’d been diligently straightening displays, turns toward him brightly, “Yeah! And you have like—what’d you say? A month?—almost a month to decide anyway.”

Jeonghan hums an indecisive response, setting aside his empty mug. The outside is peppered with bright ladybugs, a gift from Mingyu during the last holiday season.

Soonyoung walks over and draws him into a gentle embrace, “Whatever you choose, we’ll support you, okay?”

“Even if I don’t go?”

“Sorry, that’s not an option.”

Jeonghan clicks his tongue in playful disapproval as Soonyoung giggles. His alpha friend scents him lightly, familiar notes of wood mixing with rich, earthy pumpkin. 

He can smell traces of Jihoon too, fresh apple, faded with hours apart yet sweet with contentment.

“Speaking of work, you better go help Mingyu and Vernon,” Jeonghan says, though he’s reluctant to let go. His omega wants comfort, even if just platonically. “Those jars aren’t going to unpack themselves.”

Soonyoung pulls away with a grin and a wink, “Good thing they don’t. That’s job security.”

Jeonghan laughs, “Right. Because why else would I keep you knotheads around?”

“You love us.”

“Unfortunately, I do.”

Soonyoung cackles and heads to the back offices to join the other two alphas. As the door opens, music floats through. Vernon’s doing, no doubt. 

The music and Jeonghan’s affectionate joy disappears with Soonyoung as the door closes. 

He stares at the dark dregs of coffee in his mug, stark against the white ceramic glaze.

To a degree, Jeonghan knows Soonyoung is right. 

He hasn’t taken a proper break in months. 

Even if he has to take on the bulk of responsibilities for his business, isn’t he always the one telling his friends to take time off to live life?

Still, the prospect of spending his heat alone looms over him like a ghost. 

At least here, he’s surrounded by people who care about him, traces of familiarity and comfort and acceptance. A woody scent. Upbeat music. A mug covered in ladybugs. Here, there is bickering and banter and laughter. Here, he feels loved.

At home, all Jeonghan would have is himself, an uncomfortable heat smoldering under his skin, and a haphazard, lonely nest. 

Morning turns to a cotton-clouded, late-summer afternoon amidst a steady flow of people. Jeonghan greets each of them with a smile and more often than not, they leave with a candle or two in a patterned paper bag. Mingyu and Soonyoung check on him frequently, bringing water and snacks and making sure he eats his lunch. Vernon mostly stays in the back, which seems to suit him best. He’s Jeonghan’s least distracted, most productive employee, after all. Not that the bar is very high. (Kidding. He loves them and appreciates their hard work immensely.)

During one of Mingyu’s visits, he lingers in the storefront longer than usual, conversing with blushing, giggling young omega women who look at him like one might gaze upon a handsome new yacht. Mingyu, meanwhile, keeps glancing toward the door.

Jeonghan minds his own business with an affectionate roll of his eyes. 

The young women buy far too many candles for their own good, but Jeonghan won’t argue with them. The subtle way they carry their wealth tells him everything he needs to know and Mingyu seems unfazed with their blatant flirting. 

They wave goodbye, cooing and promising to be back. Mingyu offers them a bright grin and returns their waves easily. 

In the midst of their scents, Jeonghan catches a hint of maple. 

Ah. 

He smiles to himself as Wonwoo weaves between the young women who linger in the threshold amidst excited whispers, indifferent to his presence.

Mingyu’s posture immediately relaxes, his scent getting subtly thicker, and he leans against the countertop with a cheesy, suave smile. 

“Hey handsome,” he wiggles his eyebrows playfully. 

Wonwoo’s maple scent spikes as he laughs, scrunching his nose, “Hey loverboy.”

“Why does everyone keep calling me that?” Mingyu pouts, fighting a laugh.

“Because it describes you perfectly. Hi Jeonghan.”

“Hi Wonwoo.”

“Mind if I steal Mingyu for a minute?”

“As long as you don’t have sex in the supply closet again.”

Mingyu lets out a distressed sound, “Excuse me, we never did that! That’s unprofessional and unromantic.”

Wonwoo and Jeonghan share a laugh. 

Poor Mingyu. 

“He’s all yours,” Jeonghan smiles, and their conversation shifts into his periphery as movement catches his eye.

He instinctively looks toward the shop entrance with his best customer-service smile, ready to greet the person that had been holding the door open for the group of women. 

A young man enters the shop, storybook handsome and beautiful like the moon, his broad shoulders and elegant stature softened by kind features and his omega scent. 

Vanilla. 

It permeates gently through Jeonghan’s senses, sweet on his tongue, light like whipped cream. 

His generic, placating greeting suddenly seems inadequate. 

Sparse afternoon sunlight plays in the omega’s hair as he lets the door close behind him. He glances around with mild curiosity until his gaze meets Jeonghan’s, then he smiles. It’s bright like he means it, and it reaches his eyes like a fondly whispered inside joke, a mix of mirth, affection, and mischief. 

Jeonghan’s omega’s interest piques, but he stops the errant thoughts before they can start. 

“Oh, good. I’m glad you didn’t get lost,” Wonwoo says. His expression is neutral but his tone is teasing. 

They must be familiar with each other. 

The young man laughs, a gentle sound that suits him, “It’s kind of hard to lose you when you smell like that.”

Wonwoo scrunches his nose. His maple scent thickens, but there’s no sign of actual distress. 

Mingyu giggles. Jeonghan huffs in amusement. The unfamiliar omega beams, pleased, and his full attention turns to Jeonghan.

There’s an unexpected flutter in Jeonghan’s heart, and pleasant warmth blossoms in his cheeks.

“Hi,” he manages, somehow finding the word in the haze in his mind.

The other omega’s smile softens, “Hi.”

“This is Joshua,” Wonwoo gestures. “Shua, this is Jeonghan.”

“They work together,” Mingyu clarifies. 

Joshua extends a hand to shake, “Nice to finally meet you.”

“The pleasure is mine,” Jeonghan replies, glad to find his words again, and accepts the greeting. 

His hands are big, his omega notes. Strong too. Yet gentle.

Jeonghan sets the thought aside. 

“Jihoon and Soonyoung talk about you a lot,” Joshua says amicably. There’s something comfortable about his voice, like childhood friendship or chilly nights painted with autumn and starlight. 

“They do?” Jeonghan asks, playfulness lacing through his tone. 

Joshua nods, “Good things, I promise.”

In Jeonghan’s periphery, he sees Wonwoo follow Mingyu around the counter and into the offices.

He lets out an amused sound, “I wonder what they’re up to.”

“Wonwoo and I were going to get some lunch on our break. He asked if Mingyu wanted anything. Mingyu insisted on paying,” Joshua explains as he idly picks up a candle to read the label, then mindfully sets it back down. 

“That’s nice of him.”

“Isn’t it? But part of me wonders if it’s an alpha thing.”

“Ah, Mingyu isn’t like that. He’s just a generous person,” Jeonghan says.

“I didn’t mean it in a bad way,” Joshua amends with an apologetic smile. “More like…he could be leaning into the protect and provide instincts.”

Jeonghan huffs a laugh, “You know what? You’re probably right. He does that a lot.”

Joshua’s gaze settles curiously on Jeonghan, “Would you like something to eat?”

“I’m okay, thank you. I had lunch a little while ago.”

“No worries,” Joshua smiles, and something changes subtly in his scent. 

Discomfort? No. Disappointment?

Jeonghan pauses, just for a moment. 

Had there been words between Joshua’s words? A question beneath his question? 

Could he be like me?

The thought sweeps through Jeonghan like a flame, but it dwindles to embers just as quickly. 

With Mingyu gone, Jeonghan can smell another alpha’s scent on Joshua, hints of the ocean, a salty breeze and sunbaked sand.

It’s not strong enough to be from scenting, but it’s in the fibers of the omega’s clothes. It doesn’t bode well. And single or not, the statistical likelihood of Joshua being interested in omegas is against Jeonghan. 

I shouldn’t get my hopes up.

The door to the back offices opens, effectively ending the conversation, and Wonwoo returns with Mingyu. They’re talking quietly in the way that couples do. Affectionate murmurs and casual touches. Jeonghan’s omega longs for it. 

“Will you stop? We’ll be right back,” Wonwoo laughs, batting away Mingyu’s hands as the alpha tries to cling to him. 

Mingyu pouts, “But I miss you.”

“I’m not even gone yet.”

“I miss you anyway.”

“Should we tell them to get a room?” Joshua teases, glancing at Jeonghan, the disappointment gone, replaced by playful mischief in his eyes.

Jeonghan smirks, his gaze slipping back to his friends, “Guys, I take back what I said earlier. If you need the supply closet—“

“Oh my god,” Mingyu wails humorously. His pursuit stops as he hides his face in his hands. “We don’t even have a supply closet.”

“We do,” Jeonghan replies. “It’s just not big enough for both you and the broom.”

“Then I definitely won’t fit in there too,” Wonwoo sighs dramatically and all four of them share a laugh. After he regains his composure, Wonwoo starts toward the exit. “Alright, see you guys in a few.”

Joshua follows him, offering Jeonghan a wave and an autumn-sweet, charming smile. The memory of it lingers in Jeonghan’s chest like a wish. 

He glances at Mingyu, who takes a deep breath, his lips set in a probably subconscious pout.

“Wanna go with them?”

The alpha’s expression immediately brightens, “Can I?”

“Sure. I let Soonyoung leave all the time for errands. It’s only fair.”

“Awesome!” Mingyu rushes toward the door, grinning with contagious joy. “Thanks Jeonghan!”

“Anytime.”

Letting in a whisper of warm afternoon air, Mingyu clumsily but politely skirts around a pair of middle-aged women who enter the store with curiosity written in their expression. Jeonghan greets them with his customer-service smile, genuine to a degree, but only a shadow of his true self, a silhouette cast upon the thin sheets of mulberry paper windows.

Hiding because he’s different. 

Broken.

Mingyu’s familiar, comforting fresh coffee scent begins to fade. Since he went with them, they won’t have to come back to the store to drop off the food, which means Jeonghan won’t have to see Joshua again.

It’s for the best. He seems to already have an alpha, anyway.

Days pass in the same way they usually do, with Jeonghan surrounded by his friends and the scents of the candles he creates. He busies himself preparing for a new collection he’s been brainstorming. Within the Woods—or something catchy like that—made with hints of the deep forest and notes of rich green and damp earth. It’s been on the backburner for a few weeks now, and Jeonghan finds himself excited for a challenge.

He doesn’t think about Joshua, except when he smells faint vanilla on Jihoon or Wonwoo when they visit.

Each time, Jeonghan sets the thoughts aside gently. Almost as gentle as Joshua’s smile.

So days pass as they usually do, and he tries not to think about his next looming lonely heat.

It’s been a slow morning, even for a weekday, and Jeonghan decides to indulge in an actual lunch break.

He flips the sign to “Closed” on the door and slips into the back offices to grab his food from the mini fridge. Down the hall, he can hear his friends’ voices.

“And Seungkwan still said no?” Soonyoung asks, scandalized.

“He didn’t say no,” Vernon replies in that calm, unbothered way he always does. “He just said we need to go on another date.”

“Didn’t he say that last time?” Mingyu asks.

“That was only the first time we hung out and actually called it a date, so I can’t blame him,” Vernon says. 

Soonyoung groans, “Literally how many dates do you have to go on for him to call you his boyfriend? Where’s my phone? I’m gonna call him.”

“Don’t you dare,” Mingyu scolds. “Vernon can handle this himself.”

“Apparently not. Someone needs to talk some sense into Seungkwan—”

“And that person definitely isn’t you.”

Jeonghan stops in the doorway, watching as Mingyu and Soonyoung playfully wrestle. He shakes his head fondly, “Am I paying you guys to argue or work?”

“We’re on lunch break,” Soonyoung says, Mingyu’s palm pressed firmly against the side of his head.

“And how long have you been on lunch break?” Jeonghan asks, mostly teasing.

Vernon looks at his watch, “About ten minutes.”

“You should join us,” Mingyu beams. He lets go of Soonyoung, who rights himself with a giggle.

Jeonghan glances at the container of salad in his hands, then laughs softly, “If you insist.”

“Well, this is us, insisting,” Soonyoung cackles. He hurries over to the desk where they typically do product photos and rolls over an empty office chair, then gestures for Jeonghan to sit.

He does, setting his salad carefully on the tabletop cluttered with rolls of labels and stacks of packing materials.

“So what’s all this commotion I hear about Seungkwan?”

Jeonghan has never actually met the other omega, but he could recognize his scent and he’s heard about Seungkwan enough to feel like he knows him.

Mingyu mixes around some pasta in a plastic container as he answers, “Vernon finally took him on a date, but they’re still not boyfriends and he’s confused.”

“We’re all confused,” Soonyoung complains.

Jeonghan just hums in acknowledgement, an open ended invitation to continue.

“I dunno,” Vernon shrugs. “I’m not too worried about it. Seungkwan said he wants us to go on another date. That’s pretty straightforward.”

“But aren’t second dates for people who like, aren’t already dating?” Soonyoung asks.

Mingyu puts his fork down to pinch the bridge of his nose, “What are you even saying?”

“Listen.”

“I am listening.”

Soonyoung gestures vaguely at Vernon, “They hang out all the time. They spend Seugnkwan’s heats together. They literally smell like each other more than themselves. How are they not dating?”

“You could say the same thing about the three of us and we’re not dating,” Mingyu retorts, then winces. “Except the heat part.”

Soonyoung almost falls out of his chair laughing. Amused, Vernon cringes.

It’s at this point that Jeonghan turns to his youngest alpha friend.

“For what it’s worth, I think you’ve got the right idea. A second date is what Seungkwan said he wanted,” Jeonghan says encouragingly. “Why not listen to him?”

“Exactly,” Vernon nods, and if Jeonghan hadn’t known him better, he might have missed the fond smile hidden in the young alpha’s expression.

“So anyway,” Soonyoung perches on the edge of his office chair, elbows poised on the table, chin resting on the heels of his hands, “we should do a triple date. Maybe get things going between you two.”

“A triple date?” Vernon asks, humorously skeptical. 

“Yeah! Me and Jihoon. Mingyu and Wonwoo. You and Seungkwan.”

Something sharp settles in Jeonghan’s chest. Despite suddenly not feeling hungry, he takes a small bite of his salad in an attempt to distract himself. It doesn’t work. Even he can smell his own scent change with mild distress, pumpkin now overly sweet like decay.

All three alphas glance at him. 

Jeonghan offers them a reassuring smile. 

Soonyoung studies him for a beat, “You should come too—if you want.”

“And be a seventh wheel? How thrilling,” Jeonghan chuckles, but the stinging in his chest eases slightly. “I’ll pass this time.”

“Think about it,” Soonyoung smiles, then looks back at Vernon. “So? You in?”

“I don’t know if Seungkwan would like that,” Vernon ventures after a beat of silence. 

“Are you kidding? He loves us,” Soonyoung says.

Mingyu hums thoughtfully, “Maybe not for their second date though.”

“I can see that,” Soonyoung nods, but then his smile slips into a mischievous Cheshire grin. “Well, I’ll just make reservations and if it’s a date, then it’s a date. If it isn’t, then we’re all just friends hanging out, right?”

Vernon shrugs, unbothered, “Okay. I’ll ask him when I see him next.”

“When’s that?”

“Tonight.”

“Of course it is.”

He was supposed to go home an hour ago. The shop had closed, the sun had set, and Jeonghan had stayed in the back offices surrounded by essential oils. There’s something about these last few candles in the new collection that isn’t working, and despite the budding headache behind his eyes, Jeonghan is determined to figure out what it is.

Carefully, he lets one more drop of sweetpea oil fall into the glass bottle. He gives it a sniff and winces. It’s less forest, more fresh bouquet.

Maybe it’s too floral.

Jeonghan sighs and sets the bottle aside, gently pressing the heels of his palms against his eye sockets.

Soonyoung would tell me to take a break and go home. Clear my head. And my sinuses.

For once, Jeonghan decides to listen. Letting out a small hopeless laugh, he starts to clean up. 

The city evening is colorful with the bright fluorescents of humanity and the last traces of fading sunlight as he leaves the shop and begins the short walk home to his empty studio apartment. There are enough people around to make him feel…not exactly safe, but less nervous.

It’s been weeks since the last incident, since another random alpha approached Jeonghan and desperately clung to a conversation that had been dying since its start. Soonyoung had insisted someone walk with Jeonghan to and from work, but with time, the fear began to fade and Jeonghan politely declined the offer in favor of independence.

At least, that’s what he told his friends.

He just didn’t want to be an inconvenience anymore.

Mingyu had suggested loaning Jeonghan some clothes. A jacket or scarf during winter would be easy enough. Summer is a bit more difficult, so Jeonghan had been swept up in a giggly hug.

He still smells like fresh coffee.

No one bothers him.

Just as Jeonghan reaches his apartment complex, he feels his phone vibrate in his pocket.

“Hello?” he asks without looking at the caller ID, his gaze on the building’s keypad instead. His fingers find the numbered buttons leisurely with mundaneness and deft with practice.

“Are you busy?” Vernon asks, not rude, just practical as always.

“Not too busy for you. Everything okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine. Great actually. I pulled some strings and got tickets to a game tonight.”

“That is great,” Jeonghan replies with a fond smile as he lets himself into the building. “What kind of game?”

“Volleyball, I think,” Vernon sounds more excited than usual, especially considering he’s talking about sports. It’s in the tone of his voice, almost nervous or giddy but in a good way.

“You think?” Jeonghan teases.

“I don’t know. It’s a team Seungkwan’s always talking about. I should…probably look it up.”

“Probably.” Jeonghan laughs as he steps into the elevator, continuing, “And you called because you’re excited? Or because you wanted to tap into my vast sports knowledge?”

They’re both aware he knows absolutely nothing about sports.

“Well, we already told Soonyoung we’d do his triple date thing. He made reservations at some fancy river-side restaurant and I’d feel bad just ditching him.”

“You don’t need my permission,” Jeonghan says, amused. He suspects he knows where this is going.

Vernon lets out an indecisive noise and Jeonghan can picture him scrunching his nose in a half-cringe.

“Yeah but like, then he’s gonna be disappointed.”

“Are you asking for my advice?”

“Kinda? Would you wanna go instead?”

“Vernon, I’m flattered but I have a strict no dating policy when it comes to employees—”

The young alpha laughs, “Shut up.”

Jeonghan smiles to himself, pulling his keys out of his pocket as he approaches his door, “It sounds to me like you shouldn’t worry. You have a perfect date idea. Seungkwan will love it.”

“You didn’t answer my question.”

“It seems like a nonissue. Their triple date can easily be a double date.”

“Yeah, but if you go, Soonyoung won’t be mad at me.”

Jeonghan opens the door and lets himself into the dark apartment. It’s a small space, but it suddenly feels cavernous. Empty.

“When is the reservation?”

“In about thirty minutes.”

“Text me the address?”

“Sure.”

Jeonghan’s gaze lowers for a moment, then he turns around and heads back toward the elevator. He keeps his tone playful, “But make sure you tell Soonyoung and Mingyu you aren’t going. We don’t need them worrying about you.”

Vernon’s smile is clear in his voice, “Thanks Jeonghan. You’re the best.”

“Go get yourself a boyfriend.”

It takes Jeonghan the whole half an hour to get there. The walk is pleasant enough, if a little warm with the late summer heat trapped between tall buildings, but both the potent scents of the essential oils and his headache dissipate by the time he sees the restaurant. Beyond it lies the dark mass of the river that cuts through the city.

Jeonghan passes the windows punctuated by well-groomed ornamental shrubs and enters into the gilded warmth of classy lamplight and the formality of quiet jazz music. He’s probably underdressed in business casual, but it doesn’t matter. 

It’s not like I’m here for a date. 

He huffs a soft laugh and glances around, hoping to find his friends. He can’t catch their scents in this crowded place, but thankfully, Soonyoung and Mingyu aren’t exactly hard to spot. Or hear.

Usually. But they know when not to yell, and this is a place for murmured conversation and expensive wine. 

It takes a few seconds for Jeonghan to find his friends across the dining area. He gives the hostess a polite nod as he walks past her.

They’re your friends. It’ll be fine. And worst case scenario, I can just leave—

Jeonghan hesitates when he sees a fifth person at the table.

Joshua’s gaze finds him easily, his smile benign until it turns summer-sweet and autumn-soft with recognition. The dim lights of the restaurant catch in his eyes like stars. Jeonghan’s cheeks suddenly feel warm, and his omega aches with longing, with the desire to be noticed, comforted, and accepted. Setting aside the thought, he returns Joshua’s smile, then approaches the table quietly, “Hello. Hope I’m not crashing the party.”

“Yoon Jeonghan!” Mingyu coos, patting the vacant chair next to him. “You’re not crashing anything.”

“Good to see you,” Wonwoo greets. His expression is neutral but his tone is affectionate.

Jihoon offers Jeonghan an acknowledging nod.

“Well, well, well. Look who finally took a night off,” Soonyoung teases with a bright grin. 

Jeonghan chuckles as he takes the empty seat beside Mingyu, across from Joshua, “How could I say no? Vernon hardly ever asks for anything.”

“To be fair, I did originally invite you, too,” Soonyoung says, sliding a bread basket closer to Jeonghan.

“You did. I appreciate it,” he replies, picking up a buttery roll to set on his bread plate.

Bread plate. God, I’m so underdressed.

He wants to laugh, but he doesn’t.

“You’re here now, and that’s the important part,” Mingyu declares. “Wonwoo even invited Joshua to keep you company.”

Risking a glance at the other omega, Jeonghan finds comfort in the fact that it looks like Joshua just got off from work too. 

So they’re both somewhat out of place here. Spares in a room of perfect pairs.

At least we can be alone together.

He internally cringes at the cliched thought, but he does feel a little bit better.

“Don’t worry, I don’t bite,” Joshua says humorously. 

Jeonghan hums, “Not even if I asked nicely?”

Joshua smiles innocently, unfazed, “I mean, in that case…”

“Oh,” Soonyoung pouts, “but when I try to do it, it’s ‘Soonyoung, stop, that’s unprofessional.’’’

All six of them burst into smothered laughter, even Jihoon, who practically falls over into Soonyoung’s lap. Mingyu makes a comment. Soonyoung retaliates and teases him. The laughter turns into playful bickering.

Jeonghan glances at Joshua, who meets his gaze with shared amusement.

Through the myriad of scents in the room, from omegas to alphas to small-portioned savory food, Jeonghan finds a hint of subtle vanilla. It soothes his omega in ways he’d be afraid to describe. 

The conversation moves on.

Joshua fits in seamlessly with their group of friends, and regardless of how long they’ve known each other, Jeonghan can appreciate the company of someone with a good sense of humor and a sharp wit. 

Someone fairytale handsome, charming, and gentle.

Someone like Joshua.

Part of him wishes that maybe…no. Wishing is pointless.

Amidst the vanilla is the scent of the ocean, the scent of an alpha, the reminder that Jeonghan is broken and no omega will want him.

An empty apartment. A haphazard nest. Another heat spent alone.

We’ve only spoken twice, anyway. I’m just romanticizing him.

Jeonghan stares at the bread on his bread plate, a small, torn piece of it pinched lightly in his fingers. He’s glad for the muddy mix of scents in the room. No one will sense his despair—

“Jeonghan?”

He looks up to find Joshua watching him, concern in his eyes as he offers a worried smile. Their friends are still occupied with their banter. Same song and dance, different subject.

Joshua continues after a moment, “Something on your mind?”

“Just work,” he says, deflecting, because the truth is too complicated to tell someone who’s still practically a stranger. “I’ve been developing a new candle collection.”

“Oh, that sounds pretty fun,” Joshua says, brightening a bit. “How does one develop a candle collection?”

Jeonghan chuckles, “Very carefully.”

“I mean it,” the omega laughs, his nose scrunching.

Cute.

Jeonghan sets the thought aside in favor of humor, “How much do you want to know?”

“How much do you want to tell me?” Joshua replies playfully. “We have a whole dinner to get through.”

“Yes, but I wouldn’t want to bore you with fun facts about candle making.”

“I wouldn’t have asked if I wasn’t interested.”

“Touché.”

“Besides, I like listening to people talk about things they’re passionate about.”

“I don’t know if it’s the candles themselves…”

“Then what is it?” Joshua asks quietly, genuinely, watching him with a kind of gentle intensity that makes all the sounds and scents fade around them, like Jeonghan’s answer is worth the entirety of his attention.

Fondness settles in Jeonghan’s chest, “I think it’s how the candles make people feel.”

“Cozy and comfortable?”

“Exactly.”

“That’s beautiful,” Joshua says. “I’ll have to stop by again and pick one out.”

Jeonghan huffs a laugh, “You don’t have to.”

“I want to,” Joshua replies teasingly.

“I guess I can’t argue with that.”

The waiter approaches their table and Jeonghan quickly glances over the menu as his friends order. He picks the first thing that looks appetizing and won’t empty his wallet.

As soon as the waiter leaves, Soonyoung sighs, “Can you believe Vernon and Seungkwan ditched us?”

“To be fair, where they went was probably better,” Mingyu shrugs.

“Vernon doesn’t watch sports.”

“But Seungkwan does. And I’m sure if he’s having fun, Vernon’s having fun too.”

“Yeah, but now I don’t know what’s happening.”

“Why are you so nosy?”

“I’m invested.”

Their friendly bickering continues. Soonyoung defends himself valiantly. Mingyu defends Vernon. Wonwoo makes a comment here and there, fanning the flames, amused and fighting a smile.

Jeonghan listens idly as he picks at the bread on his plate, but he glances at Joshua. The other omega, however, is speaking quietly with Jihoon about switching around some scheduled days at work. Jeonghan doesn’t want to pry, so he turns his attention back to his other friends.

The food arrives some time later. It’s decent, and the six of them eat amidst conversations about music, TV shows, social media drama, and nostalgic, late-night experiences at cheap fast food places. To their credit, Soonyoung, Mingyu, Wonwoo, and Jihoon don’t make it feel like a double date.

Only one person gets clingy—Mingyu, but that’s relatively normal. He seems to always have an arm around Wonwoo’s shoulders or a hand on his thigh. Outwardly, the omega just seems to tolerate it, though by his scent, he does seem pleased.

Other than that, they might as well be in the candle shop instead of a fancy restaurant, simply laughing and talking and enjoying themselves, just a few decibels quieter than usual and surrounded by expensive people and fancy jazz music. 

Jeonghan doesn’t feel as excluded as he feared he might. 

In fact, he actually has a good time. 

As Jeonghan counts the money he pulls from his wallet to pay his portion of the bill, Mingyu clears his throat, “Anyone wanna go for a walk by the river?”

“Sure,” Wonwoo shrugs. “I need to walk off some of this food.”

Joshua hums thoughtfully, “Good point. I guess I’ll go too.”

Soonyoung perks up, then pauses, glancing at Jihoon. The omega sighs, “I don’t know. I’m kind of tired.”

“Then we should probably get you home,” Soonyoung says. He bumps his head affectionately against Jihoon’s.

“Jeonghan, you coming?” Mingyu asks.

He hesitates. It’s been a long day, but fresh air does sound nice.

And Joshua’s going, his omega reminds him.

“C’mon, don’t let me third wheel alone,” Joshua says, his playful pout doing nothing to hide his smile.

Jeonghan huffs a laugh, “Okay, I’ll go.”

Mingyu cheers quietly, looping an arm around Jeonghan’s shoulders to gently jostle him, “Someone’s adventurous tonight.”

“Don’t make me second guess myself,” Jeonghan teases.

Mingyu only giggles.

They exit the restaurant and say goodbye to Soonyoung and Jihoon, then head toward the path that parallels the river. It’s late enough that the heat of the day has somewhat dissipated, leaving the night air cool with a slight breeze. There aren’t many people on the path, only a few bicyclists, some late night joggers, and a few couples walking dogs.

Mingyu stops and happily pets any dogs that approach him, which is practically all of them. Jeonghan doesn’t really mind, but after the third or fourth time, Wonwoo turns to them apologetically.

“You guys don’t have to wait if you don’t want to.”

“Does this happen a lot?” Joshua asks, amusement in his eyes.

“More often than you’d think,” Wonwoo chuckles. He glances at Mingyu, who is now sitting on the cement with a large dog in his lap. He’s talking to the owners like he knows them (but Mingyu treats most people that way).

Jeonghan raises an eyebrow, “Are you sure?”

“Yeah. This might take a while.”

Jeonghan and Joshua exchange a glance, then the latter smiles kindly, “Call us if you need anything.”

Wonwoo nods, “Will do.”

So they continue down the path, a polite amount of space between them as they walk. The river is quiet for its immensity, glittering with the reflections of the city night like colorful stars. It’s much easier to find Joshua’s scent here, and Jeonghan lets himself get lost in it, even if it’s only for now.

“So you work at the music store with Jihoon and Wonwoo?” Jeonghan asks after a minute or two of comfortable silence.

Joshua nods, “Yeah. I’ve been there for a couple weeks. It’s nice.”

“Any particular reason why? Or just for the paycheck?” His tone is teasing, but Jeonghan is curious and it’s easier to ask these questions than ask about the alpha’s scent on Joshua’s clothes.

“Mostly for the money,” Joshua laughs softly. “But y’know, my coworkers are pretty great and I get discounts on guitar strings.”

“Guitar strings? Do you play?”

“No. I just collect them.”

They stop walking as Jeonghan stares at his companion for a beat. 

Oh.

They share a laugh, sudden and bright, warm and wonderful as it wells in Jeonghan’s belly. It’s the type of laugh that he feels with his whole body, the joy of it spreading all the way to his fingertips. It’s the type of laugh that blossoms in his heart like wildflowers. It’s the type of laugh that leaves them leaning into each other, one of Joshua’s hands coming up to brush against the small of Jeonghan’s back.

His touch is fleeting yet gentle, and the ghost of it whispers sweetly in Jeonghan’s memory like the scents of vanilla and pumpkin that surround them.

“I’ve played guitar since I was a teenager,” Joshua amends as they continue walking. “Mostly casually.”

“What? No weekend garage bands?”

“Don’t laugh.”

“Now I’m curious.”

“We played at bars on weeknights and festivals on weekends,” Joshua’s cheeks dust pink as he smiles sheepishly. The cool-toned streetlights that line the path paint his features beautifully, almost like moonlight. “It was my main source of income for a while, but some of the other members got busy and I had to find a job with a more consistent paycheck.”

“That’s fair. Did you like it?”

“To do something that much? I would hope I’d like it,” Joshua replies humorously.

Jeonghan chuckles, “But did you?”

“Yeah. I miss it.”

“Can’t you technically still play?”

“Sure, but it’s not the same,” Joshua shrugs, his smile becoming wistful.

“You miss the crowd?”

“Not as much as I miss just making music with my friends. Like you said about your candles, I think I miss…how playing guitar made me feel.”

Jeonghan watches his companion for a moment, taking in his words and the meaning that was woven into them, “And how did it make you feel?”

“Happy. Sad. Everything in between,” Joshua lets out a soft laugh. “I guess it depends on the song. But really, I felt like I was part of something bigger, and like I was making something worth listening to.”

“Understandable.”

“That too.”

Jeonghan hums in question.

“I felt understood,” Joshua clarifies. His gaze meets Jeonghan’s briefly before he looks away, a shy smile kissing the corners of his lips. “Or like it didn’t matter whether or not people understood me. They only saw that I was making something beautiful—or heard. Since it’s music.”

Jeonghan lets out an amused huff, but his response is sincere, “So you miss feeling accepted.”

“Probably. But that’s okay. Life moves on, we find new jobs, and we make new friends—hey, have you ever thought about joining a band?”

They share a quiet giggle.

“I can’t say that I have,” Jeonghan replies playfully. “But maybe someday you can play a song for me.”

“Only if you show me your favorite candles.”

“Deal.”

They walk another dozen steps or so before Joshua glances at his watch, “We should probably head back.”

“Am I boring you?” Jeonghan asks, mostly kidding.

“Quite the opposite,” Joshua beams. “It’s just getting late.”

“Oh. Do you have work in the morning?”

“No, but you probably do, just based on how Soonyoung describes your schedule,” Joshua says.

Jeonghan groans humorously, “You’re right.”

They turn around, headed back in the direction of the restaurant.

Jeonghan takes a deep breath, letting the scents of the river, grassy lawns, manicured shrubs, and vanilla wash over him, “So, what’s your favorite song to play?”

“Wonderwall. Kidding. You know the song Sunday Morning?”

The walk back, punctuated by quiet laughter and comfortable conversation, feels too short in a good way, like even if time is slipping through Jeonghan’s fingers, he still tries to cling to it, to savor the moments that etch into his memories like moonlight and wildflowers.

Maybe in another lifetime, we could’ve been together.

They find Wonwoo and Mingyu near the restaurant, talking on a bench facing the river.

“Looks like you didn’t get far,” Jeonghan teases fondly.

Wonwoo chuckles, “We really didn’t. Ready to go?”

His question is directed at Joshua, who nods, “Ready when you are.”

They must have driven together.

“Are you sure you’re okay to drive? It’s late,” Mingyu says.

“I’m fine, stop worrying.”

“It’s my job to worry about you,” Mingyu coos, pressing a playful kiss to Wonwoo’s temple.

The omega scrunches his nose but doesn’t move away, the scent of maple permeating through the night air. Wonwoo huffs, “No, your job is to do whatever Jeonghan tells you.”

Mingyu laughs, getting up from the bench and offering Wonwoo a hand. He takes it.

“Can’t I do both?” the alpha asks coyly.

“Maybe,” Wonwoo lets go of Mingyu’s hand and steps toward Joshua. He smirks, “Goodnight, loverboy.”

“Oh my god.”

Wonwoo laughs, then looks at Jeonghan, “See you around.”

Jeonghan hums a polite acknowledgement, about to excuse himself to start the long walk home, but a hand touches his elbow, gentle as always.

“Bye Jeonghan,” Joshua says. “It was nice seeing you again.”

“Don’t be a stranger,” Jeonghan replies in place of the words he wants to say and the questions he wants to ask.

“I’ll come visit soon. I owe you a song, after all,” Joshua winks, then laughs softly.

It’s a sound that leaves Jeonghan’s cheeks warm and coaxes out a small yet genuine smile.

“I’ll look forward to it.”

“Have a good night.”

“You too.”

Joshua and Wonwoo walk away, leaving Mingyu and Jeonghan on the edge of the path by the river.

Mingyu lets out a low whistle, smirking, “You and Joshua seem to get along well.”

“We do,” Jeonghan says, keeping his expression and scent neutral. 

Mingyu giggles, pulling Jeonghan into a playful hug, “Ah! Look at you, making new friends. I’m so proud.”

“What? I make friends all the time.”

The alpha pulls away to hold Jeonghan at arm’s length, deadpanning, “Really? Name three.”

“You, Vernon, and Soonyoung.”

“That was like five years ago.”

“Jihoon, Wonwoo, and Joshua.”

“Joshua doesn’t count.”

“Why not?”

“Because I said so,” Mingyu fights a grin and loses.

“If you keep disqualifying my answers, of course I can’t name three.”

“Exactly.”

Jeonghan clicks his tongue in mock frustration, but breaks and laughs, affectionately pinching Mingyu’s cheek, “Since when did you get so bold?”

“Since always.”

They share a teasing smile and a smothered giggle as Mingyu lets him go.

“Alright,” Jeonghan says, taking a deep breath and letting it out as a sigh. “I should get going.”

“Want me to walk you to your car?”

“I walked here, but thank you for offering—”

“Absolutely not. I’m driving you home.”

“You don’t have to.”

“Don’t even start with that. C’mon. I’m parked just over there.”

“Mingyu?”

“Yeah?”

“Thank you.”

The ride home is filled with upbeat music, comfortable conversation, and colorful city lights. It’s a pleasant end to an interesting evening. 

Beneath Mingyu’s fresh coffee scent, Jeonghan can still find hints of vanilla.

Over the next few days, whenever Jihoon or Wonwoo stops by the candle shop during their break, Joshua joins them. The visits are brief but enjoyable and filled with laughter, teasing banter, and soft smiles that feel like sharing a blush-warm secret. Jeonghan starts to look forward to Joshua’s visits, watching the door and waiting for any trace of familiar vanilla.

And yet, one detail immediately razes even the most optimistic of his hopes.

The scent of an ocean breeze follows Joshua around no matter the day or the clothes he’s wearing. Jeonghan has started to suspect the alpha lives with him. 

He can’t help but wonder what Joshua’s alpha is like. Are they kind? Are they clever? Are they funny? Strong? Attractive? 

Are they mated?

Between smalltalk and bites of lunch, Jeonghan steals subtle glances, searching for a claiming mark. He finds none, but that doesn’t mean anything except a lack of substantial evidence. Joshua doesn’t mention the alpha either, favoring talking about candle shop foot traffic, music, and even the weather when there’s a lull in the conversation with the rest of their friends.

Jeonghan resigns himself to enjoy this for what it is, friendship, even if that’s all it will ever be.

“Done for the day?” Jeonghan asks as Vernon carefully sets a box of candles on the countertop.

“You’re the boss. Am I done?” Vernon replies humorously.

“Technically, your shift is over in thirty minutes, but if you’ve finished these then I don’t see why you can’t leave early.”

“Sweet. I’ll put these out and then head home. Thanks,” the young alpha nods his appreciation.

Jeonghan hums an acknowledgement, smiling to himself as he sorts the receipts from the day’s transactions. A few seconds pass in evening-gold, pastel-painted quiet.

“You never told me how the game went.”

“The game?”

“Last week.”

“Oh, I was right. It was volleyball.”

Jeonghan laughs, “I meant how things went with Seungkwan.”

Vernon winces, chuckling, his campfire scent sharpening for a moment with unease, “I’ve been trying not to bring it up, especially around Soonyoung.”

“Why?” Jeonghan asks, immediately serious, his omega ready to comfort while protectiveness flares in the human part of him. “What happened?”

“Nothing happened.”

Jeonghan stares at him incredulously, waiting.

Vernon scrunches his nose, “I mean, we had a great time. Seungkwan’s team won. We held hands. I took him home.”

“Seems like a successful date to me. Why wouldn’t you want Soonyoung to know?”

“He’d probably ask if we’re boyfriends yet or something.”

Jeonghan fights the urge to immediately ask the same question, instead letting out a sympathetic sigh, “He does it because he wants you to be happy.”

“I know,” Vernon says, setting out the last of the candles from the box to fill in the display. “But I am happy. Seungkwan likes hanging out with me. I like him. We don’t…have to put a label on it, do we?”

For a moment, Jeonghan can’t find the words he wants to say.

Vernon is always practical, factual in his communication. He hardly ever asks questions, and when he does, they’re never questions like this. Unsure. Worried. Hurt.

Jeonghan offers him a sympathetic smile, “You don’t have to do anything that doesn’t fit your relationship. As long as you care about each other, that’s what matters.”

“I guess.”

“You guess?”

“We kissed.”

“Oh?” Jeonghan asks to temper his instinctive excitement. Something about this doesn’t seem celebratory.

“It’s the first time we…yeah.”

“The first time? I thought you spend his heats together.”

“We do, but not like that. We mostly cuddle and watch movies and sleep.”

“That sounds pleasant.”

“It is, but I also know it’s not how most alphas take care of omegas during their heats.”

“Says who?”

“Soonyoung and Mingyu.”

Jeonghan huffs a soft laugh, “Don’t listen to those knotheads. Just because they’re sexually intimate with Jihoon and Wonwoo doesn’t mean that’s how you have to be with Seungkwan. Every omega is unique, so we all need different things. As long as you’re giving your omega what they need, there’s no right way to be an alpha.”

Something about those words settles over Jeonghan, heavy like a reluctant realization.

So why is there a right way to be an omega?

Vernon blushes, something he almost never does, “But what if I want to be, ah…intimate with him?”

“You already are.”

“You know what I mean,” the alpha groans, laughing in embarrassment. 

Jeonghan finds it endearing. He offers his friend a smile, “If you want something about your relationship to change, you should probably talk to Seungkwan about it. I mean, did he like kissing you?”

Vernon’s blush gets deeper, the tips of his ears getting pink, “I think so.”

“You think?”

“It’s not like I can read his mind,” the alpha huffs a sheepish laugh. 

“What did his scent tell you?”

“I don’t know.”

“Well, what did he smell like?”

“He just…smelled like Seungkwan.”

“You alphas and your refusal to read into scents,” Jeonghan tsks affectionately. “What am I gonna do with you?”

Vernon makes a face but doesn’t argue. 

“Okay, next question, what did he say afterward?”

“It’s like the whole boyfriends thing, we didn’t really talk about it.”

“You haven’t?”

“No. It’s why I haven’t brought any of it up to Soonyoung.”

“Ah,” Jeonghan nods. Slowly, he leans against the counter. “Want some sage advice?”

“Please.”

“Talk to him.”

Vernon pouts, “That’s what everyone keeps saying.”

“Because we mean it,” Jeonghan retorts playfully. “Sit down and have a heart to heart.”

“Seungkwan’s not like that.”

“Then just do what you do best and ask directly—”

A knock on the glass door draws their startled attention.

“Can’t people read the closed sign?” Vernon grumbles. 

Jeonghan attempts to temper the fondness in his smile and the flutter in his heart as he walks around the counter, “This person is excused.”

He unlocks the door to welcome a rush of warm evening air and the familiar scent of vanilla. 

“What do you want? We’re closed,” he teases. 

Joshua takes a breath in through his teeth, a bad attempt to hide his own smile, “Darn. Guess I’ll just come back tomorrow.”

They watch each other for a moment before sharing a laugh. 

Jeonghan can’t help but drink in the way the evening sun plays on Joshua’s skin, a beautiful shade of gold. He moves aside to let his friend into the shop. It’s only then that he notices the acoustic guitar resting against his back.

“So I thought we could—oh. Hello,” Joshua pauses a few steps in, surprise crinkling through his scent. 

“Hello,” Vernon replies, awkward but not uneasy. His campfire scent remains unaffected. 

“Vernon, this is Joshua. Joshua, Vernon,” Jeonghan gestures between them. 

The omega relaxes easily, “Right, the one that couldn’t make it to dinner. Wonwoo mentioned you.”

“Cool, nice to meet you.” They exchange a few pleasantries before Vernon jabs a thumb over his shoulder, “I’m gonna get going. Seungkwan’s waiting for me.”

“Talk to him,” Jeonghan levels him with a meaningful glare. 

The alpha just gives him a humorously half-cringed smile before retreating to the back offices. 

“Bye,” Joshua calls out amicably, then turns to Jeonghan, whispering. “Was I interrupting?”

“Don’t worry about it,” Jeonghan waves off his companion’s concern. Though he does make a mental note to follow up on that conversation, considering Vernon probably won’t bring it up of his own accord. Jeonghan locks the door and walks back across the shop to return to his receipts, asking, “So what brings you by?”

“I owe you a song, remember?” Joshua wiggles his eyebrows, then laughs softly. “I figured after business hours is better than serenading you in front of customers.”

“Serenading? Does that mean there’s going to be singing too?” Jeonghan teases as he picks up another receipt. Not that he’s actually looking at it. It’s just giving him something to pretend to focus on while Joshua pulls his guitar off of his back.

“Can’t promise I’ll be any good at it.”

Jeonghan shrugs, “I wouldn’t complain. The show is free.”

“Since when? I was gonna charge you by the strum.”

They share a quiet giggle.

Joshua continues almost shyly, “Really though, I thought I’d just stop by and keep you company while you close up and stuff. If you want.”

“You’re more than welcome to stay,” Jeonghan offers him a smile. “Let me go grab you a chair.”

Joshua settles into a corner of the small shop as Jeonghan heads back to the counter. He’s keenly aware of the other omega, of the creek of the office chair, of the contented sigh he lets out, and of the quiet, hollow wooden sounds of his instrument. Joshua spends a few minutes tuning his guitar, something he does by ear while Jeonghan attempts to sort receipts and count the money in the register.

And then he starts to play.

Soft music fills the space between them, notes like the morning sun and a summer breeze slow dancing around the shop until every corner hums with something comfortingly bright and indescribably nostalgic. 

Jeonghan loses count of the money in his hands as he listens.

Joshua had said he used to play for a living. Jeonghan shouldn’t be surprised. 

Though, maybe “surprised” isn’t the right word.

He sets the thought aside in favor of recounting the money. He jots down a few numbers and notes on a clipboard, trying to focus, but it is so painfully easy to get lost in the music, in the feeling of perfectly blue skies and endless roads.

And then Jeonghan makes the mistake of looking at Joshua.

The omega seems relaxed, his head nodding subtly in time to the leisurely melody, his fingers moving along the strings, easy as breathing. Joshua glances up, catching Jeonghan’s gaze, and smiles.

I could fall in love with you.

The realization settles over Jeonghan, whimsical like evening fireflies and gentle like the sound of an acoustic guitar. 

Gentle like Joshua.

“Sorry. Am I distracting you?” he asks, his fingers coming to a natural stop on the strings.

Jeonghan shakes his head, “No. I’m just admiring how well you play. It’s obvious you put a lot of time and effort into this.”

Joshua’s smile brightens, “Some people call it talent. I call it years of practice.”

“Years well-spent.”

“Thank you.”

“Of course. I…” Jeonghan trails off, unsure.

Joshua hums, an encouragement to continue.

“I appreciate you coming here,” Jeonghan says quietly. “It’s nice to not be alone.”

“Are you usually by yourself?”

“After hours, most of the time.”

Joshua watches him for a moment before responding, kindness in his smile, “Well, if you ever want someone to keep you company, just let me know.”

“It’d be kind of hard, considering I don’t have your number,” Jeonghan says. He picks up one of his business cards from its holder on the counter and finds a pen sitting near the register.

“We should fix that then.” His companion sits up, patting his pockets. “Well, this is embarrassing. I think I left my phone at work. Do you, ah, have a piece of paper?”

“Here,” Jeonghan says, offering the business card with his phone number now written in a careful script. “You can text me later.”

Joshua takes the card, relief in his smile, “Thanks. I promise I will.”

“No rush. Do you often leave your phone behind?” Jeonghan teases because Joshua doesn’t seem like the kind of person who would lie to save face. 

“Too often. It’s awful. You’d think I’d have learned my lesson by now,” Joshua laughs. 

Jeonghan hums in both amusement and acknowledgement, then asks, “Have you eaten yet?”

“No. I came straight from the music store.”

“I still have a few things to do here. Want to go pick something up for us? I’ll pay.”

“You sure?”

“Call it…a tip for your beautiful music.”

Joshua takes the money Jeonghan offers him and as the other omega sets his guitar aside, they quickly agree on a restaurant. 

“I’ll be back in a few minutes.”

“Maybe you should get your phone while you’re out, too,” Jeonghan replies playfully.

Joshua grins, affectionate and mischievous, “You’re just full of good ideas, aren’t you.”

Jeonghan’s omega preens. He tries to ignore it, tamping down the flutter in his chest as he replies, “That’s why I’m the boss.”

They share a laugh and Joshua waves as he leaves.

Jeonghan turns back to the register, now left in the lonely silence of the shop. He sighs, aching, and recounts the bills again.

It only takes twenty minutes for Joshua to return. With him, he brings fragrant food, bright laughter, and his phone. They make light conversation as they eat, styrofoam containers on the countertop between them.

Instead of business and music, they talk about old hobbies and where they grew up, topics that seem more emotionally intimate than usual. Joshua still doesn’t bring up his alpha, and Jeonghan, despite knowing it’s selfish, is grateful for it. 

After dinner, Joshua returns to his chair to continue playing his guitar while Jeonghan finishes his daily tasks. It’s comfortable, more normal than it probably should feel, like the middle of a friendship and not the beginning.

Maybe that’s why I like him so much, Jeonghan ponders as he wipes down the countertops. Joshua feels like the best part of forever.

He glances at the other omega, a person made of autumn poetry peacefully playing a summer melody that feels like shade-dappled picnics and slow lakeside kisses. Vanilla laces through the air, a fond whisper amidst the dozens of other subtle scents. Real amidst artificial. 

It’s as Jeonghan is putting away his cleaning supplies that the song comes to a pleasant conclusion and Joshua asks, “So which one is your favorite?”

“Of what?”

“The candles. You never told me.”

Jeonghan glances around at the jars that surround them, past labels that promise fruits and florals and bakery goods. He walks over to one of the displays. To his surprise, Joshua sets the guitar aside and follows. 

The other omega stops a polite distance away, watching curiously. 

“This one,” Jeonghan says, picking up. The label is a pale, pretty blue. The script font on the front reads “Fresh Laundry.” He offers it to Joshua, who takes a deep breath. “It sells the best.”

Joshua laughs, setting the candle down and facing the label out, “I didn’t ask you that.”

“But technically, it is my favorite. It helps me stay in business.”

They share a giggle and Joshua nudges Jeonghan playfully with his elbow, “Let me rephrase the question then. Which scent do you like the most?”

Yours. 

Jeonghan flusters and clears his throat, nodding at another display. He picks up a candle and offers it to his companion. 

“Cabin Camping,” Joshua reads aloud. Opening it, he takes another deep breath and smiles. “This is nice. Kinda smells familiar.”

Notes of wood, coffee, and campfire. 

“It does, doesn’t it,” Jeonghan replies, fondness settling in his heart.

“Can I buy one?”

“Are you just asking because I said it was my favorite?” Jeonghan teases. It’s at this point he realizes that they’re closer than they were before, just a touch, but enough that Jeonghan feels warm with their proximity. 

Joshua smirks, “And if I am?”

“Be careful, or I might start to think you’re flirting with me.”

Joshua laughs, his cheeks dusting pink, “I mean, it’s a nice scent. Maybe I just want—”

In the far corner of the store, his phone rings. 

“Go answer that. I’ll put this in a bag for you,” Jeonghan chuckles and retreats behind the counter. 

Why did I say that? What if I made him uncomfortable?

Jeonghan searches his memory, trying to recall any changes in Joshua’s scent, but he can’t. His heartbeat feels too loud.

Joshua picks up his phone and rolls his eyes affectionately as he holds it to his ear, “Hey. Yes, I’m alive. Stop worrying.”

Jeonghan freezes, listening. 

“I’ll be home soon,” the other omega assures as he pulls his wallet from his pocket. 

It’s his alpha. 

Joshua starts putting out calming pheromones, biologically subconscious, meant for someone who isn’t present. 

“There’s leftovers in the fridge. Just eat those…”

Jeonghan shakes his head to clear it and goes back to wrapping up the candle. His movements feel jagged and fragile like thin, cracking glass. 

What was I thinking? 

“Okay. See you soon,” Joshua laughs fondly and ends the call. He sets his phone aside and walks over to the counter. “Sorry about that. Anyway, how much do I owe you?”

They exchange money for a patterned paper bag and Jeonghan tries not to let the dismay show in his smile.

“Heading home?”

“Yeah. There’s a pouty alpha waiting for me,” Joshua laughs.

Jeonghan had expected the world to still, for time to come to a whispered halt with the revelation. But neither happens. The city continues to move outside and time slips past, sharp and cold in his chest. 

He fights the distressed souring of his scent, the too-sweet smell of rotting pumpkin. 

If he notices, he’ll probably ask. 

“Alright, then let’s get you out of here,” Jeonghan forces a chuckle, leading the way to the door. 

Joshua grabs his phone and picks up his guitar, resting it comfortably against his back, then joins Jeonghan at the exit. The other omega seems unchanged, his smile just as warm and his tone just as soft, “I’ll text you?”

What would his alpha think?

“Sure. Let me know when you get home,” Jeonghan replies, averting his gaze because they’re standing so close and his omega wants. It yearns for their closeness, for acceptance, for Joshua.

“Don’t stay too late, okay?”

“Okay.”

“Promise?” Joshua lifts a hand and places it gently on Jeonghan’s head.

It’s a gesture of affection, one that leaves Jeonghan’s omega aching.

“I promise.”

“Good,” Joshua says, his fingers brushing the nape of Jeonghan’s neck, just the ghost of a touch, probably an accident, before he steps away. “I’ll see you around!”

Jeonghan offers a small smile and a wave, then watches as Joshua disappears in the sparse sidewalk crowd.

The door closes, the lights turn off, and Jeonghan finds himself in the inventory room amidst shelves full of assorted candles and the dim illumination of his phone screen. He often finds himself here after a long day or during his heats. 

Usually, the scents are familiar and comforting, but as Jeonghan sits with his back to the wall in the almost-darkness of the small room, they only smell artificial.

He hugs his knees to his chest, trying to calm his fraying nerves as his omega wails in anguish.

Jeonghan can still smell Joshua’s subtle vanilla. It lingers in his clothes and in his hair, and on his neck where Joshua’s fingers had brushed, almost lightly scenting him but not quite. 

With a steadying breath, Jeonghan searches for the scent of the ocean, an anchor to the truth that Joshua can be nothing more than a friend, that he has an alpha, and that Jeonghan is breaking his own heart.

When will I learn?

He can’t help but recall his many conversations with Soonyoung, and how his friend always tells him to be true to himself.

But it’s so easy for him to say that.

Soonyoung is an alpha attracted to omegas. He’s normal. He’s happy.

Maybe I should just find an alpha I can tolerate. One that will treat me well.

It would solve Jeonghan’s harassment problems, and maybe someday he could learn to be happy too, learn to love this hypothetical alpha, learn to take a knot—

The thought makes his skin prickle, his stomach twisting as he imagines the discomfort. Even if Jeonghan has taken and could take a knot, objectively, it’s not just about the physicality of it. He thinks back to the last heat he spent with an alpha, how alone he felt while they were together, how his nest didn’t even feel like his own. Could he do that for the rest of his life?

His phone buzzes, coaxing Jeonghan out of his sharp-clawed thoughts.

Unknown: Hi! This is Joshua :D just got home

Jeonghan: Hi ^-^ Glad to hear it

Joshua: Did you leave yet

Jeonghan: Almost

Joshua: Lmao you promised

Jeonghan: I know I know hahaha
Jeonghan: Leaving now

He sets his phone aside, then gently reaches for one of the candle jars. The familiar scent of Cabin Camping washes over him as he takes a steadying breath. The scents of his friends.

If this is all I will ever have, then it will be enough.

It has to be.

Soonyoung is right.

Even if I’m broken, this is who I am.

Three weeks, approximately. 

Jeonghan draws faint circles around the numbers in a block of days on the office calendar (themed with puppies and kittens, another holiday gift from Mingyu). Of course, he can’t tell exactly when his heat will be, but he’s always been fairly regular.

Tucking the pencil behind his ear, Jeonghan sighs.

Soonyoung will be mad at him, but there’s no point in missing work. He’ll take some pain medication and stay in the back unless someone asks for a manager, just like he does every heat cycle.

“Are you done with these?” Mingyu calls down the short hallway.

“With what?” Jeonghan asks, following his voice.

“These,” Mingyu gestures at the bottles lined up on the table, remnants of the new forest collection. “Vernon and I need the table to fill candles.”

“Oh, you can put them anywhere.”

It doesn’t matter. Most of them aren’t what I want anyway.

“How’s that going?” Mingyu asks amicably as he carefully sets the bottles aside.

“Fine.”

Mingyu huffs a laugh, “How many of them are actually done?”

“Four.”

“Out of how many?”

“I wanted seven, but it might just have to be five.”

“That hard, huh?” Mingyu teases. The alpha’s coffee scent changes slightly, soothing, like he can sense Jeonghan’s misery.

Jeonghan nods, “It’s more difficult than I thought it would be, and I don’t know why.”

“It’s probably like any other art block,” Mingyu says optimistically. “You just gotta wait for the right thing to inspire you. Or be stubborn and muscle through it.”

“I don’t think I’m very stubborn.”

“Nah, but you’re persistent,” Vernon says as he walks into the room carrying a heating plate.

“You don’t even know what we’re talking about,” Mingyu pouts.

The younger alpha shrugs humorously, “I didn’t need context for that.”

“Are you guys pouring candles?” Soonyoung asks, appearing in the doorway.

“Yeah,” Vernon replies before Mingyu or Jeonghan can object.

“Can I help?”

Jeonghan chuckles, “No, not after what happened last time.”

“But that was only once.”

“No ‘buts,’” Mingyu scolds. They start bickering, and Mingyu playfully chases Soonyoung out of the room as the latter cackles.

Jeonghan decides not to worry about them.

They’ll sort it out.

Instead he carries over the wax melting pot, asking casually, “Did you talk to Seungkwan?”

Vernon stands up from plugging in the heating plate. He dusts his hands off and shrugs, “Not yet.”

“Didn’t you see him last night?”

“Yeah, but he was stressed from work and I didn’t wanna make it worse.”

“That’s fair. Just don’t put it off for too long. He’s important to you.”

“I know.”

Their conversation comes to a swift end as Mingyu and Soonyoung return, both carrying heavy bags of wax pellets for melting.

“Soonyoung,” Jeonghan warns, mostly teasing.

“I won’t!”

“I’m just making him hold stuff, don’t worry,” Mingyu smiles innocently. “I remember what happened.”

“It wasn’t even that bad,” Soonyoung complains.

Jeonghan raises an eyebrow.

“I’ll be careful. I promise. Please let me help?”

“Fine, but only as long as I’m here to supervise,” Jeonghan concedes. There’s still a half an hour until the store opens. They have time.

Team building exercises, or something like that.

Soonyoung immediately perks up, “Awesome! I’ll go grab the restock list!”

The four of them set about candle making, a tedious but enjoyable part of the job. Vernon puts on music, Mingyu does most of the heavy lifting, Soonyoung is allowed to stick wicks in empty jars, and Jeonghan wonders whether or not he should tell his friends about what happened with Joshua.

They hadn’t texted since the previous night when Jeonghan finally got home to his empty apartment and they exchanged polite goodnight messages. Though, by the fact that Joshua leaves his phone lying around, Jeonghan suspects the other omega isn’t an avid texter.

Sore like a splinter, the guilt pricks at Jeonghan’s conscience.

It would be good to talk to his friends, but what would he even say?

Jeonghan already knows his feelings are misplaced. Joshua has an alpha. Joshua is taken, even if he isn’t claimed. And if Jeonghan acted on his feelings, he would be in the wrong. His friends would say just as much, though maybe in kinder words.

Part of him also fears what they would think of him, having these thoughts about another alpha’s omega.

He decides to stay quiet about it, glad for the thick scents of candle making that mask his worries.

He already knows what his friends would say, anyway.

My heart can want what it wants, but I can’t encourage anything.

Easier said than done. 

Jeonghan’s omega mourns.

Jeonghan does too.

Between the four of them, they finish most of the candle pouring process and Jeonghan leaves to open the storefront. He lets Soonyoung stay behind to help with the last few. What could possibly go wrong? Chuckling to himself, he pulls out his keys to unlock the door and startles at the figure in front of the glass.

He recognizes her immediately, not by name but rather by context.

She’s one of the group of wealthy young women who have been frequenting the shop every few days to flirt with Mingyu. Her friends stand a few steps away, all of them waiting.

“Good morning,” he greets politely, stepping aside to let them in. “Welcome back.”

They return his greeting and glance around. It’s obvious what (who) they’re looking for, but they at least have the decency to pretend to browse.

“Is the handsome alpha here?” one of the women eventually asks, giggling with her friends.

“Unfortunately, he called out today,” Jeonghan lies, his smile apologetic.

“Oh, that’s a shame,” the women collectively pout. They end up buying a few candles before leaving. 

Jeonghan idly wonders what they do with all of them, whether they become gifts or trash. No one could burn as many candles as they buy.

A few minutes later, Mingyu joins Jeonghan in the shop.

“We’re all done,” he reports brightly.

“Good. Thank you,” Jeonghan replies. He continues after a moment, “Your fan club was here.”

“Who?”

“Those women.”

“Oh,” Mingyu huffs in amusement.

“Do they make you uncomfortable? I can tell them to leave.”

“Nah. They’re harmless and it’s good business,” the alpha shrugs, then wiggles his eyebrows. “With all the extra income, maybe my boss will give me a raise.”

“Hmm. Hard maybe,” Jeonghan teases.

They share a laugh and Mingyu nods back toward the offices, “Alright, I have some online orders to pack. Holler if you need something.”

“Perfect, I’ve been practicing my hollering.”

“Thank god. You need all the practice you can get.”

Jeonghan smacks Mingyu’s shoulder lightly, playfully, “Get back to work.”

“Yes sir,” the alpha mock salutes, then giggles as he leaves.

Later that afternoon, Jihoon and Joshua visit for lunch. Jeonghan is thankful for a sudden influx of shoppers that prevents him from participating in any meaningful conversation. Whatever feelings he should be confronting are easily set aside in favor of attentive customer service.

Even so, his omega’s attention is frequently tugged back to Joshua. All it takes is a soft laugh or a hint of vanilla in the crowd. Jeonghan feels helpless against it, but he stays resolute, determined to do the right thing and ignore his feelings.

Jihoon is the one who checks his watch and says they have to get back to work. Joshua follows him to the door. At the threshold, he pauses and catches Jeonghan’s gaze, offering him a small smile and a wave.

Jeonghan returns the smile, even if it hurts.

It’ll only hurt for a little while, he assures himself. And then we can be friends. Just friends. It’s only lunch and smalltalk. I can do this.

But it isn’t just lunch and smalltalk.

It wouldn’t be that easy.

Jeonghan’s phone buzzes in his pocket. He checks it as soon as there is an ebb in the flow of customers.

Joshua: Sorry we had to go :(

Jeonghan: Aren’t you supposed to be working? Hahaha

Joshua: Maybe lol but I missed talking to you

He means it platonically.

It’s what Jeonghan tells himself, even if the flutter in his heart disagrees. His scent should be sweet with the thrill of it, but it’s balanced by a grim reminder.

A young man approaches the counter with a candle named Ocean Breeze.

Just like Joshua’s alpha.

After paying, the young man leaves with the candle and a smile.

Jeonghan: I’m still glad you stopped by ^-^

Joshua: Are you busy tonight?

Jeonghan: Not any more or less than normal lmao

Joshua: Mind if I stop by? I’ll bring dinner this time :)

Maybe his judgment is momentarily clouded by loneliness. Maybe it’s a masochistic type of hope. Maybe it’s just his hubris believing he can be objective about this. 

Whatever it is, Jeonghan replies. 

Jeonghan: Sounds like a plan~

And so, like summer turning to autumn, it happens slowly at first, then all at once. Joshua starts to visit the shop daily, sometimes with Wonwoo and Jihoon, sometimes without them. After business hours, he often brings his guitar to keep Jeonghan company with quiet music and comfortable conversation. He even helps with a few tasks like dusting shelves and tidying up packaging supplies. Jeonghan offers to pay him for the effort. Joshua politely refuses, so Jeonghan buys their dinners just to spite him (to show his appreciation) and acquires a thrifted plush armchair to put in the corner of the store.

With the days that pass, things get easier.

It’s not that Jeonghan’s feelings dwindle, quite the opposite actually, but rather, the ache in his heart becomes familiar and bearable. His omega agrees. Anything is better than the emptiness of being alone.

But Joshua isn’t just “anything.” 

He’s kind, attentive, and speaks to Jeonghan with an emotional intimacy he’s never felt before. The more they get to know each other, the more they laugh, the more comfortable they feel, and the more Jeonghan wishes he wasn’t so broken.

A week and a half. Approximately.

Jeonghan doesn’t need to look at the calendar to know his heat is looming.

His omega feels more restless than usual, curiously tracking every scent that comes into the shop only to drop each of them with disinterest.

Late afternoon light streams through the windows when the door opens and Jeonghan’s omega perks up at the familiar hint of maple.

“Hi Wonwoo.”

“Hi Jeonghan,” the other omega greets him with a fond smile. “Mind if I hang out until Mingyu’s done?”

“Not at all. Just don’t break anything,” Jeonghan teases.

“Wouldn’t dream of it.”

They share a quiet laugh, then Wonwoo takes a seat in the armchair where Joshua usually sits to play guitar and pulls out his phone to pass the time. Jeonghan goes back to answering emails on his laptop that’s perched at the far end of the counter, out of the way.

For a few minutes, the shop is peaceful.

Then the door opens again.

“We’re back,” one of the young women sing-songs, pushing up a pair of chic sunglasses with a glossy red frame. She’s usually the most vocal of the group. “Is our favorite alpha here today?”

Jeonghan casts a subconscious glance at Wonwoo, then offers them a placating smile, “Unfortunately, he’s busy right now. But feel free to take a look around. Let me know if you have any questions.”

“Aw, c’mon,” Red Sunglasses coos, pouting. “We haven’t seen him in so long.”

“Yeah. Can’t you just tell him we’re here? What if he wants to say hi?” one of her friends asks.

“I can…see if he’s finished with his work,” Jeonghan replies carefully. “Hold on just a moment.”

He lets the door to the offices close between them, then mentally counts to twenty. Down the hall, he can hear Vernon’s music and Soonyoung’s voice. The alpha is yelling excitedly about something, but Jeonghan doesn’t listen long enough to decipher what it might be. He returns to the storefront.

“Sorry, it looks like he’s still busy—”

“Jeonghan?” The door opens and the smell of fresh coffee floods the shop. “Wonwoo’s going to be stopping by later. Oh! Hi Wonu.”

“Hey loverboy,” Wonwoo chuckles, looking up from his phone. He rises from the chair, but freezes when the group of women approach Mingyu first.

“There he is!”

“Well don’t you just look stunning.”

“We missed your smile.”

“Hi Mingyu, how are you today?” Red Sunglasses asks coyly.

“Great, thank you,” he replies brightly, sincerely, though his smile tightens with slight surprise. “How are you?”

“Better now that we got to see you,” Red Sunglasses replies.

Mingyu laughs awkwardly, “I appreciate the compliment. Well, if you ladies need anything, I’m sure Jeonghan would love to help you.”

He tries to sidestep the young woman, but she subtly puts herself between him and Wonwoo.

“Oh c’mon. We came all the way here.”

“Can’t you talk to us for just a moment?”

“Yeah. We’ll be out of your hair in no time.”

Jeonghan closes his laptop slowly, watching. He feels tense with alertness, ready to intervene as Mingyu, obviously uncomfortable but too nice to be direct, once again tries to step around Red Sunglasses.

“Don’t be like that,” she coos.

It all happens so fast.

The young woman reaches out. 

She catches Mingyu’s wrist. 

Jeonghan starts to speak. 

His words are cut short by a snarl.

“Don’t touch him,” Wonwoo growls, pulling Mingyu away from the group of young women and setting himself firmly between them. There’s anger burning in his dark eyes, protective more than aggressive.

“Excuse you,” Red Sunglasses scoffs. “We were only talking.”

“He doesn’t want to talk to you.”

“How would you know?”

Jeonghan finally finds the courage to walk over, putting a hand on Wonwoo’s shoulder. The other omega growls again, then his expression softens apologetically when their gazes meet. Jeonghan gestures behind the counter, his tone calm, “Let me handle this, okay?”

“But Jeonghan—” Mingyu starts to protest.

“I’ll take care of it.”

Mingyu gently tugs Wonwoo out of the storefront, but not before the omega shoots a scathing glare at the women. A couple of them take an instinctive step back.

Jeonghan spends the next few minutes soothing and apologizing, but also politely insisting that the women don’t come back in search of Mingyu. It’s his responsibility to protect his employees (friends), after all. They eventually leave, disgruntled and empty-handed, and Jeonghan decides to close the shop early. 

He finds Mingyu and Wonwoo in the back hallway, the omega with his face buried in the crook of Mingyu’s neck, the alpha with his arms wrapped tightly around Wonwoo, putting out calming pheromones. 

When Mingyu sees Jeonghan, he whispers something to Wonwoo, who nods and steps away, hugging himself loosely.

Mingyu speaks first, “I take full responsibility for what just happened.”

“You shouldn’t. It’s not your fault—”

“Well it’s not Wonwoo’s either. I should’ve told them to stop before it became a problem,” Mingyu says, speaking so fast he starts stumbling over his words.

Jeonghan shakes his head, “No, this is on me. I should’ve said something. They won’t be coming back, but on the off chance they do, I will deal with it.”

Mingyu’s expression softens, “You’re not mad?”

“Of course not,” Jeonghan replies gently. 

Wonwoo finally meets his gaze, “I’m sorry. I just…”

“I know. It’s okay,” Jeonghan offers him a reassuring smile. “Mingyu is too nice sometimes, and we have to stand up for him.”

Mingyu pouts, “What?”

“You are,” Wonwoo huffs a broken laugh. “You act all tough on the outside, but really, you’re a big softie.”

Mingyu lets out a grumble, but his cheeks dust pink and he pulls Wonwoo into a soothing hug, subtly scenting him, calming frayed nerves.

Jeonghan lets out a quiet sigh, “I’ll leave you both to it. But when you’re done, go home.”

“Thank you,” Mingyu gives him a grateful smile.

Jeonghan nods his response, then continues down the hall. Behind a closed door, he finds Vernon and Soonyoung having a mostly one-sided argument about the best restaurant in town amidst loud but pleasant music while they stick labels on the new batch of candles. Jeonghan tells them to go home early too, vaguely citing the incident and the need to work on his new candle collection in peace. Neither of them argue, but Soonyoung does scent Jeonghan before departing.

“For your safety,” Soonyoung claims. Jeonghan also suspects he’d picked up the stress in his scent.

Either way, it’s appreciated.

After they leave, Jeonghan surrounds himself with essential oils and his notes in an attempt to quiet his thoughts. 

Four out of seven.

Or five. 

He rubs his temples, then gets to work.

It doesn’t take long for his mind to drift away from the smell of moss and damp earth to contemplate what had happened with Mingyu and Wonwoo. Naturally, his thoughts work through the professional side of things first, worrying about lawsuits and complaints. But he dismisses those quickly. Jeonghan will defend what Wonwoo did. It never should have escalated to that point. He’s more upset with his own inaction than anything, but he’s also concerned for his friends. 

He resolves to have a longer conversation with Mingyu later, and check up on Wonwoo himself.

With that out of the way, he tries to focus on the task at hand.

After sniffing at the newest mix of essential oils, Jeonghan sets the bottle aside with a huff and crosses out that combination in his notes.

Back to the drawing board.

And back to thinking about what Wonwoo had done.

Jeonghan has never seen an omega snarl like that before.

He isn’t naive enough to think that omegas can’t defend their partners. Of course they can. He’s just never seen it. Jeonghan tries to picture himself doing something similar, and in the privacy of his aloneness, he tries to growl. He doesn’t get past a low rumble in his chest before he embarrasses himself and stops.

“Oh my god,” he whispers, laughing as he hides his face in his hands, thankful that no one is around to hear him. He starts moving bottles around to keep himself busy.

Is it an instinctive thing? Jeonghan muses. I wonder if Wonwoo knew he was going to do it before he actually growled.

Can all omegas do that?

Maybe. But if all omegas can growl, that means Joshua can too.

Jeonghan’s hands still as he contemplates this for a moment, but he quickly sets the thought aside when his phone buzzes on the table nearby.

Joshua: Everything okay?

Jeonghan: Yes. Why?

Joshua: Store’s closed early

Jeonghan: Oh. It’s a long story

Joshua: I’ve got time

It occurs to Jeonghan then that there’s only one way Joshua could know the shop is closed. Jeonghan’s heartbeat stutters. He pockets his phone before heading to the storefront. Joshua looks up as the door opens.

“Hi,” Jeonghan greets him, shy like Joshua might be able to tell what he’d been thinking about.

“Hi,” Joshua says, quiet like gentle relief after a long stressful day. Jeonghan wonders if he had a difficult shift too.

There’s a beat of silence as they both assess one another, searching eyes and reading expressions.

Something about Joshua is different, but Jeonghan can’t quite pinpoint it. 

He doesn’t have his guitar.

Offering a warm smile, Jeonghan steps aside and gestures for Joshua to come in, “I hope you don’t mind, but we’ll be in the offices today. I was working on the new collection.”

“Fancy. I get to see behind the curtain?”

“Only because I like you,” Jeonghan teases. The weight of his own words is not lost on him, but Joshua doesn’t need to know that.

“Thank goodness. I was scared you were just hanging out with me for the good music.”

They share a laugh as Jeonghan leads the way behind the counter. He’s about to make a quip about giving a tour, but one glance at Joshua makes him pause. 

“Are you okay?”

Joshua blinks at him with mild surprise, “Me?”

“You look worried.”

“I mean, I am. You said something happened and I just…do you want to talk about it?”

“How much do you want to know?”

“Whatever you want to tell me.”

They’re standing in the same spot in the hallway where Mingyu and Wonwoo had stood just a couple hours ago. 

Jeonghan suddenly feels conflicted. He hadn’t been affected in the same way as his friends. Wonwoo was probably angry and overwhelmed. Mingyu was probably uncomfortable from the women’s attention and concerned for his omega. Jeonghan simply had to do the right thing and stand up for them. He’s just…never been good at having authority in stressful situations.

Maybe it’s the omega in him.

But isn’t that a stereotype?

Then, maybe it’s just him.

Jeonghan takes a deep breath to collect his thoughts, then tells Joshua what happened. It’s somewhat difficult to explain aloud, but it’s nice to be able to confide in someone completely. Or, almost completely. Jeonghan leaves one part of the story out.

“I’m sorry that happened,” Joshua soothes, his vanilla scent surrounding them like a comforting embrace. Jeonghan longs to find its source in the crook of Joshua’s neck, to find it and hide there, safe. “But you can’t blame yourself.”

“I should’ve done something sooner.”

“Or, think of it this way. You did the best you could in a bad situation,” Joshua says. “And isn’t that all anyone can ask for?”

“I guess.”

“Jeonghan.” The way he says Jeonghan’s name is gentle, like it’s something precious. “Mingyu and Wonwoo are okay. Those women aren’t pressing charges. You did a good job.”

Joshua lifts a hand and places it on Jeonghan’s head. It’s a gesture that’s brief yet affectionate and grounding. It settles something inside of Jeonghan that he hadn’t known was restless.

“Thank you.”

“I’m only telling the truth,” Joshua smiles.

“Still, I appreciate it.”

“Anytime. Now, you were making some candles before I barged in here?”

Jeonghan laughs quietly, nodding toward one of the office rooms, “Yes, I was. This way.”

Mood improved and weight on his shoulders lightened, he pulls another chair up to the table that’s laden with essential oils and a definite lack of direction.

“Wow. This is a lot,” Joshua says. He takes the offered seat and looks over the table's contents curiously.

“It is,” Jeonghan nods, sitting down opposite his friend.

“Am I gonna be distracting?”

“No. The company will be nice. Maybe an unbiased second opinion will be nice too,” Jeonghan chuckles.

Joshua gives him a soft smile, “Forest themed, right?”

“Right.”

“Okay, what do you have so far?”

Jeonghan finds the bottles with the scents he decided to keep and offers them to Joshua one by one. Petrichor. Forest Canopy. Misty Lakeside. Shady Undergrowth.

“This one’s my favorite,” Joshua says, spinning the bottle so he can see the temporary label. “Misty Lakeside. How mysterious. It smells like somewhere you might go looking for Bigfoot.”

They share a quiet giggle.

The other omega continues, “I don’t see why you’re worried about this. All of these are pretty great.”

“Thank you, but that’s the problem. I’m picky.”

“Hmm. Yeah. You do seem like a picky person,” Joshua teases.

Jeonghan scrunches his nose to hide his smile.

“Kidding.”

“Sure.”

Joshua laughs, reaching across the table to give Jeonghan’s hand a small squeeze. Maybe it’s the impending heat, but Jeonghan feels pleasantly light-headed from the touch, Joshua’s vanilla scent clouding his thoughts and mixing with his own earthy pumpkin.

“So you have four done, but you’re uninspired or…?” Joshua prompts, placing his hands safely back in his lap.

“Sort of. It’s more like whatever I mix isn’t working.”

“Give me an example.”

Jeonghan slides another bottle across the table, “I was thinking about a forest clearing when I made this.”

Joshua gives it a test sniff, then hums, “It’s wildflowers and…kinda citrusy?”

“Lemongrass. I’m swapping it out for the next try.”

“Oh. Poor grass.”

Jeonghan chuckles, “It’s fine. It just doesn’t fit here. There’s also this one. I was thinking ‘Evening Woods.’”

“Musky.”

“It’s missing something green.”

“I can see that. Or, smell it.”

Minutes easily slip into hours punctuated with bright laughter and productive conversation. Joshua is as honest as he is kind, and he helps Jeonghan sort through the tangle of his thoughts and the myriad of scents.

Jeonghan only notices the time when he starts to feel hungry.

“Want to take a break and eat dinner? I’ll pay,” Jeonghan offers, looking up from his notes.

Joshua takes a breath in through his teeth, “Usually I’d say yes, but I think I have to head home soon.”

“Oh…” Jeonghan tries to hide his disappointment in humor, “Is a pouty alpha waiting for you?”

“No,” his companion replies, amused. “I’m just a little tired.”

“Work–? Wait, you were here earlier than usual,” Jeonghan says as he realizes it.

Joshua shrugs sheepishly, “Yeah, I took a personal day.”

Jeonghan waits for him to elaborate, but he doesn’t.

“Okay, then let’s get you home. I’m sorry I kept you for so long.”

“Don’t be. I had a great time,” Joshua says, standing. “Actually, while you finish up, could I go look around the shop?”

“Of course. Are you looking for anything in particular?”

“Nope. Just want to browse a bit,” Joshua replies with a laugh that’s a touch too loud, his cheeks dusting a pretty pink. “Same price?”

“Yes. Help yourself to a bag.”

“Sweet. Thank you.”

Jeonghan takes the offered money and watches Joshua leave with curiosity burning in his chest. 

That was suspicious.

There are a thousand and one reasons why someone might buy a candle, but why would Joshua be nervous about it? 

As he finishes jotting down his notes, Jeonghan contemplates asking, though eventually decides against it. Joshua doesn’t need to justify his purchase.

Maybe it’s a gift for his alpha, and he doesn’t want to bring it up so I won’t feel awkward.

It’s the easiest explanation, even if it hurts.

A few minutes pass before Jeonghan heads to the storefront. He opens the door slowly, making his approach noisy so Joshua knows he’s coming.

“Find what you were looking for?”

“Yeah,” Joshua beams, holding up a patterned paper bag. The pink in his cheeks deepens to a subtle red. “Thanks for letting me hang out for a bit.”

“Thank you for helping.”

“Did I actually help? I couldn’t tell,” Joshua teases as he follows Jeonghan to the entryway.

“You did,” Jeonghan replies truthfully, glancing at his companion.

“In that case, can I make an observation?”

“Yes.”

“Maybe the reason you’re having so much trouble with the new collection is because it smells like summer.”

Jeonghan huffs a laugh, “What’s that supposed to mean?”

Joshua reaches out, and for a moment, Jeonghan thinks it’ll be another head pat. Familiar. Simple. Platonic. Instead, Joshua gently cups his cheek, his fingers brushing Jeonghan’s scent gland. Pumpkin permeates through the store, rich and earthy and sweet. Warmth blossoms in Jeonghan’s chest all the way to the tips of his ears.

“You smell like fall,” Joshua says, quiet like a secret, his smile like a promise. He lowers his hand and steps away. “Goodnight, Jeonghan.”

“Goodnight.”

The reply leaves his lips on rote instinct alone, all other words lost to the fluttering of Jeonghan’s heart.

The door closes. Jeonghan continues to stare at the place where Joshua disappeared, his thoughts too loud and completely silent all at once.

As the smell of pumpkin slowly dissipates, all that’s left are his candles and vanilla.

He scented me.

Not even a trace of Soonyoung’s wood scent remains, and something about that fact sits deliciously warm in Jeonghan’s belly.

He takes a steadying breath, letting familiar vanilla settle in his lungs and on his tongue.

It’s only then that he realizes what was different about Joshua.

His scent was laced with pre-heat.

Jeonghan tries not to think about it, but his omega is insistent. Maybe it’s because of his proximity to his own heat. But why had Joshua come to the shop? Why hadn’t he been at home with his alpha?

Technically, he is, Jeonghan reminds himself as yet another afternoon passes without so much as a text from the other omega. But what should Jeonghan expect? He’s probably…busy.

It’s been two days since Joshua’s last visit. Two days since they’d last spoken. Two days of late nights, alone, wondering if Joshua feels comfortable and happy.

Wondering if Joshua’s alpha is taking care of him.

Jeonghan lets his omega marinate in its own misery, even if he puts on a winning smile for his customers. His friends are less easily fooled, and as his own scent shifts into something pre-heat sweet, Mingyu, Soonyoung, and even Vernon start doting on him.

With a pinch of guilt, Jeonghan wonders if the affectionate attention is one of the reasons he always works through his heats. It’s nice to be worried about, to be platonically scented and sometimes even cuddled. 

But now that Soonyoung has Jihoon and Mingyu has Wonwoo (Vernon has always had Seungkwan, even if they don’t admit it), the cuddles are fewer and farther between. 

As Jeonghan stands restlessly behind the counter, he ponders whether or not he might ask one of his omega friends for platonic affection.

Jihoon doesn’t seem like the type. Neither does Wonwoo.

Jeonghan sighs, rubbing a hand over his face.

Keep it together. You’re working.

And maybe that’s another reason he works through his heats. It gives him something to focus on. It’s an obligation he can’t—

Jeonghan perks up as someone opens the shop door.

It’s a young man, sturdy in his build but kind in his face. 

“Welcome, let me know if I can help you with…anything…” Jeonghan trails off, his smile falling as he recognizes the scent, salty ocean air and sunbaked sand.

This is Joshua’s alpha.

Hide, his omega urges.

I can’t hide.

But what if he’s angry?

Does he even know who I am?

Should I get Soonyoung?

Wait.

Why is he here? Why isn’t he taking care of Joshua?

In the moment between seconds, as Jeonghan’s thoughts chase each other around his head, the alpha’s gaze finds him.

“Hi! Are you Jeonghan?” he asks, hurrying up to the counter with a nervous smile.

“Yes?”

“Oh thank god,” he laughs, almost relieved. “You’re good friends with Joshua, right?”

“I am. Is everything okay?” Jeonghan asks carefully. He doesn’t want to think he’s sizing this alpha up, but he is. He can smell Joshua’s heat-thick vanilla on the young man. Even now, Jeonghan’s omega yearns for it.

“Um, this is gonna be really awkward but he’s been, ah, asking for you. It’s his heat and he’s just miserable and, y’know,” the alpha takes an awkward breath in between his teeth as if he’s bracing himself. “Would you be able to come visit him?”

Almost dizzy with adrenaline, Jeonghan stares at the young man for a moment, trying in vain to rein in his omega’s excitement. It’s not working.

“You want me to visit him?” Jeonghan asks to both clarify and buy himself time to clear his head.

Joshua asked for me.

The thought threads through his belly like fire, tingling across his skin like the brush of gentle fingers.

“Only if you want to.”

“And you’re okay with this?”

The young man huffs, amused, “I mean yeah, whatever makes things easier.”

“You’re being very accommodating, for an alpha with an omega in heat. No offense,” Jeonghan says warily, taking a few steps toward the door to the back offices.

“None taken.” They stare at each other for a beat before realization flickers across the alpha’s expression, “Oh. Oh. I’m not—we’re not, like, dating. He’s just my roommate.”

And in that moment, with such a simple and mundane revelation, something inside Jeonghan breaks in the most beautiful way. All of the tension, the guilt, and the aching longing he’d been feeling over the past few weeks shatter like fragments of stars.

“I’m Chan, by the way,” the alpha says, offering a smile and a hand to shake. 

Jeonghan accepts his greeting, still feeling balloon-light and bewildered, “Nice to meet you.”

“Likewise. Not to be pushy but I promised I’d be back in a few minutes,” Chan says apologetically. “If you need a little while to think it over, I totally get it.”

“No, it’s okay,” Jeonghan assures. His brain stutters as he glances at the register, then the entrance to the shop, then back at Chan. “Just give me a moment.”

He opens the door to the offices.

“Mingyu?” Jeonghan calls, putting a little urgency in his voice.

“Hang on!” his friend calls from down the hall. “Be right there!”

Jeonghan lets the door close, then turns back to the young alpha, “How far do you guys live?”

As if it would make a difference.

“Just up the street that way.”

“Okay,” Jeonghan nods, his omega giddy enough to howl, something archaic and silly and joyful beyond words. “I’ll go.”

The next few minutes are a blur. Jeonghan leaves Mingyu in charge of the shop. Soonyoung insists that Jeonghan share his location. Chan easily submits with a placating smile and an exact address in the face of Soonyoung’s suspicious glare. Jeonghan follows the young alpha down the street to a relatively nice apartment complex. He might’ve been more wary if he hadn’t smelled Joshua’s scent, cloyingly desperate, pleadingly soft, and slightly bitter like a drop of vanilla on a curious tongue.

Chan pulls out a set of keys and unlocks the door, opening it carefully and peeking inside, “Shua? I’m back! And I brought a friend.”

The alpha steps aside with an awkward laugh, sheepish in a cute way. 

“Make yourself at home,” he whispers, gesturing around the apartment.

It’s a comfortable space, pleasantly lived-in, filled with eclectic furniture and colorful trinkets. There are decorative pillows on the couch and collectable figurines on the shelves. 

Sweet vanilla permeates the space, and Jeonghan’s omega wants to drown in it. 

He sets the thought aside.

“Is now really the best time for guests?” Joshua responds humorously from down a short hallway. He sounds amused but uncomfortable. Jeonghan understands. 

“Don’t get all fussy,” Chan replies, teasing. “You’ve literally been talking about him nonstop.”

“I’m not fussy,” the other omega laughs, a playful pout in his voice. “And what are you talking about? I haven’t…”

Joshua pauses in a doorway at the end of the hall as his gaze meets Jeonghan’s, and in that still, quiet moment, Jeonghan finally allows himself to hope. 

Memories blossom like bokeh lights through his mind.

Fond smiles. Shared laughter. Late nights and pastel-labeled candles.

Summer-bright music. Autumn-warm glances. Moonlight and wildflowers and the best parts of forever.

“Hi,” Joshua says softly, surprise coloring his expression, the beautiful, heat-flushed pink in his cheeks deepening as he smiles.

“Hi,” Jeonghan replies with his own shy smile, uncertain yet eager, his heart butterfly-fluttering with possibilities. 

“And this is my cue to be literally anywhere else,” Chan laughs brightly and starts back toward the apartment’s exit. “Call if you need anything!”

The door closes, and Jeonghan feels the sound like the gentle strum of a guitar string in his chest. He turns to Joshua apologetically, “If you’re really not feeling up for a visit, I understand. I can go—”

“No, no you’re fine. It’s fine. Everything’s fine,” Joshua chuckles, fidgeting, combing his fingers through his messy hair and smoothing out wrinkles in his clothes.

“Is it?” Jeonghan asks, only teasing to ease some of the nervous tension. His omega lets out some calming pheromones, and Joshua’s eyes glaze over briefly. 

He blinks hard, probably clearing his head. His reply is humorous but embarrassed, “I don’t know. God, I feel like a mess. Sorry.”

“There’s nothing to apologize for,” Jeonghan soothes. “I’m just here to make sure you’re okay. Do you need water? Food? Extra blankets? A hug?”

The vanilla scent thickens subtly as Joshua shifts his weight, laughing, “You’re the guest. Aren’t I supposed to be asking if you need anything?”

“Under normal circumstances, maybe,” Jeonghan replies. He’s still in the entryway, unsure whether to approach or not. There’s no precedent for this in their friendship, no weekend movie nights, no cuddling on the couch, no affectionate scenting. Jeonghan doesn’t want to overstep boundaries, even if his omega is insisting to close the gap between them, to comfort and soothe and touch. “Whatever you need. I’m here to help.”

Some of the tension eases out of Joshua’s shoulders, and the smile he offers Jeonghan is endearing, “In that case, I was just about to start another movie. We could watch it together…”

“That sounds like a great plan,” Jeonghan says, grateful that his voice doesn’t betray the excited flutter of his heartbeat and that his own pumpkin scent is hidden by Joshua’s heady vanilla. 

The other omega beams, nodding toward his bedroom, “Then what are you waiting for? Come on.”

“It’s impolite to enter an omega’s nest uninvited,” Jeonghan chuckles, stepping out of his shoes and walking down the short hallway.

“Then consider this your formal invitation,” Joshua replies playfully. He reaches out and places a gentle hand on Jeonghan’s head, an affectionate touch, intimate in its familiarity. Jeonghan’s omega delights in it. The human part of him does, too.

Curious and hesitant with the newness of it all, he follows Joshua into his bedroom.

So close to his own heat, Jeonghan has to fight the urge to lose himself in the scent of the room. It fills his lungs, wrapping around him like a favorite blanket.

Joshua’s bedroom is much like the rest of the apartment, filled with tasteful decorations and mismatched pieces of furniture that still somehow belong together, a small desk, a scuffed dresser, and a side table with a TV on top. Off to the side, there’s a bookshelf stacked full of novels, music sheets, and CD cases. A familiar guitar sits on a stand in the corner. 

And then Jeonghan lets his gaze settle on the bed, on the carefully constructed nest of pillows, blankets, and pieces of clothing that carry the scent of maple and apples. Above all of it, though, is the scent of vanilla, of Joshua, and artificial pumpkin. 

A candle burns on one of the nightstands, its steady flame blurred by frosted glass.

Pumpkin Patch.

It must be the candle Joshua bought, the one he hadn’t wanted to show Jeonghan. 

Did he choose it…because of me?

“Make yourself comfortable,” Joshua says, closing the door, then climbing into his nest and patting the space beside him.

Jeonghan settles easily but mindfully on the bed, trying to reel in the thoughts of his immensely pleased omega. 

Perfect, it tells him. Perfect perfect perfect. 

“What are we watching?” he asks, glancing at Joshua. Their shoulders brush.

“Just some superhero movie. It’s like the third one in the series. Something I don’t really have to pay attention to.”

Jeonghan hums an acknowledgement, watching the way the light from the TV reflects in Joshua’s eyes, painting his cheeks and the slope of his nose in vibrant colors. 

His gaze inadvertently finds Joshua’s lips. Jeonghan quickly looks away, his cheeks burning. 

They spend the next few minutes watching the opening sequence of the film, talking quietly and relaxing into one another’s company. Or in Jeonghan’s case, trying to.

It’s strange to not be busy, to not be in his shop, to just sit and be present without expectations. 

Even when Joshua would visit after hours, Jeonghan was always doing something else, cleaning, organizing, or creating.

And yet here, in this nest, all he can do is be still. 

“You okay?” Joshua asks, glancing at him with concern and kindness in his eyes. 

“I’m fine. Why?”

“Your scent’s all stressed out,” Joshua laughs quietly, shifting a bit so he can place a gentle hand at the nape of Jeonghan’s neck, grounding, reassuring.

Something about his observation makes Jeonghan feel validated. 

“I’m sorry. This is just unusual for me,” he replies with a sheepish smile. 

“Watching movies?” Joshua teases.

Jeonghan huffs a laugh, “Not exactly.”

“Then what?” Joshua asks. His thumb brushes the sensitive skin of Jeonghan’s neck, close to his scent gland, soothing as vanilla washes over his senses. 

“I’ve never…spent a heat with another omega before.”

“You haven’t?”

“No,” Jeonghan replies. He doesn’t know why he continues. It’s a question his own omega dreads the answer to, and yet he asks anyway, “Have you?”

“Yeah, a few times.”

“Makes sense,” Jeonghan replies vaguely, trying to remain neutral.

It’s not like I haven’t spent a heat with someone before.  

“C’mon,” Joshua giggles, wrapping an arm around Jeonghan’s waist and affectionately resting his head on Jeonghan’s shoulder. This close, Jeonghan can feel the warmth of Joshua’s body, the smoldering of his heat even through the layers of clothes. He wants to tuck himself closer. “Don’t be like that.”

“Like what?” Jeonghan asks coyly.

“Pouty. It was one of my old bandmates. She was nice, but it was just friends keeping friends company, y’know?”

Is that what this is, too?

“You’re doing it again,” Joshua murmurs, amusement lacing through his tone. “I can smell it.”

“I’m not pouting.”

“You are.”

“Am not.”

“Then you just like the attention.”

“Says who?” Jeonghan asks, losing the fight against his smile.

“Says me,” Joshua retorts, a mischievous smirk clear in his voice. “Are you jealous, Hannie?”

Warmth floods through Jeonghan, coiling deliciously in his abdomen. His scent momentarily eclipses every other smell in the room, and Joshua pulls away just far enough to meet his gaze.

They’re on the precipice of something. Jeonghan can feel it.

“And if I am jealous?” Jeonghan asks, raising an eyebrow.

“Well, you shouldn’t be,” Joshua’s smile suddenly softens with sincerity. “You know this is different—or at least, I hope it is.”

“Different how?”

A blush colors Joshua’s cheeks and, laughing shyly, he looks away as if he’s trying to find the right words. Or as if he’s afraid of saying the wrong thing.

Jeonghan has always been a careful person, preferring to follow and watch things happen at a safe distance, hiding behind alpha friends and measured words and candle shop countertops. Cautiousness is simply part of who he is. And even if he’s been on a journey of self acceptance lately, sometimes, taking chances is worth it, right?

I can do this.

For Joshua.

For my omega.

For me.

“Different like…we’re more than just friends?” Jeonghan asks quietly.

Joshua looks back at him, searching Jeonghan’s expression before replying, his words petal-soft, “Yeah. More than just friends.”

Relief wells in Jeonghan’s heart. It echoes in his scent, too. He smiles fondly, teasing, “Good. I knew you were flirting with me.”

The other omega laughs, delighted, surprised, and humorously defensive, “Would it have killed you to flirt back every so often?”

“Listen. I thought you and Chan were dating. I was being a decent person.”

“You thought—?” Joshua cuts himself off and stares for a beat, then laughs harder.

“What? You smelled like him all the time.”

“I mean yeah, we live together.”

“I know that now. But how was I supposed to know when you never talked about him?” Jeonghan giggles, playfully shoving at Joshua’s shoulder.

There’s only joy in his companion’s eyes as he retorts, “I never talk about him because people always assume we’re dating when I do.”

“And how’d that turn out?”

“Just fine, apparently,” Joshua gestures at Jeonghan and they share a smothered laugh. He reaches over and gently tucks a lock of hair behind Jeonghan’s ear, smile softening, “We’re here now. And that’s what matters.”

Jeonghan leans into his lingering touch, and for the first time in a long time, Jeonghan’s omega purrs happily.

“Does this mean we can cuddle?”

Joshua huffs in amusement, “Absolutely.”

After a quick dinner of leftovers, they settle back down on the bed as Joshua rearranges the blankets and pillows around them. It doesn’t escape Jeonghan’s notice that the other omega extinguishes the candle on his nightstand. 

With dusk fading into night beyond the window curtains, they end up restarting the movie, then restarting the whole series when Jeonghan keeps asking humorous questions that turn into serious questions and Joshua can’t find the right way to explain. It’s not his fault, though. His mind is probably hazy from the heat and there’s no guarantee he was actually paying attention to the first two films.

With the feverish toll on his body, Joshua was probably napping on and off. It’s a reasonable assumption. And yet, surrounded by heady vanilla, with Joshua’s weight resting comfortably over him and his face tucked in the crook of Jeonghan’s neck, he can’t help but think about idle hands and hitched breaths.

Jeonghan knows the pornographic stereotypes about omegas aren’t true from first-hand experience. Can they become desperate under the right circumstances? Of course. Probably. He wouldn’t personally know because a lot of it has to do with heavy scenting and he’s never…anyway. 

He tries to set the thoughts aside in favor of paying attention to the TV screen and tracing soothing patterns across the broad expanse of Joshua’s clothed back. Between their slotted legs and Joshua’s proximity to his scent gland, he would have no way of hiding his arousal.

“You’re thinking about something,” Joshua murmurs, a smile in his voice.

Jeonghan chuckles, “Mostly about how we restarted the movie but you’re not watching it.”

“Don’t care,” Joshua replies humorously. His nose brushes Jeonghan’s neck, maybe purposefully, maybe not, and Jeonghan’s thighs tense. “I’m comfortable.”

“But if you’re not paying attention, who’s gonna answer my questions later?”

“Maybe if you watched the movie instead of having dirty thoughts about me, you wouldn’t have questions.”

“Oh my god.”

“Am I wrong?”

“I’m leaving.”

A playful growl rumbles in Joshua’s chest, a sound that Jeonghan feels more than hears. Pleasure pinches low in his abdomen as a small noise leaves his throat. 

“Don’t play coy with me,” Joshua says almost musically and nuzzles against Jeonghan’s scent gland, blanketing them both in the arousal-sweet smell of pumpkin.

Jeonghan tilts his head, a silent invitation to the other omega, “But isn’t that part of my charm?”

“One part of many,” Joshua replies with quiet sincerity. 

Jeonghan revels in the soft press of lips against the sensitive skin of his neck, but then Joshua draws away, propping himself up on his elbows. There’s something heavy in his gaze that makes Jeonghan’s omega restless with the need to touch, to run his fingers across feverish skin, to grip strong muscles, to soothe and comfort and please. 

Joshua leans down slowly, leaving room for a decision that Jeonghan has already made. Their noses brush.

“Can I kiss you?”

“Of course.”

The other omega smiles, just a moment of shared fondness before he closes the distance between them.

Joshua’s lips are soft. He kisses gently yet deeply, like a promise, and it leaves Jeonghan breathless in the best way. His fingers lace into Joshua’s hair, guiding, encouraging, asking for more.

His other hand finds the hem of Joshua’s hoodie, then the skin of his back, smooth and burning with the warmth of his heat. Heady vanilla floods Jeonghan’s senses. He can almost taste it on his tongue. Drunk on the intensity of Joshua’s attention, Jeonghan feels teeth graze his lip and his fingers try to find purchase, nails lightly scratching down Joshua’s back.

Letting out a small needy sound, Joshua’s hips cant forward. 

Jeonghan can feel his companion’s arousal, can smell it in the thickness of his scent, and his omega begs him to do something about it. Tentatively, Jeonghan withdraws his hand from under Joshua’s hoodie and slips his fingertip into the waistband of Joshua’s pants at his hip, intentions clear with a silent question.

Joshua breaks their kiss to hide his face in the crook of Jeonghan’s neck. The words are spoken against his skin with an edge of quiet desperation, “We should stop.”

Jeonghan immediately withdraws his hand, “Too much?”

“No,” Joshua murmurs, laughing breathily. “Just—if we keep going, the heat’s gonna start getting to me and I don’t wanna ask you for things you aren’t comfortable doing.”

“Who said I’m not comfortable?” Jeonghan teases, though the question is genuine. He combs his fingers soothingly through Joshua’s hair. “Can I touch you?”

“Yes,” Joshua huffs.

“Now who’s pouting?”

“Me.”

They share a laugh and some of the tension eases.

“On your back,” Jeonghan says, patting Joshua’s shoulder.

“Are you sure?” the other omega asks even as he easily complies, settling against the pillows. 

Jeonghan sits up and moves lower on the bed until Joshua’s thighs bracket his hips, asking with a playful glance, “Clothes on or off?”

“Hannie,” Joshua whines, letting out a shy, scrunched-nose huff of amusement. “I asked you a question.”

Jeonghan fights a smile, “I’ve never been more sure of something. I promise.”

He leans up to give Joshua a kiss, reassuring and sweet, then lets his lips travel to Joshua’s jaw and neck. For a moment, he lets himself drown in Joshua’s scent, letting it fill him with comfort and courage and the hungry warmth of desire.

Satisfied, he shifts his weight back on his heels and looks down at the other omega. Lucidity swirls in and out of Joshua’s gaze, clouded with simmering desperation.

“I asked you a question too,” Jeonghan teases, placing his hands high on Joshua’s thighs, his thumbs brushing slow, mindless patterns on sensitive skin. Close, but not touching yet.

“What was it?” Joshua asks, his voice breathy as he intently watches Jeonghan’s hands.

“Clothes on or off?” Jeonghan asks again, letting one of his hands explore further, finding the clothed outline of Joshua’s arousal with his fingertips.

“I…” Joshua’s breath hitches as Jeonghan gives him a gentle squeeze. “Off.”

He pulls his hoodie over his head, tossing it aside.

“Hips up.”

Jeonghan helps him with his pants and underwear, leaving Joshua bare before him. He takes a steadying breath, drinking in the curves and planes of Joshua’s body, his skin flushed a subtle pink with his heat.

“Someday, I’ll take my time with you,” Jeonghan muses, taking off his own sweater. He’s about to drop it over the side of the nest, but Joshua reaches for it so Jeonghan offers it to him instead. 

Joshua hugs the soft material to his chest, “I’d like that. But not right now.”

“I know,” Jeonghan chuckles, not bothering with his own pants as he settles comfortably between Joshua’s legs and presses a kiss to one of his thighs. “Today, just relax. I’ve got you.”

It doesn’t take long for Joshua to be consumed by his heat, witty clarity replaced by soft desperation. Jeonghan isn’t well-practiced with his mouth, but he knows from his own experience what might feel good. 

A curious tongue. Careful fingers. Hollowed cheeks.

It helps that Joshua is endearingly reactive.

Subtle shivers. Tensed muscles. A gentle hand in Jeonghan’s hair.

Joshua finishes with a shuddering breath and a quiet whine that echoes so easily in Jeonghan’s memory. It threads through him, beckoning toward his own release. Jeonghan’s omega sets the thought aside, though. 

Partner first. 

He looks up at Joshua, high on bliss and catching his breath, Jeonghan’s sweater pressed close to his nose.

Removing his mouth and keeping his fingers still, Jeonghan asks quietly, “Okay?”

Joshua nods, lucidity slowly settling back into his gaze. He smiles, “Your turn?”

Jeonghan chuckles, “Don’t worry about me.”

“I’m not worried,” Joshua replies, reaching over to his nightstand to grab a few tissues and a bottle of water. He offers the latter to Jeonghan as he cleans himself up. Jeonghan’s omega protests, but he stays quiet, taking a sip of water instead. “But if you don’t want to, I understand.”

“It’s not that.”

“Then what is it?” Joshua asks, kindness and humor in his tone as he gets up to throw the tissues away.

Jeonghan is quiet for a few moments as he contemplates his answer, “I think I’m nervous.”

“Nervous? Or shy?” Joshua asks as he steps into a new pair of underwear.

“Maybe both,” Jeonghan laughs, safely setting aside the water bottle. “I’ve always felt intimidated during sex.”

“Am I intimidating?”

“No.”

Joshua approaches the bed, then cups Jeonghan’s cheek, holding his gaze with a gentle sort of intensity, “Please let me return the favor? If you don’t like it, we can stop.”

“Okay.”

“‘Okay’ because I asked or because you want to?”

“Because I want to.”

And because I trust you.

They share a smile, an innocent sort of intimacy, then the world swoops around Jeonghan. With a growl that leaves Jeonghan’s omega helpless against its own desire, Joshua playfully scoops him close and tips them over onto the bed in a tangled heap of limbs, blankets, and giggles.

Joshua’s lips find Jeonghan’s easily as his hands explore Jeonghan’s waist, hips, and thighs. Even through the fabric of his pants, Jeonghan can feel the warmth of Joshua’s palms and the brush of his fingertips. He feels breathless with anticipation.

“Still okay?” Joshua asks.

Jeonghan nods and lifts his hips, letting the other omega help him with his remaining clothes. 

Joshua sets them aside with a bright grin, “Great. Glad those are out of the way.”

“Eager, are you?” Jeonghan teases.

“Yes.”

The immediate admission sends pleasure pooling in Jeonghan’s belly.

Joshua continues, unabashed, “Honestly, I’m still trying to figure out how the smartest, funniest, most beautiful person I’ve ever met just showed up at my doorstep and offered to help with my heat.”

“I think you have Chan to thank for that.”

“Hmm. Yeah. I should buy him a fruit basket.”

They laugh softly, and Joshua leans down to kiss him. It’s brief yet tender, then Joshua’s lips trail downward, pressing feather-light kisses to Jeonghan’s neck, chest, and navel.

Joshua is as generous as he is gentle. Maybe more.

He sucks and nips subtle marks along the creases of Jeonghan’s thighs, not quite bruises, though they will ache deliciously tomorrow. Joshua chases his teeth with the warmth of his tongue as he sets a steady rhythm with his hand.

Jeonghan melts under his touch, losing himself in Joshua’s intoxicating vanilla scent and in the pheromones of an omega.

Pleasure builds in surges like waves, drawing him closer and closer to the edge.

It’s not that he falls apart, but rather that Joshua carefully dismantles the pieces of himself that Jeonghan has long been afraid of—vulnerability, pleasure, hope, acceptance—and then puts him back together with murmured words of affection and soft smiles.

They clean up in the bathroom amidst fond glances and playful touches.

Joshua lets him borrow some clothes.

And for the first time after sex, Jeonghan isn’t uncomfortably stretched and locked into place or asked to milk a knot with his hands. He’s being cuddled and scented and held.

It’s strange, to feel this relaxed and content. Strange in a good way.

Beneath the blankets, Jeonghan traces mindless, soothing patterns on Joshua’s back, his skin smooth under Jeongahn’s fingertips. Joshua subtly nuzzles into the crook of Jeonghan’s neck. On the TV, there’s a very intense dialogue going on between three characters who look like they’re about to fight in a burning city.

“Shua.”

“Hmm?”

“Who’s that?”

“Who?”

“The older guy. Is he a villain?”

Joshua laughs, then playfully nips at the sensitive skin of Jeonghan’s neck, “I’m not restarting the movie a third time.”

“Why not? Are you afraid we’re gonna get distracted again?”

“No. We should probably sleep soon, especially if you have work tomorrow.”

Jeonghan pauses.

His response is hesitant, “How much longer do you think your heat will last?”

“Another day, or day and a half.”

“Maybe…I could take some time off. If you still want company.”

“You’re welcome to stay as long as you want,” Joshua replies, a smile in his voice.

“Then I’ll call Mingyu in the morning,” Jeonghan decides with a small rush of pleasant adrenaline, “and we can finally watch this movie.”

They share a smothered laugh and Joshua presses a fond kiss to Jeonghan’s scent gland, washing the room in a mix of pumpkin and vanilla.

They never do watch the full series, but that’s okay with Jeonghan. They can always finish it some other time. 

Joshua’s heat breaks the following evening, evidenced by the cooling of his skin and the softening of his scent. Chan comes back with food. Jeonghan apologizes for any inconveniences, but the young alpha waves him off, unbothered.

As they sit down to a late dinner, Jeonghan still can’t help but feel guilty.

He’d harbored such a blind, jealous resentment toward Chan for weeks, and he’s one of the nicest, most genuine people Jeonghan has ever met. He resolves to make it up to the young alpha, even if it’s just through returned kindness.

Jeonghan spends the night at their apartment, mostly because his hosts insist it’s too late to walk home, but also because he isn’t ready to leave Joshua quite yet, his omega basking in a type of intimacy he’s never felt before. Out of respect for Chan, they keep their hands to themselves, but Joshua and Jeonghan fall asleep cuddled close.

The next morning, Jeonghan returns to his own apartment to get ready for work. The space is quiet and the air is stale, but it doesn’t bother him as much as it usually does. He changes into his own clothes, but keeps Joshua’s hoodie on despite the warm forecast.

No one will mind if I wear it, he rationalizes.

So Jeonghan walks to the shop with a light heart and a smile, his mind still pleasantly hazy with the scent of vanilla and memories of Joshua.

Thankfully, the shop is still standing, and Jeonghan hums a dreamy tune to himself as he heads to the back offices, turning on lights as he goes.

He yells in surprise when he sees the person sitting at the table.

Soonyoung smirks, hands steepled, “So you’ve returned—”

“What are you doing here?” Jeonghan scolds, pressing a hand to his chest. “Why were you sitting in the dark?”

“I was waiting for you.”

“How long were you here?”

“Two hours.”

“No you weren’t.”

Soonyoung cackles, spinning around in the chair, “You’re right. I lied. I’ve only been here a few minutes but I smelled you coming, so.”

Jeonghan blushes up to his ears but doesn’t take the bait, “How are things here? Everything alright?”

“The shop is fine,” Soonyoung waves off his concern, still smiling his Cheshire grin. “I wanna hear about how you’ve been. Getting friendly with Joshua and stuff.”

“We had a great time, thank you very much,” Jeonghan replies with playful defensiveness. He knows Soonyoung is a safe person, even if they tease each other.

His friend’s eyes practically sparkle, “You did? That’s great! Is this gonna be a regular thing now? Are you guys dating?”

“I don’t know,” Jeonghan admits. “We didn’t talk about it.”

“Who are you? Vernon?” Soonyoung complains, laughing. “Why not?”

“We were busy. I’m sure he’ll stop by today or tomorrow and we’ll talk about it then.”

“Deal.”

With that out of the way, they start their morning tasks and Jeonghan easily settles back into his routine. He does feel…refreshed though. Happier. Maybe Soonyoung was right about taking a vacation. Not that Jeonghan would ever tell him that.

Vernon and Mingyu are both glad to see him back. Mingyu even scoops him into a hug and scents him affectionately, asking questions like if he had a good time and whether he ate enough. Jeonghan assures him that everything’s fine.

He’s halfway through his morning cup of ladybug-mug coffee, answering emails behind the counter when he starts feeling somewhat dizzy.

Odd. Maybe I didn’t actually eat enough. 

“Vernon?” he calls into the back offices.

“Yeah?”

“Can you do me a favor?”

The alpha appears in the doorway, “Sure, what’s up?”

“If I give you some money, can you go get everyone some snacks? You can go to that bakery you and Soonyoung like.”

Even after picking at a blueberry muffin, Jeonghan feels uncomfortably light-headed. He pushes through it after the shop opens though, helping a few customers who all give him strangely sympathetic looks. 

It’s a young alpha woman who finally says something to him. She gives him a curious once over and winces apologetically, “Working during your heat, huh? That sucks.”

Jeonghan fights the urge to correct her.

They can probably smell Joshua and think it’s me.

“Yeah, well, we do what we have to do, right?” he laughs.

She nods, then hums thoughtfully, “Well, if you’re ever feeling lonely…”

“He’s fine, thanks.”

Jeonghan turns to find Soonyoung leaning against the counter, smiling politely.

The young woman puts her hands up in mock surrender, unbothered, “No worries. Just shooting my shot.”

“Fair,” Soonyoung shrugs. “But if you have any other candle-related questions. Just let us know. We’ll be happy to help.”

She nods and continues browsing around the store.

Soonyoung turns to Jeonghan, concern in his expression, “You okay?”

“Yeah. She wasn’t a problem.”

“Should you really be out here right now? I mean, Mingyu and I can handle it.”

Jeonghan sighs, taking off Joshua’s hoodie and storing it beneath the counter, “It’s just Joshua’s scent lingering on me. It’ll dissipate soon.”

He’ll need to go put it in the back offices to clear the air completely, but his omega whines in protest and Jeonghan doesn’t feel like fighting it. They can compromise.

“If you say so,” Soonyoung frowns. “But I’m staying out here with you.”

Morning turns to a cloudless, hot, late-summer afternoon and Jihoon stops by with lunch for himself, his boyfriend, and Jeonghan.

“Thank you,” Jeonghan says with a grateful smile as Jihoon offers him a takeout container.

“Anytime,” Jihoon nods, then pauses. “You’re still working?”

“Everyone’s been saying that today,” Jeonghan laughs quietly. 

“Because we’re all worried about you,” Soonyoung rolls his eyes.

“And I’m grateful for it. But I’m okay,” Jeonghan assures, then turns back to Jihoon. “How’s Joshua doing?”

“He’s fine, working later today,” the other omega replies. He’s frowning, more than usual, his eyebrows pinched like he’s thinking. “Really, are you sure you should be here?”

Jeonghan sighs, “Is it really that bad? I showered before I came to work, but it seems like everyone can still smell him.”

“Him?” Jihoon asks incredulously.

“Joshua.”

Jihoon lets out a frustrated sound and leans over the counter, taking a deep breath, “Nope. That’s all you.”

Jeonghan stares for a beat, then lifts his hand to touch his face. He feels warm, but warmer than normal? In his mind’s eye, he pictures the office calendar.

My heat should still be a few days away.

“I just got back. I have things to do,” Jeonghan groans.

Soonyoung leans closer and tentatively sniffs, then shrugs, “Well you can either get things done behind the scenes or you can do what I’ve been telling you all along and take a break.”

“Maybe,” Jeonghan says quietly. He can already feel his conviction slipping.

“Look, we’ve already been covering the store for the last couple days. What’s a few more?” Soonyoung asks, placing a reassuring hand on Jeonghan’s shoulder.

“Okay. Fine. I’m gonna do it. I’m gonna go home.”

“Yes! Go! Be free!” Soonyoung cheers, drawing the attention of a few people passing on the street. They stare through the shop windows for a beat before moving on. Jihoon fights a smile.

Jeonghan just laughs, “Don’t burn the place down.”

“I would never.”

Before he leaves, Jeonghan pulls on Joshua’s hoodie, gathers his belongings (including his lunch), thanks his friends for being responsible, and thanks Jihoon for the reality check. Mingyu ends up walking him home, just to be safe. Jeonghan appreciates it.

And then he’s alone again.

Naturally, he thinks about calling Joshua, but they’d just seen each other that morning. Is it too soon? What if he’s already working? Joshua doesn’t have the luxury of spontaneously taking time off. Does he?

Jeonghan putters around his studio apartment, pondering and worrying as he finishes his lunch and changes out of his work clothes. He keeps Joshua’s hoodie on, though. It soothes his omega.

The heat has begun to burn under his skin, fogging his brain and weighing down his limbs. 

How did I not notice it earlier?

It doesn’t matter. I’m home. Relax.

Jeonghan stares at his bed for a moment, his omega craving a nest but not wanting to make one. Exhausted and shivering, Jeonghan climbs under the blankets and pulls out his phone.

It rings once. Twice. Three times. Goes to voicemail. He hangs up, deciding to text instead.

Jeonghan: Hi ^-^ Jihoon said you’re working today so if you’re busy I understand
Jeonghan: But when you have a second, can you call me?

He sets the device aside, then curls in on himself, burying his nose in the collar of Joshua’s hoodie. Vanilla washes over him gently, and some of the ache in Jeonghan’s body ebbs. It’s enough for now.

Minutes slowly slip into hours as he dozes. It’s an uneasy sleep, uncomfortably warm and mostly dreamless.

His omega wonders why Joshua isn’t responding.

Jeonghan logically assumes he’s busy and sets the anxious thoughts aside. Or at least he tries to.

The sound of his phone ringing pulls him back into the waking world. He groans quietly, sore and tired and confused. Outside, the darkness glows with the fluorescent city night.

“Hello?” he answers without looking at the caller ID.

“Jeonghan? Are you okay? Are you safe?” 

The worry in Joshua’s voice yanks Jeonghan into full alertness. He sits up, rubbing his face, “I’m fine. I just…missed you.”

“Sorry I’m calling back so late. I left my phone at home.”

Jeonghan laughs softly, “It’s okay. You shouldn’t be chained to it.”

“God. At this point maybe I should be,” Joshua chuckles. “But I missed you too. I just wanted to go home and wash up real quick before I stopped by the shop. Have you eaten? Do you want me to bring dinner?”

“I’m actually not at the shop.”

“You’re not?”

“I had to go home. I, ah. My heat’s early.”

Pause.

“Hello?”

“I’m still here. Sorry. I’m just—” Joshua cuts himself off. “My brain went in a million different directions. Okay. Do you…want me to come over?”

If Joshua can be direct, so can I.

“Yes.”

It feels good to say it, and to know he’ll be heard.

Joshua hums an acknowledgement amidst the sound of sifting through miscellaneous junk-drawer objects, “Wait, let me grab a pen.”

“Waiting,” Jeonghan replies, amused.

“Alright. I’ll bring some food, overnight bag, blankets?”

“Please.”

“Anything else?”

“Your phone, so I can send you my address.”

“Yeah, and my phone.”

They share a laugh and Jeonghan smiles to himself, so, so fond.

It takes Joshua about an hour to get to Jeonghan’s apartment, which is both a good and bad thing. It gives him time to tidy up the small space, but it also gives him time to agonize over the fact that he hasn’t made a nest.

Joshua won’t mind, Jeonghan tries to convince himself, even as he uselessly moves around his blankets and pillows. It won’t matter to him.

Yet his omega worries, he’ll think you’re a bad mate. Make a better nest.

I’m trying.

I’m trying…

I can’t.

Jeonghan sits on the floor, staring at the foot of his bed and feeling too warm and too cold and uncomfortable, fixating on the fact that he has never been able to make a good nest. Worse, he now knows what it feels like to be cared for and accepted, and his omega wonders if it’ll all get torn away from him because he’s inadequate. He feels vulnerable. He feels…

Broken, a voice at the back of his mind whispers.

Jeonghan hugs his knees to his chest, shivering on his apartment floor, surrounded by the scent of rotting pumpkin and despair.

A knock draws him out of his thoughts. He gets up slowly, opening the door and peeking out into the hallway. Joshua meets his gaze with a smile, but it immediately falls when he sees Jeonghan’s expression.

“Hey, deep breaths” Joshua soothes, setting down the bags in his hands to draw Jeonghan into an embrace. “You’re okay.”

Jeonghan buries his face into the crook of Joshua’s neck, surrounding himself in the familiarity and comfort of his scent. Joshua presses a kiss into Jeonghan’s hair, rubbing slow circles on his back.

Nearby, a door opens. 

Alpha.

Jeonghan doesn’t look up, but he hears Joshua let out a low warning growl. The door closes again.

“Hannie, let’s go inside,” he suggests softly. “I’ll get you some water and we can talk about it.”

With some coaxing, Joshua manages to get Jeonghan back into his apartment. A glass is pressed into his hands, cool to the touch, but Jeonghan’s gaze is fixed on Joshua as he glances around, no doubt taking in the thrifted furniture, the polaroid pictures of friends and family tacked to the wall, and the lack of a nest on his bed.

“Take a seat and drink,” Joshua says, offering him a smile. “I’ll bring all the stuff inside. Deep breaths.”

Jeonghan complies slowly but without complaint. Sitting on the foot of his bed, longing to be held again, he watches as Joshua brings in food, a backpack, and a duffel bag.

Once the door is locked, Joshua takes off his shoes and walks over to Jeonghan, pausing a few steps away.

“May I?” 

Jeonghan nods.

Not much of a nest to be invited into.

Joshua sits carefully beside him, resting a hand at the small of Jeonghan’s back, “You don’t have to tell me what happened, but I’m here to listen if you need me.”

Shifting closer to rest his head on Joshua’s shoulder, Jeonghan sighs, his gaze settling on the empty glass he’s holding, “Sometimes, I don’t feel like I’m good enough.”

Such simple words for such big emotions.

It doesn’t feel as earth-shattering to say aloud as he thought it would.

“Good enough for what?”

“I don’t know. Being an omega?”

“Jeonghan.”

He looks up, meeting the gentle intensity of Joshua’s gaze. 

The other omega continues quietly, “I’m sorry you feel that way. It must be really difficult to have those kinds of thoughts.”

“It is.”

There’s a brief pause before Joshua responds, his cadence thoughtful, his voice kind, “Can I give you my opinion?”

Jeonghan hums his consent.

“Your secondary gender shouldn’t define who you are or your worthiness of anything. And for you? It absolutely doesn’t,” Joshua says. “I meant what I said before. You’re the cleverest, smartest, most beautiful person I’ve ever met. Not ‘omega.’ Person.”

“Was it those words exactly?” Jeonghan asks, using humor so the words don’t feel as tight in his throat.

“Maybe, maybe not,” Joshua smiles, lifting a hand to affectionately tuck a stray lock of Jeonghan’s hair behind his ear. “But I mean it. You’re so much more than what a stereotype says you should be.”

It would be so easy to dismiss his words, but Jeonghan doesn’t. He makes himself sit with them as he thinks back on the past few weeks, on conversations he’s had with his friends, and on thoughts he’s kept in the privacy of his own mind.

Why is it so hard to let go?

“Thank you. I think I needed to hear that,” Jeonghan says, taking a steadying breath. “I just…”

Joshua doesn’t fill the silence, giving Jeonghan the time he needs to think.

“There are parts of me that still want to be a good omega.”

“Like what?”

“I want to take care of people.”

“You do.”

“I want to please my partner.”

Joshua lets out an amused sound, “I think I can confidently say you do that, too. I have firsthand experience.”

Jeonghan blushes, finally finding the courage to press the proverbial bruise, “I want to make a good nest—and don’t lie to make me feel better. I know it’s bad.”

“Okay, it could be improved. But that’s just a skill you build.”

“I’ve been trying for years. I’ve even looked up video tutorials.”

“Oh my god, you’re so cute,” Joshua laughs, looping his arm tighter around Jeonghan’s waist and pulling him close. “Well, how about this? When you’re not upset or dealing with your heat, we can figure it out. Nest making bootcamp.”

“Sounds like a great time,” Jeonghan deadpans humorously.

Joshua winks, drawing a chuckle from Jeonghan, before letting his expression soften, “But until you master it, I’ll make the nests and you can just enjoy them.”

“That doesn’t feel fair.”

“Hmm. Alright, how about this? I’ll make the nests at your apartment and we’ll spend heats here. That way we won’t have to kick Chan out. Better?”

Jeonghan hums in agreement, then offers his companion a small yet genuine smile, “Thank you.”

“For what? Being right?” Joshua teases.

Jeonghan presses an affectionate kiss to Joshua’s cheek. The other omega smiles, candlelight-soft and pretty like the moon.

“For listening.”

“Anytime. That’s what boyfriends are for, right?”

“Boyfriends?” Jeonghan raises an eyebrow, fighting a smile. “That’s a bold claim.”

Joshua shrugs, smirking, “You didn’t deny it.”

“Where in the world do you get all your confidence–?”

His question is cut off with a laugh as Joshua plucks the glass from his hands, then playfully tackles him, tipping them sideways onto the mattress. Jeonghan doesn’t fight it, reveling in the familiarity of Joshua’s weight as the other omega settles comfortably over him, nuzzling into the crook of his neck.

The sweet scents of soothing vanilla and Jeonghan’s heat start to fill the apartment, and Jeonghan’s frayed nerves begin to calm. 

“You still haven’t denied it,” Joshua whispers, a smile in his voice.

“Because you already know it’s true,” Jeonghan retorts, amused.

“But maybe I want to hear you say it.”

“Okay. Yes, boyfriends.”

Joshua hums, pleased, “Good. I’m glad we’re on the same page. Now, let’s eat before the food gets any colder.”

“But I’m comfortable,” Jeonghan complains just to tease.

“I’m supposed to be taking care of you,” Joshua says, getting up and offering a hand to Jeonghan, “and I can’t have my omega going through his heat on an empty stomach.”

My omega.

Whenever an alpha had laid verbal claim to him in the past, Jeonghan had rolled his eyes, apathetic. But it’s different when Joshua says it. Jeonghan blushes, his heart fluttering as he takes Joshua’s hand and gets to his feet. 

Yeah. His omega.

They end up eating at the small kitchen table, and Jeonghan puts away the leftovers as Joshua starts pulling blankets out of the duffel bag he’d brought and shaping them into a nest on the bed. Jeonghan watches curiously. His omega watches fondly. Joshua eventually glances at him for approval. 

They share a smile.

It’s so easy to settle into the nest together, a movie playing on Jeonghan’s laptop for background noise, a blanket that smells like vanilla pulled up around them.

Jeonghan tucks himself close to Joshua’s side, his head on the other omega’s chest, one of Joshua’s hands rubbing soothing circles on Jeonghan’s back.

With a full belly and surrounded by pleasant warmth, Jeonghan starts to doze again, and in the quiet darkness of the room, listening to Joshua’s heartbeat, he can’t help but think that this is so much better than hiding miserably in the inventory room.

Maybe I should thank Soonyoung, he muses humorously as dreams pull at his thoughts. But then I’d probably never hear the end of it.

Joshua has to work the next afternoon, but while he’s there, Wonwoo offers to cover his shift for what should be the final day of Jeonghan’s heat. He returns to the apartment with food and a bright grin, and Jeonghan pulls him eagerly back into the nest amidst giggles.

Hours pass in a pleasant haze. They eat dinner, watch movies, and talk about everything and nothing. 

In the dim, warm-toned lamplight, Jeonghan watches Joshua as he squints at the laptop screen, reading the description of a film, then scrolling away. It’s late enough that they probably won’t finish whatever it is he chooses, but Jeonghan decides not to ruin the fun of searching.

Joshua eventually breaks the silence with an unexpected question.

“You said this was the first heat you’ve spent with another omega, right?”

Jeonghan chuckles quietly from where he’s bundled beneath a blanket, “Second, technically. Yours was the first.”

“Shut up,” Joshua laughs, reaching over to playfully poke Jeonghan’s side. Smothering giggles, Jeonghan squirms away. “You get what I mean.”

“I do. I’ve only spent a couple heats with someone before. All alphas. It never really lived up to my expectations.”

“It didn’t?”

“They were always so focused on sex.”

“No heat sex, got it.”

“I…” Jeonghan blushes. Hard. “That’s not what I meant.”

His companion pauses, glancing down at Jeonghan as the heady scent of pumpkin suddenly permeates through the room. There’s mischief at the corners of Joshua’s lips as he smirks, “Oh?”

One word. That’s all it takes. And it’s hardly a word at all. Just a curious sound that has arousal threading through Jeonghan’s belly. 

“You know as well as I do that there’s more to heats than just wanting a knot,” he says, pushing himself up to sit with his back against the pillows, now at eye level with the other omega.

Joshua slowly closes the laptop, setting it aside as he watches Jeonghan, coy amusement in his gaze, “Like what?”

“Like bringing food and blankets.”

Joshua hums expectantly.

“And taking scent cues.”

He hums again.

“And listening.”

“Sounds like pretty basic stuff. A lot of people could do that.”

“But those people aren’t you.”

For a moment, Joshua doesn’t respond, his smile softening with a realization.

“Well, I can’t argue with that.”

“I mean you could, just for the fun of it,” Jeonghan replies innocently.

His companion laughs, “You know, I’m starting to think you enjoy our witty banter.”

“Really? What makes you think that?”

Joshua’s smile settles into a smirk, his voice lowering to a teasing murmur, “The fact that I can smell it in your scent.”

“So maybe I like the thrill of it,” Jeonghan replies. He raises an eyebrow in a subtle challenge. “None of the alphas I’ve slept with were as clever as you are.”

“Clever, hmm?”

“Or generous.”

“Fascinating.”

“Or attractive,” Jeonghan says, then carefully shifts his weight to straddle Joshua’s thighs, knees bracketing hips and hands coming up to brush gentle fingers over Joshua’s cheeks, “and besides, I’ve never liked knots anyway.”

“What a coincidence,” the other omega says with a quiet laugh, leaning into Jeonghan’s touch. “Neither have I.”

Jeonghan catches Joshua’s lips in a kiss that’s sweet, almost chaste, honest in its simplicity and so very fond. He starts to draw away, but Joshua chases his lips, his hands settling on Jeonghan’s waist.

A memory surfaces, Joshua’s hands in other places, wandering, exploring. 

Jeonghan’s skin is warm with his heat, but it has nothing to do with the way he suppresses a needy shiver. 

The kiss deepens, now deliciously slow. Jeonghan’s omega demands more.

Carefully, he reaches down to find the hem of Joshua’s shirt, tugging, a silent question. 

Joshua complies easily, breaking the kiss to pull the shirt over his head and set it aside. In those brief moments, Jeonghan takes in the expanse of Joshua’s skin, golden in the lamplight and familiar to his fingertips. His omega begs him to map it with his teeth and tongue.

Instead, he sheds his own sweater and finds Joshua’s lips again. The kiss becomes fervent, heated and breathless with the warmth that smolders inside of Jeonghan. It’s a fire fueled by Joshua’s scent and the way he touches like Jeonghan is worth savoring. His hands find Jeonghan’s hips, drawing him closer, dimpling his skin with pressure that whispers of reverence.

Joshua’s lips move to Jeonghan’s jaw, and Jeonghan tilts his head to bare his neck in invitation. His breath hitches as Joshua kisses his scent gland, sucking gently.

The heady scent of heat-laced pumpkin suddenly swirls around them.

“What…?” Jeonghan trails off, his mind too hazy to find the right words.

“I meant to ask you earlier,” he can hear the smile in Joshua’s voice, “have you ever been scented during your heat before? Like, actually scented.”

“No. Maybe? I don’t know.”

“Hannie,” Joshua murmurs fondly, sending a pleasant ripple of warmth through Jeonghan. “You’d know if you had, trust me. Can I show you?”

“Yes.”

“You’re sure? It gets intense.”

“Yes.”

“Okay,” Joshua laughs, a soft sound that soothes Jeonghan’s omega. “Deep breath. Relax.”

Still pleasantly hazy and trustingly pliant, Jeonghan complies. 

Joshua’s lips find his scent gland again, pressing another kiss to the sensitive spot as his fingers lace carefully into Jeonghan’s hair, guiding more than keeping still. He sucks at the skin gently, sending another shiver through Jeonghan’s body. This time he doesn’t pull away. 

The scent of pumpkin begins to thicken in the room, sweetened by hints of arousal. 

Jeonghan’s mind starts to drift, not to candle wicks and errant guilt, but rather to thoughts of Joshua. His smile, his voice, his hands, his tongue. Teeth graze against Jeonghan’s neck and a wave of delicious heat washes through him. 

He takes an unsteady breath, trying to keep his hips still and not chasing pleasure against Joshua’s lap.

With his nose so close to the other omega’s neck, Jeonghan instinctively seeks the vanilla scent he craves. Just a few days ago, it had been heady with the smell of heat and sex, and Jeonghan is quick to lose himself to the memories of it. 

The carnal urge to cover himself in Joshua’s scent washes through him. 

Jeonghan wants to surround himself with it. Drown in it. Taste it. 

He lets out a small whimper, a quiet sound of submission as his omega begs for the control that Jeonghan has never given it.

But maybe…in the comfort of a good nest and the safety of Joshua’s acceptance, Jeonghan can let go.

Quietly, gently, and completely, Jeonghan surrenders to his omega.

Drunk on Joshua’s scent and the need of his touch, his heat burning under his skin, Jeonghan reaches down between their bodies to hook his fingers in Joshua’s waistband.

“Please,” he whispers. 

“Tell me what you need, Hannie,” Joshua murmurs against his skin.

“You.”

Jeonghan palms Joshua gently through the material of his pants, and the other omega takes a sharp breath, laughing quietly, “Okay. On your back.”

Clothes are tossed aside, over the edge of the nest as Jeonghan lies back against the pillows. Joshua settles over him, his weight comfortable in its familiarity, but the feeling of his skin against Jeonghan’s thighs leaves him desperate.

Exact words are lost to the haze of his heat and the high of being scented, but Jeonghan knows that he begs, pleading softly for more as Joshua works him open patiently, murmuring reassurances between placating kisses.

Jeonghan grips Joshua’s shoulders as he slowly presses in, gentle, as always. 

He gives Jeonghan a few moments to adjust, reaching between them to find Jeonghan’s arousal with his hand. Generous, as always, too. 

Pleasure surges through Jeonghan in waves as Joshua sets a steady pace, coaxing Jeonghan closer and closer to the edge of bliss.

He finishes with a shudder and a stuttered breath, clinging to Joshua as his thoughts scatter like starlight. A few moments later, Jeonghan can feel Joshua’s pace falter, his muscles tensing.

There is no knot that catches. There is no scent of an alpha.

Only Joshua.

And he’s everything Jeonghan’s omega has ever wanted.

Slowly, Jeonghan blinks back into lucidity as Joshua buries his face into the crook of his neck, still panting quietly, warm breath against sensitive skin.

Lifting a hand, Jeonghan combs his fingers through his companion’s hair, soothing, “You were right. That was really intense.”

“Told you,” Joshua laughs, humorous despite his exhaustion.

It takes a few seconds for him to prop himself up on an elbow.

“Hi,” Jeonghan says because it’s all he can think to say as their gazes meet, the butterflies in his chest and the warmth in his cheeks unrelated to his heat.

“Hi,” Joshua says softly, sweetly, like he hadn’t just given Jeonghan the most intense intimate experience of his life.

Jeonghan reaches up, cupping Joshua’s cheek affectionately. 

Joshua tilts his head to kiss Jeonghan’s palm. 

They share a smile that feels like a promise.

“Stay here. I’m gonna go get a towel,” Joshua says, carefully shifting away.

“Okay,” Jeonghan replies, fighting the urge to pull him back down and cuddle. There’s no sense in ruining all the blankets. He smothers a quiet laugh.

After they wash up and get dressed for bed, Joshua rearranges the nest amidst fond conversation, setting aside bedding to be washed. Once he’s done, they settle back down, Jeonghan tucked close to Joshua’s chest.

“Goodnight,” Joshua whispers into the darkness of the room. “Wake me up if you need anything.”

“Goodnight,” Jeonghan replies softly. He smiles, even if Joshua can’t see it.

Sleep has never found him so easily.

Soft gray light slips through the window blinds, pulling Jeonghan slowly from his dreams. He still feels warm with his heat, but not uncomfortable. Just pleasantly sore. Beside him, now facing away, Joshua’s breathing is deep and even, calming.

Jeonghan longs to move closer, to hide his face against Joshua’s back and breathe in the scent of vanilla and sleep, but he hesitates.

Midnight sheets are different from morning sheets, and he feels conflicted about giving in to his omega’s pouting to wake his companion. So instead, Jeonghan reluctantly slips out of the nest to use the restroom and brush his teeth. He pauses when he looks in the mirror and sees the mark on his neck over his scent gland, noticeably red but not angry.

Curious, he touches it and winces at the sensitivity. It sends a spark of pleasure through him, heat pooling low in his abdomen at the thought that Joshua was the person who made it. 

Jeonghan huffs a soft laugh. 

It’s too early for sex.

But never before has he felt this way on the third day of his heat. It’s new, almost exciting. 

“There you are,” Joshua says with a small laugh, appearing in the doorway, his eyes fighting to stay open and his voice raspy with sleep.

“Where else would I be?” Jeonghan teases.

“Hiding in the kitchen cabinets? I don’t know.”

They share a giggle and Joshua walks over, hugging him from behind and nuzzling into the crook of Jeonghan’s neck. Jeonghan tilts his head, a silent invitation, and the sweet smell of pumpkin and vanilla permeate the room.

It’s a scent that’s starting to feel like home.

Jeonghan gives himself one more day to let the lingering heat pheromones dissipate before he returns to work. 

He hums a happy tune as he lets himself into the shop, noting the neatness of the displays and the fact that the building is still standing. Chuckling, he opens the door to the back offices and is surprised to find the lights already on. 

Familiar voices travel down the hallway, as does the smell of fresh baked goods.

“So, what’d I miss?” he asks as he stops in the doorway.

Soonyoung, Mingyu, and Vernon look up from the box of assorted pastries and muffins, surprised. There’s a few pieces of paper taped together on the nearby wall adorned with the words “WELCOME BACK” written in colorful markers. A few breath-filled balloons hang around the sign.

“You’re early,” Mingyu says.

“Thought I’d have a lot to catch up on,” Jeonghan shrugs.

“Welcome back!” Soonyoung yells excitedly, and all four of them burst into bright laughter.

Jeonghan has never felt so missed and platonically loved. He hugs each of his friends amidst equal amounts of thanking and teasing, then they dig into the baked goods, bantering and bickering and trying not to spill crumbs on the work table. Jeonghan had missed them too.

“Who made the sign?” he asks eventually.

“Soonyoung,” Vernon replies first.

“Me,” Soonyoung sing-songs anyway. “Do you like it?”

“Was it on company time?” Jeonghan teases.

“It was after my shift, so I’m charging overtime for it.”

They giggle, and Jeonghan replies fondly, “I love it. Thank you.”

“The whole thing was Mingyu’s idea, though,” Vernon says. 

“Cute. I appreciate it,” Jeonghan offers Mingyu a smile.

“Well, we appreciate everything you do,” Mingyu beams.

“And we wanted to celebrate you getting laid,” Soonyoung nods.

Vernon almost falls out of his chair laughing, Jeonghan smothers his own laugh, and Mingyu gasps, scandalized.

“Oh stop, I’m kidding.”

“Are you? Are you really?” 

As they continue bickering, Jeonghan turns to Vernon.

“Is there anything I need to know about before the shop opens today?”

Composure gathered, the young alpha thinks for a moment, “Some people have been asking about the forest candles—y’know, we started the ad campaign online yesterday per the schedule. But other than that, I don’t think so.”

Right. The candles.

Jeonghan can’t even remember how much progress he’s made on them, only that he’d been painfully uninspired.

“Okay, that’s good,” Jeonghan nods. He casts a glance at Mingyu and Soonyoung, who are now playfully wrestling, before continuing quietly, “And how are things with Seungkwan?”

Vernon seems unbothered, as he usually is, “We talked a few days ago. We’re dating now—”

“You what?” Soonyoung gasps, immediately disengaging from Mingyu, who stumbles.

The youngest alpha shrugs, but there’s a bit of pride in his tone, a pleased quirk to his smile, “He’s my boyfriend.”

“And you were gonna tell me this when?”

“Stop being so nosy,” Mingyu laughs, grabbing at Soonyoung again.

“He’s our friend! Of course I’m gonna be nosy.”

“What changed his mind?” Jeonghan asks, ignoring them.

“Well, Seungkwan told me that we’d just kinda been friends with benefits for so long that he wanted to be sure I’d commit to more.”

“That’s reasonable,” Mingyu says.

“He wanted you to chase him,” Soonyoung adds bluntly, cackling.

“Pretty much, yeah,” Vernon nods. “So I did.”

“Figuratively or literally?” Jeonghan teases.

For the first time since Jeonghan has known him, Vernon smiles mischievously, “For that, you’ll have to ask Seungkwan.”

Soonyoung pounces, shaking Vernon’s shoulders and yelling incomprehensibly with his excitement. Vernon just laughs, calm as ever.

Later that afternoon, Joshua and Wonwoo stop by for lunch. The former, of course, gets stuck at the door as he holds it open for two endearingly nice elderly women, polite as ever.

“Hey Wonwoo.”

“Hi Jeonghan.”

“Thanks for covering Joshua’s shift the other day.”

Wonwoo gives him a knowing smile, “No trouble at all. I’m glad it worked out.”

“Also, I never asked—how are things with you and Mingyu after, ah, what happened with those women? They won’t be coming back, but I want you to know you’re always welcome here.”

“We’re fine,” Wonwoo says, his tone truthful and objective. “No one got hurt. And honestly? The only reason I’d care about any of it is if it affected your business.”

“It hasn’t. Don’t worry.”

“Good,” Wonwoo offers him a small smile. “Then no harm, no foul.”

His attention is pulled away as the door to the offices opens, letting out a rush of fresh coffee scent and a happy coo as Mingyu hurries around the counter to give Wonwoo a hug. Jeonghan leaves them to their conversation and turns his gaze to Joshua.

“Hey beautiful,” Joshua winks as he leans against the counter.

Jeonghan smothers a laugh, “Hey handsome. It’s been a while.”

“Not too long. You still smell like me.”

Jeonghan shushes him, but they both end up giggling and blushing.

“Hey, stop flirting in the storefront,” Mingyu calls over at them, obviously trying to hide a laugh. “Get a room.”

“I heard the supply closet is pretty nice,” Wonwoo adds flatly.

Mingyu breaks and laughs so hard he doubles over. Wonwoo chuckles and pats the alpha’s back.

Jeonghan smiles innocently, “Okay. Mingyu’s in charge then—”

“But I’m on break,” Mingyu pouts.

Joshua sighs dramatically, looking at Jeonghan, “Looks like we’ll just have to wait.”

“They’re going to be an absolute nightmare together,” Wonwoo teases. “I can already tell.”

“Hurry and go eat before I change my mind,” Jeonghan fires back affectionately.

Mingyu and Wonwoo quickly disappear into the back offices, leaving Joshua and Jeonghan alone in the shop.

“So how’s business today? Looks like they did okay without you,” Joshua says, glancing around the store.

“They’re wonderful employees, and even better friends,” Jeonghan replies. He continues humorously after a beat, “But don’t tell them I said that. They’ll ask me for a raise.”

“Your secret’s safe with me.”

“Other than that, everything’s been fine. I just need to finish up that new forest scent collection.”

“Still?” Joshua asks, genuinely surprised.

Jeonghan scrunches his nose, amused, “I got distracted.”

“Oh. Right, okay.”

“I could use some company. Maybe a second opinion, if you have the time.”

Joshua hums as he pretends to think about it, “Sure, but only if I can bring my guitar.”

“Will I have to pay you?”

“Per strum, like usual.”

They share a laugh, then Joshua gestures to the door to the back offices, “Alright, let me go grab our food before we run out of time—”

“Shua.”

“Hmm?”

Jeonghan leans across the counter, his fingers finding the front of Joshua’s shirt and gently tugging him closer. They kiss, chaste and sweet, in the pastel afternoon of a candle shop that had once provided comfort for everyone except the candlemaker.

But things are different now. A good kind of different.

As Jeonghan pulls away, he can’t help but smile as a realization quietly settles into his thoughts.

I’m falling in love with him.

Joshua mirrors his smile easily, bright like a sunrise and the best part of forever.

And maybe…maybe he’s falling in love with me too.