Chapter Text
Neteyam sat in the dimness of his small apartment, his back against the couch, his phone glowing faintly in his hands. He'd been staring at it for the past fifteen minutes, not moving a single muscle beyond his thumbs.
A single sentence was written on the screen:
[I need to talk to you]
He had typed and deleted it three times. He had typed it again.
His thumb hovered over the send button, but he didn't dare even press it and then delete the message, but that would be more pathetic than not sending it at all.
— He's not going to read it... -. He murmured, in a low, almost tired voice. His tone wasn't angry, but rather resigned. He knew that if Ao'nung wanted to ignore him, he would, he was absolutely sure of that. To be honest, he was tired of feeling like he was always the one reaching out.
He sighed. He dropped his head back against the back of his head and closed his eyes, his cell phone still on on his chest. It was then that someone knocked on the door.
Neteyam sat up immediately, as if jolted out of a dream. He blinked, confused. At this hour, no one would come looking for him, much less someone who hadn't sent a text message first (he thought it might be someone in my family, although it would still be very odd if they hadn't notified him).
Another knock. This time louder.
Neteyam stood up, his heart racing for no apparent reason, and walked toward the door with slow, cautious steps. He turned the handle, and there he was.
Soaked in rage, in the night, and in something he didn't dare name.
— Ao'nung...? -. He asked, unsure whether he should feel relieved or terrified by the boy's presence. — What are you doing here? -. Neteyam asked, his voice low, almost breathless.
Ao'nung didn't respond immediately. He looked at him. He just looked at him, his chest heaving wildly, as if he'd run all the way there without pausing to think. And perhaps he had.
— You... -. Was all Ao'nung said upon seeing him, before taking a step inside without waiting for an invitation. — I came to do it -.
— What?! -. Neteyam hadn't known this kind of situation was when he looked at the Omega in the doorway. He hadn't thought he'd hear anything like that. — Do what? But you're not even in heat -.
— I came to kill you -. Ao'nung blurted out, with a calmness that only made the intensity in his eyes more unsettling.
Neteyam blinked, taking a half step back, more puzzled than scared. — What do you mean? -. He raised his voice, his pulse racing.
But before Ao'nung could open his mouth to say whatever was stuck in his throat, a tired, cracked voice sounded from across the hall.
— Will you all shut up already?! Some of us are trying to sleep! If you keep up the drama, I'm going to call the landlord boy, and this time I mean it! -.
Neteyam cursed under his breath. — Perfect... -. He muttered, not giving Ao'nung any more time to react, as he was already about to launch himself at the middle-aged man.
Neteyam swallowed and reacted quickly. He grabbed Ao'nung's arm and pulled him inside without thinking twice. He gently closed the door, still staring at the Omega, who was now standing in the middle of his living room with his arms crossed.
— Are you crazy? -. Neteyam whispered, more frustrated than annoyed. — You come in the middle of the night and say you're going to kill me? What's wrong with you? -.
— You! You're passing me by! -. Ao'nung blurted, his voice cracking in a strange mix of anger and something that sounded too much like desperation.
His eyes were bright, his lips tense, and his chest was rising and falling as if he'd run miles to get there, even though it was true. Neteyam looked at him silently, not saying anything right away; rather, he didn't know what to say, just watched him with a frown.
And then, unhurriedly, he approached and took the Omega's hands. Ao'nung tensed immediately, as if the contact burned him. He even struggled a little, though he didn't put up much resistance either.
— Come on, now sit down -. Neteyam urged, nodding at the chair.
— I don't want to sit down -.
— I do want you to -.
Ao'nung opened his mouth to protest, but Neteyam gently pushed him back onto the armchair, forcing him to sink into it. Ao'nung hesitated for a moment, but his body gave way before his pride. He sank down into the armchair as if his legs no longer responded.
— Now you're going to explain -. Neteyam continued, bending down a little to be at his eye level. — And you're going to do it without shouting, is that okay? -.
Neteyam sat opposite him, on the edge of the low table. He looked at him silently. Not with judgment, nor with anger at the time when he had arrived. He just looked at him with that calmness of him that Ao'nung found unbearable.
— What are you doing here? Do you need something? -. Neteyam asked gently.
Ao'nung opened his mouth, but closed his eyes, then clenched his fists on his knees and barely responded in a whisper. — I couldn't stop thinking about you... I was going crazy, and that bothers me -.
— And why does it bother you? -. Neteyam asked, barely leaning forward. His voice was so low that he seemed afraid any louder volume would break something delicate between them at that moment.
Ao'nung swallowed. He didn't want to answer. He didn't want to be there. He didn't want his chest to feel like this, burning and tense at the same time. — You asked me, 'What was our relationship?'" -. He finally spat out, with a trembling he couldn't hide. — I still think I can solve it with my willpower -. Ao'nung continued, finally looking up. His eyes shone, and the frown seemed carved with fire on his face. — But because of you, I feel sick... -. His voice broke for a second. — When I think of you or remember you in my heat, I can no longer control it -.
The last words hung in the air, like an arrow that had found its target and now vibrated in the center of the silence. Ao'nung was breathing rapidly and his hands were still clenched into fists, but it didn't seem to be out of rage (at least that's what Neteyam thought).
Neteyam stared at him without blinking. He didn't take a step back, but he didn't come closer either. There was something in his eyes, a tense calm that wasn't indifference... but something deeper, something Ao'nung didn't want to name.
— Ao'nung... -. His voice was low, almost a whisper, but enough to make the other tense even more.
The silence returned. Longer. Heavier. And then, without warning, Ao'nung stood up from the chair.
Neteyam didn't have time to react before seeing him pull a metal tube from the sleeve of his hoodie. The movement was so natural, so quick, that for a second the boy doubted he'd imagined it, until his instinct forced him to move, narrowly avoiding the blow the Omega had thrown directly at his head. Instead, he only broke a glass Neteyam had on the armrest.
(Did he always keep it hidden there?)
— That's why you must disappear -. Ao'nung said, the firmness of his words contrasting with the slight tremor in his breathing.
Neteyam took a step back, his hands open, trying to gauge him so he wouldn't receive another blow. — Wait, wait... I don't understand a bit of what you're saying -.
— Of course you understand -. Ao'nung spat, taking a step forward, the tube still in his hand, but not lifting it this time. — Ever since you showed up, everything's... crooked. I'm crooked. And I want you to fix it or destroy it completely because all of this is pissing me off -.
Neteyam felt his heart race. There was anger in those words, yes, a part of him knew this was the opportunity to say everything, to confess, to break down that wall between them. Neteyam swallowed, the words on the tip of his tongue, until the thunderous knocking on the door made them both jump.
Ao'nung turned his head toward the sound, still breathing heavily. Neteyam looked too, his pulse racing, feeling the tension break but not disappear, hanging in the air, waiting for the moment to fall again.
A second knock on the door sounded even louder.
— Keep that damn noise down! -. A gruff voice shouted from the other side. The neighbor. The same one who had complained earlier when the Omega had arrived.
Ao'nung let out a sort of grunt, almost incredulous, raising a hand to his face. The tension transformed into a strange mix of embarrassment and frustration.
— Great -. Th Omega muttered, taking a step back. — What a fucking pain with that old man -.
Neteyam took a deep breath, as if counting to ten. — I'll go talk to him, I'll resolve this quickly -. He said, already heading for the door.
But the "quick" literally went to hell as soon as the door opened. As soon as the neighbor saw Neteyam, his gaze hardened. And when he noticed Ao'nung behind him, it twisted into a grimace full of disdain.
— Enough of your scandal! -. Said the neighbor, an older man with a furrowed brow, his gaze going straight to the Omega, sharp and laced with the most prejudiced of middle-aged men. — And you... -. He spat the word out as if it tasted bitter. — …You should learn to behave. Decent Omegas don’t make themselves heard in the middle of the night, much less yell at an Alpha -.
Ao’nung felt a flash of heat rise to his head. Neteyam tensed, mentally cursing the man, but still trying to remain calm. — It’s none of your business how we talk or at what time -. Neteyam replied, firmly but not shouting, firmly, not shouting, although he was dangerously close to doing so.
— Of course it is, when I have to listen to the nonsense of an Omega whining as if it were important at this time of night -. The old man added, crossing his arms, with that arrogant expression that was left over from to his provoking.
That was enough.
Ao'nung took a step forward, muscles tense, teeth clenched, chest rising and falling sharply. — Say something like that again and I assure you, he won't like it -. He snarled, revealing his canines. His tone was low, almost "docile" in appearance, but it was definitely a threat.
The old man didn't flinch; on the contrary, his gaze grew colder. — I know what you're all like -. He spat, brazenly examining him up and down.
— Always butting in where you're not wanted. Omegas like you only bring trouble -.
Ao'nung felt a thick heat rise from his stomach to his throat, a mixture of rage and something else he didn't want to name. He took another step, but stopped when the old man turned his head toward Neteyam.
— You look like a decent lad -. He said, nodding his chin at Ao'nung, though the gesture was more like an accusation than a simple indication. — You're going to have trouble if you get close to someone who looks like a criminal -. He paused before blurting out the most abhorrent thing Neteyam had ever heard. — We the Alphas can get anyone to calm our instincts. Don't waste your time and buy someone better instead -.
The sentence fell like a stone in water, heavy and sinking fast. Ao'nung felt the ringing in his ears increase, his blood pounding so hard he could almost hear it.
— I don't think you understand -. Neteyam chimed in, with a calmness so controlled it was more threatening than any shout. — It's none of your business who I associate with. If you have a problem with noise, don't worry... We'll keep quiet -.
The old man frowned. But before he could reply, Neteyam took a step toward Ao'nung, standing beside him, so close that their arms almost touched. A clear gesture: we're in this together.
— Ah... I see. That boy must be very sexually satisfying for you to defend him like that, but surely there must be better ones -. The man spat, with a crooked smile that made Neteyam grunt in pure disgust.
The old man didn't get to finish his next sentence.
The air grew tense. Ao'nung, who until that moment had contained his rage, slowly grabbed a metal tube resting on his leg and raised it without taking his eyes off the man, and with a sharp thud, he split the table in front of them. The wood creaked along with the shards of glass on the floor and opened as if it had been paper.
The silence that followed was almost chilling (in fact, it was).
— Keep talking... -. His voice was deeper and more dangerous for how low it sounded. — And YOUR head will be the next to crack like that table -.
The old man swallowed. He took a step back, barely, as if the air had become too heavy around him. Ao'nung moved forward, his shadow completely covering him.
— Every Alpha I've ever met is just like you, and it sickens me... -. The Omega spat, his eyes blazing with fury. — But Neteyam is definitely a thousand times better than you, you stupid old shit -.
Wow, he didn't even wait for a reply. He turned abruptly and shooed the man away with his elbow, his pulse still racing and rage in his chest. The old man stared after him, muttering something unintelligible before turning to the young Alpha with a scowl.
— I'm going to complain to the landlord boy -. The man said, arms crossed, as if his authority could match that of the Omega.
— Do what you want -. Neteyam replied with a calm that seemed icy, but his tone was firm. — I'm also going to file a complaint about your behavior. Because, curiously, no other neighbor came to complain about the "noise"... So this seems more like a case of discrimination, or some personal annoyance at something we're doing -.
The old man opened his mouth to retort, but Neteyam had already turned to follow Ao'nung, leaving his neighbor to swallow his words.
Ao'nung strode forward, without looking back. The air outside was fresher, but it didn't manage to cool the heat burning beneath his skin. His hands were still clenched into fists, as if he were still ready to break something. He should definitely have hit the man, not smashed the table.
— Ao'nung," Neteyam's voice sounded behind him, firm but not raised in tone.
A few seconds later, a strong hand grabbed his arm, forcing him to turn around. Ao'nung tensed, his eyes burning like embers. For a moment, neither of them spoke. The silence was so tight it seemed if either of them breathed any louder, the whole thing would explode.
— Forgive me for what that man said -. Neteyam said finally, without letting go. His voice held no anger; it sounded concerned. And that, precisely that, was what irritated Ao'nung the most.
— Ha!? And why are you apologizing for? -. He snapped, trying to wriggle out of his grasp. — I'm angry with him, not you -.
Neteyam didn't loosen his grip. — I know, but I don't like you having to hear things like that. You shouldn't have to put up with them -.
Ao'nung clicked his tongue, looking away. The heat in his chest wouldn't go away. — Tsk... I'm not a child you have to protect. I can handle myself. It bothers me more that you said anything when I was offending you -.
Neteyam watched him for a second before responding with a small laugh before loosening her grip on Ao'nung. — I think fighting that man would have caused us both trouble anyway. It was better to just scare him -.
Ao'nung frowned in confusion. — So? Are you worried about what that old man thinks? -.
— Not at all, perhaps the complaint he could file if either of us hit him -. Neteyam said with a dry, humorless laugh. — I'm more worried about what might happen to you, if I'm honest -. Neteyam said without hesitation. His tone wasn't dramatic or condescending, just direct.
And that, for some reason, prevented any discussion. For a moment, neither of them said anything else. The hallway was silent, save for the distant sound of water hitting the pilings of a nearby building. Was it going to rain? Ao'nung felt that if he stood there a second longer, he'd end up saying something he didn't want to, so he thought for a moment before answering.
— The truth is, I don't care what anyone says about me... -. Ao'nung said, turning the metal tube in his hands as if it were a simple toy. — Much less if it's some shitty Alphas -. His voice sounded nonchalant, but the restless movement of his fingers betrayed otherwise. — I've met many, and believe me, they're not exceptional at all -. He paused briefly. Then, as if to finish the blow, he looked up and met his gaze directly. — You're not exceptional either. Although... -. A small smile curved his lips before he continued. — You buy me food, which is why I don't dislike you so much -.
Neteyam held his gaze for a moment before laughing a little nervously, like a disguised sigh. — I suppose you're right -.
Ao'nung looked away, pressing his lips together before speaking. — Even though being an Omega bothers me a lot -. He said in a lower tone. It wasn't a subject he was ashamed of, but discussing it openly with Neteyam made his stomach itch. — I would never say something like 'I'm an Omega, so there's no alternative' to anything anyone said to me -. He paused, letting the echo of his words settle in the air. "Omega or not, I'm me, and I'm going to do what I want anyway. By the way, here's the table -. He said, taking out his wallet and taking out some bills. How much? He doesn't know, but he wasn't going to owe that silly Alpha anything for a decrepit old man.
Neteyam watched him silently for a few seconds. Then, a laugh escaped his throat, low at first, but soon turning into something close to a laugh. That made Ao'nung frown even more; he didn't find it funny at all, and yet, something about the tone of that laugh felt unnervingly familiar. What the Omega said reminded him of that conversation they had had on the bridge.
— I am me, and I will decide what happens to me. You are you too -. It was the same thing he had murmured softly that time.
— Really, that part of you is so... -. Neteyam bowed his head slightly, smiling.
— Ha? -. Ao'nung looked at him, puzzled for a moment. — What's so funny? -. He frowned.
Neteyam gently shook his head, still smiling. — It's just... you remind me of that time on the bridge. You said the same thing back then. You've always been like that -.
Ao'nung swallowed; for some reason, he felt nervous now, and he moved his hands away with the money. — So what? -.He murmured, trying to sound disinterested -.
Neteyam smiled, barely. — And that I like you, Ao'nung -.
The silence that followed was so thick that Ao'nung felt as if his breath had caught in his throat. His mind filled with possible responses: an insult to break the moment or a push to push him away, but neither came out.
— I do these things with you during your heat, because I'm in love with you -. He said calmly, as if it weren't something he'd just dropped, a kind of bombshell between them. — I... I want to be your mate -.
Ao'nung blinked. A single word seemed to echo in his head; it was almost ridiculous the way it echoed inside him.
— Mate? -. He repeated, as if testing the weight of the word on his tongue.
Neteyam held his gaze before answering. — Yes, as your mate. You wouldn't have to worry about drinking suppressants anymore, and I wouldn't get all worked up over other omegas' pheromones -. Neteyam didn't move; he just watched him silently, waiting for some reaction from Ao'nung. — To be with you for life -.
Ao'nung swallowed. The warmth in his chest mingled with a strange chill in the pit of his stomach. He wanted to say that was stupid, that Neteyam didn't know what he was saying.
— But I'm not saying this out of obligation, not out of instinct, not even because I know something that suits us both, but because I want to be with you, because I choose you -.The silence that followed was thick. Ao'nung felt a strange heat rise up his neck to his ears, and he didn't know if it was anger or nerves. — I want us to be a couple like our parents -. Neteyam replied, without taking his eyes off the Omega.
It was almost childish, Ao'nung thought, for him to say something like, "I want a love like yours". And yet, the way he said it didn't sound naive, but absolutely serious.
Neteyam took a deep breath and added. — That's what I think -.
Ao'nung blinked, as if unsure of what to do with those words. His instinct was screaming at him to reject them, or to throw a hurtful remark at him. But something in his chest kept him from opening his mouth.
Neteyam took a step closer, leaning slightly so that her voice reached only him. — Do you understand, Ao'nung? -. He asked, still staring at him.
Ao'nung held his gaze for only a second before shifting it to the ground. His shoulders relaxed slightly, not because he was calmer, but because he didn't know what to do with the pressure in his chest.
— I... -. He said softly. — ...I don't quite understand -.
Neteyam didn't frown or show any frustration; on the contrary, his expression softened slightly, and he took a step closer, close enough for Ao'nung to feel the warmth of his presence.
— I see... But I want you to think this through properly -. He said calmly, with a small sigh before continuing. — Think about how you feel about me... about what you want us to be -.
The Omega swallowed, feeling the words catch in his throat.
— And no matter how long it takes -. Neteyam continued, without taking her eyes off him. — I won't force you because I don't want to pressure you either, but I want your answer, when it comes, to be yours -. He said as she placed her hands on his arms and leaned closer to the Omega's face.
Ao'nung frowned, feeling an uncomfortable heat rise at the back of his neck. He took a step back, but Neteyam didn't let go, and that touch—warm, firm, without being possessive—stirred him up.
Neteyam didn't take her eyes off him. And then, without warning, Neteyam closed the distance. His hand barely touched the Omega's jaw, a careful gesture. Ao'nung felt the contact like a shock running down his spine. His heart pounded, and before he could react, Neteyam's lips landed on his.
It was a brief kiss, clumsy with nervousness, but it was enough to send heat rushing up Ao'nung's neck until his ears turned red. His breath caught, and before he could react, Neteyam slowly pulled away. Ao'nung didn't know whether to close his eyes or push him away; in the end, he just stood there, his eyes fluttering, not with regret, but with a different kind of fear: the fear of having revealed himself too much.
— Well, that's all I wanted to say... -. He murmured, his voice barely a whisper, and without waiting for a reply, he took a step back, then another, until he turned and walked back toward the apartments.
Ao'nung stood there, still feeling the echo of that touch on his lips. Shame hit him suddenly, and his legs gave way; he sank to the floor, resting his elbows on his knees and burying his face in his hands.
The heat in his chest wouldn't fade. He didn't know if he wanted to scream, laugh, or run after him. He only knew that Neteyam had taken something with her... and that he had been left with a burning emptiness.
°*.╰─────.••✿••.─────╯.*°
The sun was just beginning to filter through the cracks in the window when Ao'nung opened his eyes, though in reality he had barely slept at all. His body was restless, too hot, his breathing heavy, his pulse irregular.
He turned in bed, gritting his teeth as the sheets tangled around his legs. It was useless. The heat inside him consumed him, and no matter how hard he tried to ignore it, every time he closed his eyes, the image of the kiss returned. Neteyam's hand on his face. The weight of her gaze. The touch of her lips.
— Damn... -. He murmured, burying his face in the pillow. But the scent was still there, lingering in his memory, mixed with his.
"Suddenly my heat returned again..." -. He thought, searching for another position to lie down.
He writhed in the sheets, squeezing his thighs together, trying to find a position that would calm him, but everything made him worse. And, as if the universe was trying to torture him, every time he closed his eyes, he wanted to
Let it all end.
He moaned loudly, and I began stroking his member up and down. You could feel his puffs of air against his pillow, against your very nose. After he slipped his hand under his sweatpants, one of his middle fingers rubbed around the pink rim, pushing it down further with each moan.
A soft knock on the door brought him out of his thoughts. He stopped and swallowed, trying to calm the trembling in his hands, but the echo of Neteyam's kiss still throbbed in his memory like a fire impossible to extinguish.
— Ao'nung -. Ronal's voice sounded firm on the other side of the door, though it held a tinge of veiled tenderness. — Are you okay? -.
The Omega tensed. He didn't want to speak, didn't want to open his mouth; his throat felt tight, as if any word would betray him. He remained silent, hoping she thought he was asleep.
— Son -. Ronal insisted after a few seconds, this time a little softer. — I have to go to work, and I might not be back until tomorrow -. She continued. — I already told the school you won't be attending today, so you don't have to worry about that -. She paused briefly before continuing, knowing that even if she told him not to leave the house and stay put, Ao'nung would clearly do the exact opposite of what she asked. — I thought... Maybe you needed to rest, so please stay home. At least today -.
He swallowed, squeezing his eyes shut. He didn't want to talk. He didn't want to see anyone, much less explain what the hell was wrong with him. The silence stretched, and Ronal knocked again, more gently this time.
— The suppressants are in the drawer under the phone. If you need anything, I'll be out for a few more minutes before I leave -.
— No... -. He managed to say, his voice hoarse and muffled. — I just... want to be alone -.
Ronal rested his hand against the door and let out a resigned sigh, stubborn as his precious son was. — Neteyam is at school, isn't he? -. She asked then, tentatively probing her question since Ao'nung was definitely not in the mood. — Do you want me to call him when his classes are over? -.
— No! -. The answer came out too fast, too strongly, like a whiplash, and barely finished saying it when Ao'nung regretted it, bit his lip, and turned his face toward the wall, as if he could hide the blush rising to his cheeks.
Ronal didn't answer immediately, not because she lacked the words, but because she knew that if he pressed him further, she would only make him withdraw even further.
— Okay -. He finally said in a small whisper, as if speaking to an animal. — I won't call him -.
Ao'nung hugged his knees to his chest, hiding his face. He didn't want them to see him like this. He didn't want anyone to know what was burning inside him and making him feel sick.
— I'll trust you'll rest -. He said finally, before turning toward the exit. — Don't overexert yourself -. His voice softened even further.
He didn't respond. He didn't even move. He only clutched the blankets tighter to his chest, as if that might soothe some of what he felt, whether it was the heat or the terrible headache that tormented him. When he heard the front door close behind her, Ao'nung finally let out a long sigh, his face buried in his pillows. He couldn't sleep, not even rest. Every time he closed his eyes, he saw him again. The image of Neteyam was repeated with unbearable clarity.
Ao'nung growled through his teeth and turned around abruptly, clutching the sheets as if he wanted to tear them off.
He had gone to that damned apartment with the intention of hitting him, of screaming in his face until he understood that he couldn't stand him, that he hated him, that he would leave him alone. But everything had gone wrong the moment Neteyam opened his mouth and said those strange things.
"Because I want to be with you. Because I choose you" -. He repeated in a murmur, angrily, remembering the timbre of his voice.
From that moment on, everything had gone wrong.
He hated him. He hated how he sounded, how his chest had trembled when he heard it. He hated that, from that moment on, instead of wanting to smash his face in... Now he wanted him.
His heart was beating so hard his chest hurt. He brought his hands to his face, desperate, and then, almost without thinking, he turned his head to where his phone lay on his bed. He stared at it for a moment, as if it were some kind of vermin, but the temptation was stronger.
He reached out, grabbed it roughly, and unlocked it with trembling fingers. The name appeared on the screen like a punch to the gut: Shitty Alpha.
Ao'nung hesitated for a second, took a deep breath, and then pressed the call icon. The ringtone began to ring in his ear, and with each beep, he felt himself losing control a little more.
"What the hell am I doing?" -. He thought, pressing the phone tightly to his ear. But it was too late: the call was done.
...
The murmur of voices filled the schoolyard, students chatting and laughing during recess. Neteyam sat to one side, away from the hustle and bustle, a forgotten piece of fruit in his hands. His gaze drifted off into the horizon, beyond the buildings, where the sky seemed too wide and too empty.
He thought of Ao'nung.
Of what he'd said.
"I choose you."
He'd been honest, as clear as he could be, but now all he had to do was wait. How long would it take for him to give him an answer? Hours, days, weeks? What if he never gave one?
A sigh escaped his lips. Impatience gnawed at him, but he knew he couldn't force Ao'nung. He had to let him think, process... understand. And yet, the question lingered in his mind: How long should I wait?
That's when the phone in his pocket vibrated. Neteyam pulled it out distractedly, not expecting anything important. But when he saw the name on the screen, his eyes widened.
Ao'nung.
It was the first time he'd voluntarily called him without him doing it first. Neteyam stared at him for a few seconds, incredulous, not believing that the other had finally taken the initiative.
— Ao'nung? -. He finally answered, his voice softer than he'd expected, almost a whisper that betrayed the mix of surprise and excitement he felt at that moment.
In that instant, all the thoughts he'd had about having to be patient and wait mingled with a new undercurrent: nervousness and a strange feeling of relief. Ao'nung had called him; even though he didn't yet know what he was going to say, it made him happy.
Neteyam rested his elbow on his knee and brought his hand to his face, suppressing a smile that wanted to escape.
— I didn't expect to hear you... -. He murmured, more to himself than to Ao'nung, still in mild shock from the call as his pulse quickened. — What's wrong? -. He'd hoped this was the answer to his confession, so he was excited.
On the other end of the line, there was a brief silence, filled with ragged breaths. And then Ao'nung's voice, low, raspy, and trembling. — I've been in heat... since dawn -.
— Huh?! -.
Neteyam froze. The small scream escaped him unintentionally, loud enough for those around him to look at him in surprise. He immediately turned around, trying to hide it, clumsily standing up to find a more secluded spot.
— W-what? -. He whispered, his voice cracking from a mixture of nerves and surprise. He covered his mouth with his hand, as if that would contain his reaction.
— Actually, I feel like this is the first time she's actually tried to depend on me -. He thought, somewhat frustrated.
— I'm sorry... just... -. He ran his hand over the rest of his face, trying to regain his composure. — Are you okay? -.
Ao'nung's silence on the other end wasn't entirely indifferent, to tell the truth. His breathing was uneven, as if the words weighed too heavily on him, which they did.
— No. I'm not okay... -. He finally said, his voice hoarse and low. — I need you to come to my house... -. He was more of an order than a favor, but he felt so desperate that his hand was even brushing against his crotch as he listened to that Alpha's voice.
Neteyam remained silent for a few seconds, holding the phone to his ear, listening to Ao'nung's labored breathing on the other end of the line. Every gasp tightened his chest, and the first thought that crossed his mind was to get up, run to him, and not leave him alone in that state.
In fact, he'd already opened his mouth to say it. To blurt out the phrase that escaped his lips: "I'm going there" but he stopped, swallowed, closed his eyes, and let the thought linger on the tip of his tongue.
— Neteyam? -. The Omega asked, confused, not hearing a response from the Alpha.
— Forgive me... I can't go -.
On the other end of the line, the silence was suddenly broken. Ao'nung reacted with an audible start, as if he'd been punched in the stomach.
— What? -. His voice trembled, heavy with alarm and urgency. — Why not? -. His attempt to satisfy himself while speaking to Neteyam was clouded by that horrible response.
Neteyam closed his eyes, bringing a hand to his forehead, the phone trembling in his fingers.
— ...You still haven't given me an answer -. He whispered. — I can't do these things with you -. He paused as he swallowed, his throat feeling tight. — ...If you don't love me or if you don't even like me -.
The Omega pressed his lips together, his thoughts jumbled, caught between shame, desire, and confusion.
— You mean I should stay like this?! -. He burst out suddenly, his tone cracking more like a cry for help than anger at this point. — Then what am I going to do?! -.
— I don't want you to stay like this... -. He finally replied slowly, with a tenderness that contradicted everything he'd just said. — But you'll have to forgive me, I... - His voice faltered, lowered, as if speaking from the bottom of his heart. — I want to make it very clear, that you choose me for who I am, when your heat passes, think it over properly, if it's uncontrollable, drink a suppressant. — Although he knew Ao'nung wasn't going to drink anything and preferred to continue writhing rather than administer a suppressant.
The words hung heavy in the air. Ao'nung lowered his head, resting his forehead against his pillows as he gripped the phone with sweaty fingers. His breathing was quickening, the heat was suffocating him, and yet all he wanted to hear was another sentence, anything to keep him tied to that voice.
— Neteyam... - He finally whispered, his tone much lower, almost pleading. — Don't hang up on me -.
The silence on the line stretched for an eternal second. And then, without warning, the flat tone of the terminated call filled Ao'nung's ear.
Neteyam had hung up.
The Omega's fingers tightened around the phone, his eyes flew open, and a furious heat surged through his body.
— You were the one who said you'd help me! -. He spat into the air, as if Neteyam could still hear him, his voice shaking with rage. — Besides, it's your fault he's like this, that everything's gotten worse! -. He screamed, his chest heaving violently.
"I'm going to kill him!" -.
He bolted out of bed, his legs tense, his heart pounding in his ears. He felt an uncontrollable rage. His breathing was labored, anger mingled with despair, and all he could think about was moving, burning away the feeling gnawing at his insides.
With an almost animal impulse, Ao'nung grabbed the iron pipe, his keys, and ran.
The cold air outside hit his skin, but it wasn't enough to put out the fire consuming him.
The ground rumbled beneath his feet, the air stabbing his lungs, but Ao'nung didn't stop running. His heart pounded so hard he almost mistook its echo for the pounding of his footsteps.
Neteyam.
Always him.
"I want him." "I want him." "I want him so badly."
— Damn you..." Ao'nung gasped through his teeth, speeding up even more, as if he could outrun those foolish thoughts.
Who did that stupid Alpha think he was, saying that to him? "Do something for yourself. Didn't you have willpower? Try harder." (Actually, Neteyam didn't say that; that's what Ao'nung heard.)
He didn't realize how fast he was going, or that he'd taken a wrong turn, until he ran headlong into a group of boys who seemed to be already waiting for him on the corner, the same ones who had provoked him earlier.
— Hey! -. The tallest boy growled, turning around with his friends. There were three of them, all with unfriendly looks.— What's wrong with you, idiot? Don't you look where you're going? -.
— Well, well, look who showed up! -. One of them laughed, shoving him with his shoulder.
— We thought you were hiding, Ao'nung. Do you have the courage to face us today? Let's finish what we did last time -. Another spat, blocking his way.
— Get out of my way -. He spat, his voice low and dangerous.
— We have something pending, so we'll just return the favor -.
"They're betas, aren't they? They're not very sensitive to the scent of pheromones."
Ao'nung stood up, his breathing still ragged from running, sweat burning on his forehead. The last thing he wanted was to deal with idiots, but there they were, blocking his way. His body was vibrating with frustration, and although he didn't want to fight, something in his chest screamed to vent.
—Just look... it isn't the troublesome Omega -. Said another boy who appeared behind him, crossing his arms, while the other shoved him with his shoulder.
— Hey, what's wrong with you? -. The second insisted, getting too close. — Are you wearing perfume? -.
The first inhaled brazenly, leaning toward him as if he could taste the air.
— I think it smells delicious -.
Ao'nung barely took a step back, his lungs still burning from running, his heart pounding furiously in his chest. His jaw clenched, his fingers clenching at the sides of his clothes.
— ...Ah, what a fucking wonderful day -. He muttered, his voice low but definitely laced with venom; he hated everything at that moment.
Silence lasted for a second, broken only by the two boys' mocking snickers.
— I'm very wrapped up now -. Ao'nung added with icy sarcasm, staring at them as if he could split them in two with just a glance.
The boy who'd pushed him raised his eyebrows, as if challenging him. — Oh, really? And what are you going to do? -.
— I'll kill anyone who fights me -.
°*.╰─────.••✿••.─────╯.*°
On the other hand, in the classroom at the end of class, Neteyam sat with his back stiff, his pen resting on the paper. He barely listened to what the teacher was explaining. His thoughts wouldn't leave him alone.
Neteyam closed his eyes for a moment, his jaw clenched. Now all he felt was an emptiness he didn't know how to fill. He glanced at his phone, hidden among his things, the urge to dial Ao'nung's number tickling his fingers.
He ran a hand over the back of his neck, letting out a long sigh. Maybe if he went home he could gather his thoughts; yes, he would definitely skip afternoon classes, maybe go for a walk and get away for a while. He was just about to do that when the classroom door opened and Vounglim and Uewän walked in, and Neteyam was already overwhelmed by their mere presence.
— Hey, Neteyam -. Vounglim called loudly, earning a few annoyed glances from the others. — What a horrible face you have. Trouble in paradise? -.
Neteyam blinked, surprised, and barely raised his head. — What? -.
— Ah... That's right, you and Ao'nung are already dating, aren't you? Trouble again? -. Uewän insisted, drawling the word in a mocking tone, though his eyes shone with genuine curiosity. — You've been feeling a bit off lately. How awful. If that's what being in a relationship is, I'd rather be single -.
— You're single, but it's because no one likes you -.
— It's just a lot of work. I don't want to look as miserable as Neteyam -.
A few chuckles rose from the nearby students. Neteyam immediately tensed, his posture now erect, but he didn't respond right away. He just looked at them with a slight frown, though inside his heart skipped a beat; he didn't want to talk about that subject right now.
What they didn't expect was that, from the back rows, a chair would slide out with a sharp squeal. Sän'ru, with narrowed eyes and an angry expression, stared directly at him.
— What did you say? -. She asked coldly, her voice cutting through the murmur of the class. Vounglim raised his hands in a joking gesture, but Sän'ru didn't take his eyes off Neteyam. — Is it true? Do you have a boyfriend? -. She repeated, this time with a sharp edge that silenced several of those who were laughing.
Neteyam held Sän'ru's gaze, without moving. Inside, he felt a knot in his stomach, a mixture of anger and shame. He didn't want to explain himself to anyone, much less in the middle of a class full of eyes on him.
The murmur died away completely. Everyone was waiting for an answer. Neteyam felt the pressure in her chest. It wasn't that she was embarrassed by the question.
— I don't think it's any of your business, Sän'ru -.
The answer wasn't a "yes" or a "no," and that only further fueled the discomfort already hanging in the air. Sän'ru narrowed her eyes, leaning back against the desk in front of her with her arms crossed.
— Of course it is. I feel like a fucking idiot for expecting anything from you -. She retorted, barely containing her anger. — Because if what they're saying is true, it explains so many things... -.
Neteyam took a deep breath, her back muscles stiffening. — I'm just passing, okay? I didn't mean for you to misinterpret anything else -. she replied in a firm, though low, voice, without taking her eyes off Sän'ru. It didn't sound like an embarrassed confession, but more like a kind of challenge.
A couple of muffled gasps were heard among the students. Someone laughed nervously.
Sän'ru narrowed her eyes even further, leaning forward slightly. — So it's true... Shit -. Her tone dripped with contempt. — I suppose it must be that troublesome Omega I've heard about, right? You must really like him, don't you? -.
Neteyam didn't blink. Not even at the nervous laughter that arose around them, like whispers floating in the air. — Watch what you say, Sän'ru -. He replied, her voice still low, but with a steely edge that left no room for mockery.
The girl smiled cruelly, tilting her head as if seeking to provoke her further.
— And why? Am I going to hurt your Omega's feelings? -. She spat maliciously. The murmur among the students grew, some covering their mouths, others pushing each other to get a better look at the two arguing.
Neteyam felt his hands tense at his sides, his nails pressing against his palms. — You talk too much about someone you don’t even know -. Neteyam said finally, her tone dry and needless to rise to command silence. His gaze fixed on Sän’ru seemed to want to pierce through him. — So yes. I care. Much more than you could possibly understand -.
The circle of students fell silent for a moment. The air had grown thick, thick with tension, as if everything could shatter in the next second.
Sän’ru clenched her jaw, clearly uncomfortable, but unwilling to back down. Her brow furrowed further, and she clicked her tongue in disdain. — Tsk… This discussion isn’t worth my time. You’ve lost what little grace you had -. She said before leaving the room.
Neteyam didn’t move an inch until he saw Sän'ru's silhouette disappear into the crowd, her footsteps retreating heavily against the ground. Only then did he allow the air held in his chest to rush out, but his hands remained clenched, his nails digging into the skin of his palms.
The silence in the circle was almost deafening. No one dared to say anything, not even look at him directly; several students lowered their gaze, uncomfortable with what they had just witnessed. It wasn't common to see Neteyam speak so harshly about someone; he still felt the tension in his shoulders when Vounglim appeared out of nowhere, lightly patting him on the back as if to shake off his bad mood.
— Hey, bro, stop that funeral face -. He said with a broad smile, although his eyes showed he had perfectly noticed what had happened. Uewän crossed his arms at his side, arching an eyebrow. — Yeah, you'll get wrinkles if you keep frowning so hard -. He added, half jokingly, half seriously.
Neteyam looked at them with a hint of disbelief, but appreciated the attempt to lighten the atmosphere. He took a deep breath. — That wasn't what I expected to hear today, to end up arguing with Sän'ru -. He murmured, his voice lower. Then he looked up, as if looking for a distraction. — How about we go get something? Coffee or something. We could invite Haaneym and Lo'ak, that way we could do something more. I want to get rid of that horrible taste in my mouth -.
— No -. Vounglim interrupted quickly, raising his hand as if cutting through the air. His expression was fleeting, barely a second, but Neteyam grasped it: he was hiding something (he's probably still mad with Haaneym). — Haaneym is busy with his own things, you know how he is and Lo'ak... well, Lo'ak has a date, according to him -. He said with a mocking gesture, as if the mere mention of it amused him. — So you have to put up with me -.
Uewän snorted, almost laughing. — And me too -.
Neteyam blinked, surprised at first, but then let out a soft laugh, his first in hours. — All right, all right... Just the three of us then -.
— That's it, so it's my treat -. Vounglim said as he put an arm around Neteyam's shoulders and gently pushed him forward.
— It's the first time you've ever bought something -. Neteyam said with a smile.
— Well... It'll be good for you to clear your head, because you were so close to ripping that chick's throat out -.
Uewän paced to the side, his hands in his pockets. — I admit, you surprised me I didn't think you'd explode like that, Neteyam -.
— I didn't explode... -. He replied, pursing his lips, though he knew he didn't sound convincing.
— Uh-huh," Vounglim crooned, amused. "But anyway, let's stop talking about that. Let's go before I crave more than coffee."
┏━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━┓
Please let me know if there are any spelling mistakes so I can correct them, both in Spanish and English (especially for my Ao3 audience). I'm a semi-dyslexic person (I'm not diagnosed, but there seems to be something wrong), and I see things the first time I read them and feel that I've written them correctly and that they make sense to me.
BUT THEN I REALIZE IT'S WRONG after reading it 5 or more times. That's why I'm considering editing all my published work.
How miserable of me.
So, please let me know if there are any mistakes so I can correct them. I'll try to improve. Thanks.
I SWEAR AO'NUNG IS ABOUT TO SAY HE LIKES NETEYAM.
Neteyam is a gentleman; he obviously prefers formalizing their relationship rather than engaging in horizontal bachata (coitus) without feelings. 💋💋💋
Please, Vounglim, sort yourself out and admit that you were the idiot and stupid one.
WOOO I was planning to upload this chapter on my birthday, August 13th (I'm getting older now. Damn it), but I got busy with school and they started ordering a lot of stuff (double fuck). Even though I had a good time, I usually have a bad time on my birthdays, but friends congratulated me and gave me Jell-O, and on the 16th they threw me a birthday party, and it was the most RANDOM and RANCIOUS thing in the world.
I LOVED IT.
We dressed up as clowns, like in the movie Chicuarotes, ordered pizza, prepared corn on the cob, and fries. We played lottery with tequila and mezcal shots. We did a Palo Santo cleansing and got wiped out with rosemary. There were tarot readings and karaoke with music by my powerful José José. I loved it all.
I've been working on something that I sincerely hope will eventually become a successful project. I put it off for about two years and want to get back to it with a good friend of mine.
It's a Visual Novel, and I'd like you to give it a try. Here's the link to my Raven Inc. project on Tumblr: "Coffee and Red Velvet with Cream."
I'll post the links to the rest of my humble project's social media accounts later.
Please comment if you have any suggestions to spice up this humble fanfic.
Also, follow me on my social media, where I upload nice things like fan art and headcanons.
On Twitter, Instagram, and Tumblr, you can find me as:
"@Eidarnox" or the links are in my profile information.
Thanks 🌿✨
In other news, I'm currently opening commissions. If you're interested, the pricing information is on my Twitter profile under a pinned tweet to get in touch.
https://twitter.com/Eidarnox_666/status/1674480197393850388?t el=eSVYF191s5jcUcBJoI8uVA&s=19
(I'm also including the images with the information)
Please, I'm hungry.
I also now accept PayPal.
