Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It all started in high school. Felix was the transfer kid. Gorgeous, shy, radiant smile. A ray of sunshine only a few had the pleasure of being around. Alphas made him nervous, but Jeongin was one of those that he gravitated towards naturally.

Jeongin was shorter in high school, the total silly, dork type. Funny, charming in a way, liked to make others laugh and a bit of a ditz. Felix loved that about him. His heart would race when he was near and Jeongin's pheromones smelt like paradise. Coconut. One of his favorites.

He was gentle, not like the Alpha's he saw in the movies or read in romance novels, hardened, cold. Jeongin let Felix paint his nails or put star clips and bows in his hair, flaunting it proudly despite being made fun of by his friends. He'd walk Felix home, despite living the opposite direction. Send good morning and night texts and remind Felix to eat something other than instant ramen.

Their lunches at school were spent together and eventually, they'd find time on the weekends or Felix would 'help' Jeongin study at the library since he was a grade ahead. Really it was just them sitting in silence, writing little notes or reading together.

It never felt forced or like Jeongin was attempting to corner him.

Playful love. The type that made them both laugh, even if it was Jeongin pretending to land the coolest trick ever on the ice rink to fail miserably, only to make Felix laugh on Christmas Eve.

Spring before Felix's graduation, Jeongin called him to the to ride a Ferris Wheel by the pier. It was a well-known spot for good food, the ocean breeze and romance. Everyone knows what the pier is. It was just before sunset, Felix had eaten a few treats, his stomach fluttering because he already knew what was coming.

The door shuts behind them, he's seated with his back towards the sun so that it's not in his eyes. Felix tucks his black hair behind his ear, his freckled cheeks dusted pink. He's never been in this situation before, alone with an Alpha in an intimate setting. There's a moment of silence as they're settling.

"So, uh, Fi. There's something I've been—oh god, we're moving—meaning to talk to you about," Jeongin's voice cracks, finding something to focus on that doesn't show how they're ascending, very slowly.

Felix presses his lips together, torn between not ruining the moment, if one could call it that or busting out laughing, "You good?"

"Y-Yeah! Totally not thinking about how I'm trapped in a box and moving hundreds of feet in the air," Jeongin's knuckles are white from gripping the small railings near the door. When the ride stops to allows others on and off, he makes small noises of uneasiness. If Felix stares in his direction, he feigns calmness.

Once they reach the top, Felix opens his mouth to speak but Jeongin spits something out first, "I'm just going to say it! I-I like you, okay?! I planned this whole speech and forgot I hate heights. I have vertigo an-and I feel like I'd faint or that wonderful crepe we shared will end up on the floor if I didn't tell you."

Felix stares at Jeongin clinging to the bars like a scared kitten. He's torn between being horrified and utterly charmed. This is so Jeongin, "Seriously? You brought me all the way up here, practically shaking in your boots just to confess?"

"I-I thought it would be romantic and cool. It's horrifying!"

"This is very you, I love it," Regardless of Jeongin's protests to stay seated, Felix switches sides to sit near him. He smells like an onion from sweating, but he doesn't mind, "You know I would've said yes even if you didn't bring me up here, right?" Felix muses as they start their achingly slow descent.

"D-Don't tell me that now!!"

All Felix can do is laugh and lean his head over onto Jeongin's shoulder. This idiot.

***

High school sweethearts to college romance.

Felix noticed a few things as the entered into the last few years of being a teenager. Jeongin hit a growth spurt, making him the same height as Felix. Their pheromones blossomed when they spent weekends together, blending together into a perfect harmony.

Laundry became one of those things that they both started to love because it became a ritual of deep conversation and scenting clothing. When things got a little too real, like talking about their dreams, they'd both end up with pink cheeks and laughing it off.

Their dreams did align, mostly. Sometimes Jeongin would say things like how he wants a swirly slide in their future house and Felix would reply with it behind a hazard for future children. Usually, that's when the laundry ends up folded in silence and they'd retreat to the sofa to watch a movie.

Things weren't always so blissful. There were times they fought, like when Jeongin overworked himself in his second year. Always hiding away his stress and avoiding talking about it.

"You never ask me for help. I feel like you don't trust me to be there for you," Felix runs his fingers through his blonde hair out of frustration. It hurts that Jeongin hides from him, the pieces that aren't always so pretty.

Jeongin sets his pen down, snapping back, "I don't want to burden you with my problems. You already have enough on your plate."

"That's not fair. We're supposed to share our burdens, not hide them and carry them alone," Felix's chest aches. He gathers his bag he packed to stay the night and tries to walk back to the dorm alone. Of course, Jeongin doesn't let him. Not because he's controlling or wishes to fight more but because it's dark out and Jeongin doesn't want Felix walking alone.

When they reach his dorm in silence, Jeongin grabs his hand and gently pulls him back into his embrace, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you feel like I was pushing you away. I love that you care about me. Please forgive me?" His voice is wobbly.

Felix is already ugly crying and mumbling that he's sorry too. Their fight maybe lasted a whole 20 minutes before they're snuggled up in Felix's bed with puffy eyes and tangled together, clinging like they'd been apart for weeks.

Unlike high school where they had parents watching their every move, college gave them a little taste of freedom. They really didn't know what to do with themselves when it came to ruts and heats.

What they did know: They wanted to wait.

Everyone else around them had partners and jumped into bed, then it would burst into flames, sometimes in public and that scared them both.

Jeongin would come over during Felix's heat to care for him, snuggles, food, cleaning and comfort. He'd ask to be held. Felix would lie on top of him, purring away, scenting him and Jeongin would massage his scalp and plant sweet kisses. During Jeongin's ruts, Felix did the same for him.

One night, after a particularly rough heat, Felix awakens in the dead of night, covered in sweat, slick and wearing an oversized shirt with nothing underneath. He's laying directly on top of Jeongin, who's been rubbing his back and keeping watch over him. Felix lazily smiles, relaxing back into his embrace. With a groggy voice, he praises Jeongin, "You kept our promise."

"I'll never break it," He replies back, planting a tender kiss to Felix's hair. Jeongin holds him as if he's the most precious thing in the world.

There were times they got close but ultimately, restrained. Kissing, grinding, groping. The desire was there; they've talked about it. What could happen, how they think they'd like it. Talking about it builds trust and makes the wait worth it.

Felix graduates college a semester before Jeongin with a bachelor's in early education. They'll still be walking together but Felix will receive his degree first in the mail. Their parents and friends gather together at Jeongin's house for dinner, a bonfire and to celebrate. Felix's was thoroughly rosy-cheeked by all the praise. It truly was one of the happiest nights of his life.

"Where are we going?" Felix giggles at Hyunjin and Jisung, they're friends he made in college, both Omegas. He's seated in the passenger's seat of Jeongin's car, which Hyunjin is driving. The dash is dominated by Sanrio stickers that Felix put up over the past few years. Jeongin supplied them and encouraged him to 'mark his territory'.

Hyunjin smiles, "Ice cream and beautiful scenery. You'll love it, trust us."

"Yeah, Lixie!" Jisung chimes in from the back seat.

They're over dressed for ice cream, sleek button ups, dress shoes. Felix is in white, a color he loves but doesn't wear too often since it gets dirty. For now, he doesn't ask any more questions. He feels something is amiss.

He's ushered inside the indoor gardens that Jeongin and him went on a date to a few years ago. Something is definitely up. Hyunjin gives him directions to go to the gardens center, then shuts the door on him before he could ask anything else.

Inside is lush, an orange cast kisses the greenery. It's sunset. The air smells of jasmine, one of Felix's favorite floral scents. He notices it's empty, no one is around him, but he decides to trust the process. His heart echos into his ears, along with the sound of his dress shoes clinking against the stone floor.

As he reaches the center, he notices a twinkling above him, fairy lights. Coconut. Jeongin is here. Felix smiles, speeding up only a fraction to get closer to his boyfriend and to appreciate the little details. Lanterns, photos and memories dangling right above eye level.

Their first date as an official couple. It was something simple, instant ramen and the arcade. Jeongin dropped a whole bowl of ramen on the floor and cleaned it up for the poor employee.

A photo of when Jeongin moved in. Jeongin's dad took it for them, telling them how adorable they looked together. Both of their cheeks were red, and they were unnaturally posed.

The day Jeongin asked Felix out on the Ferris Wheel. Felix had a bright smile, leaning onto his shoulder while Jeongin's face was pale, but he smiled tightly.

It's happening.

In the circular center, white petals are scattered across the grey stone. The softest scent of fire, burning candles strategically placed. Flowers. Felix doesn't remember there being so many flowers around. The ceiling was glass, allowing the rays in. Tangled in the lights were handing plants and vines, curling to perfection. It's humid, comfortable. It was something ripped from a fairytale and brought to reality, the one where he gets to be with the love of his life.

Felix's throat runs tight at seeing Jeongin in the center of it all. His boyfriend, nervous but dashing. A dusty grey suit with a white button up underneath. His eyes zero in on the love of his life. He takes a moment, drinking it all up before he's striding towards Jeongin, "Hi," That's all he could manage.

"Hey, love," Jeongin takes his hand.

Felix is at a loss for words but in the best way possible, "How did—When?" He's locking eyes with Jeongin, being lead to stand in a specific place.

"Later but right now, can I have you listen to me?" Jeongin asks with a smile, "I practiced this three times in the mirror every day for weeks. I-I don't know if it'll be perfect, it probably won't but I'll do my best," He says sheepishly, taking both of Felix's hands in his.

"Felix. I remember when I first saw you in high school. You were so beautiful, radiant and smart and I was, well, I was me. There was no reason I could think of that you'd like being around me, but you did. I was always thinking you'd run from me once you figured out I was a huge dork," Jeongin chuckles, his thumb caressing Felix's hands. Felix listens intently, his stomach fluttering, "But you didn't. If anything, my dorkiness is what kept you around. You stuck by me, no matter how many times I made a mess of things, and I made a lot of messes. Every day I fell deeper in love. The way you laugh at my stupidity, your teasing remarks. The way you care for me when I'm not doing my best."

Felix's eyes begin to well up with tears. He nods, sniffling and laughing wetly.

"I want every day to be filled with your laughter, your care, your love. Lazy mornings, chaotic grocery store trips. I want to fight over our future curtain colors and annoy you with my horrible jokes until were old. I want to build a life with you that feels like I'm coming home every time I see you. So, I'm asking you..."

Jeongin drops to one knee, not breaking eye contact with Felix as he's offering the ring. It's shimmering under the lights. By now, Felix is in tears and already itching to reply.

"Will you do me the honor of becoming my husband?"

Felix sniffles, "Yes! A thousand times yes!" He's throwing himself into Jeongin's arms, grateful for the blanket under them as he's sobbing on the floor.

***

Three years later, Jeongin's parents gift them a newlywed house, one that's been crafted to their definition of perfection. They haven't had the honor of seeing the finished product, not until after their honeymoon. They'll be moving in shortly after they arrive back home.

Felix and Jeongin land on Jeju Island for their honeymoon getaway. Felix's only request was that it was near the sea and had tasty food, Jeongin did the rest.

During their first day, they enjoyed the scenery and ate so much food that Felix swears he would gain 10 pounds by the end of their honeymoon. He's never eaten so much shrimp in one sitting, "I could roll out of here," He declares, letting out a small burp and melting into his chair.

"Or I could carry you out," Jeongin suggests, already getting up and plucking Felix out of his chair even as he protests.

"Newlyweds are so bold these days," An elderly woman chuckles to her friend.

Felix buries his face in Jeongin's shoulder, the tips of his ears pink all the way back to their beachfront cottage. Jeongin trips on his way in and nearly drops Felix on the wooden floor, "Don't you dare drop me!" Felix screeches, tightening his grip on his Alpha.

"Wouldn't dream of it, baby," Jeongin says sheepishly as he sets Felix down on the bed. They gaze at each other for a few moments. Felix notices how Jeongin's cheeks are a little burnt on the curves of them, "You're so beautiful," His Alpha smiles down at him.

They haven't had much time inside since Felix was so insistent on eating something first and of course, a little bit of sightseeing. This is the first time they've been truly alone together. Felix gulps, "T-Thank you," He murmurs shyly, toying with the hem of his shirt.

"We should, um, unpack and shower?" Jeongin clears his throat, standing up straight and fixing his clothing.

It's oddly domestic. Soon they'll be unpacking in their home. One they'll share for the rest of their lives. Jeongin not jumping his bones as soon as they're alone makes him feel at ease and a bit nervous.

"Yeah. Let's do that," He smiles. Felix can tell Jeongin is nervous by how he's muttering to himself and being thorough about putting things away. They've waited years for this,

"D-Do you wanna shower now... Like together?" Jeongin stands near the bathroom with a hopeful yet dorky grin, "No pressure, of course!"

Felix almost says no. Not because he doesn't want to, rather he's still trying to wrap around his head that they're allowed to do such things together. They were before but they were waiting, "Uh, yeah. Sure," He follows Jeongin into the bathroom, watching him adjust the water to the right temperature. His heart is beating so fast.

Jeongin turns his back towards Felix, taking off the first article of clothing. He's seen Jeongin shirtless maybe once. It was when he had a horrid fever during a rut and he took it off to towel him down. Now it's different. He swallows thickly, staring at the definition in Jeongin's back.

He tears his gaze away from him, looking down at his own clothing. I should take them off, right? Felix shakily removes his top, glancing at his lean figure in the steaming mirror. The rest of his clothing comes off, abandoned on the floor. He quickly steps under the spray, wetting himself as he awaits Jeongin to join him.

"You come here often, cutie?" Jeongin flirts cheesily.

Felix can't help but laugh. His husband sure has a way of taking the edge off, "Seriously? That's your opener?" He rolls his eyes, "You're lucky you're handsome," He is grateful that Jeongin knows how to break the ice like that.

"Can I wash your hair?" Jeongin chuckles, "I've always wanted to try it. It's gotten so long," He uncaps the shampoo they brought, carefully kneading it into Felix's locks.

Felix is practically melting into his touch, "You're good at this," He slurs.

"I am a man of many talents, and I like to spoil you."

Their showering took longer than expected, mainly because it was a disaster attempting to have both of them wash their bodies at the same time. Jeongin ends up with Felix's elbow in his rib. They both end up laughing so hard that Felix ends up with the hiccups.

They both get wrapped up in the provided fluffy towels, doing their skincare side by side. This is something they weren't able to do in the dorms. Hey'd fight over the mirror but here, they're full of smiles watching each other in the reflection.

Felix crawling under the covers, sighing contently with his head propped into one hand. He eyes Jeongin, nibbling on his bottom lip. Part of him feels shame for watching so boldly. Jeongin is his husband, he is allowed to look.

While Jeongin is sipping on water, his towel begins to slip. With a small squeak, he catches it right on time, but he spills the water onto the floor. He grabs his towel just in time with a flush running up his neck, "Close call there, huh?"

Felix has pink cheeks too. He nods, swirling his finger on the patterns of the throw pillow. In silence, Jeongin cleans up the mess. He slips into bed, "Can I hold you?"

"You better," Felix smirks in attempt to lighten the mood a little. He wants nothing more than to be held by the man he trusts the most. He scoots into Jeongin's open arms, laying his head on his chest.

"This bed is so soft, but you make it feel like heaven," Jeongin nestles his nose against Felix's damp hair.

Felix groans, smacking Jeongin's chest, "That was so terrible, Jeongin!"

"I totally meant it though!" The giggles die down and his husband speaks up again, "I can't believe I get to hold you like this every night now. It's a dream come true," He says sincerely. There's no teasing bite or humor, just Jeongin being Jeongin.

He doesn't know what came over him but he's a tearful mess, snuggling closer to Jeongin, soaking in his warmth and affection. Felix peers up from Jeongin's chest to whisper, "I love you," and plant a kiss on Jeongin's lips.

Felix pulls back slightly, their noses brushing, breath trembling, "W-We said we'd wait..." He smells it, anticipation, longing. Excitement.

Jeongin nods, "We did," He smiles softly, "We still can, if you want to. There's no rush," With one hand caressing the apple of Felix's cheek, fingers in his hair, "We have a lifetime together, Felix."

Their foreheads touch--closeness. Felix angles his head, catching Jeongin's mouth once more. It's different this time. Deeper, needier. He pulls Jeongin to hover over him, wrapping his arms around his Alpha's neck. Jeongin is shaking above him, "Are you cold?" He muses between kisses.

He pulls back, swiping Felix's hair off his face, "No. I'm afraid I'm going to mess this up somehow," He states sheepishly. Jeongin's gazing down at Felix like he's the most fragile thing he's ever seen, "Are you sure you want to do this?" He asks again, vulnerability in his tone.

Felix smiles up at him, swirling the baby hairs on Jeongin's neck around his fingers, "We've waited long enough, don't you think?"

Jeongin nods, "Okay. Let me know if anything doesn't feel right. We can stop any time," He leans back down to kiss Felix again. It's tentative, both of them are shaking. Felix runs his hands through Jeongin's hair.

It's not long before they're both panting against each other's mouth, Jeongin grinding against his thigh. Felix maneuvers his knees to fall apart, his towel coming undone, "Is this okay?" He watches Jeongin's throat bob, he swallows too.

"M-More than okay," Jeongin rests above him, their fronts pressing together, "You smell amazing," He rests his nose in the crook of Felix's neck, inhaling deeply.

Felix is slicked up, the towel that was once wrapped around him is underneath him and catching what it can. He tilts his head to the side, allowing Jeongin to scent him. His teeth nibble around his bottom lip nervously. Both of them are stalling, "S-Should we keep going?"

Jeongin hums in agreeance against his neck.

The experience isn't as magical as he thought it would be. There's no sparkles or instincts guiding them, just two inexperienced people fumbling around under the covers. The obscene noises coming from between his legs while being prepped and his mouth make them both blush and hesitate, "It smells so amazing, like you want me really bad," Jeongin states reverently, attempting to remain calm.

It only makes Felix blush more, clamping his legs around Jeongin's hips as if he's try to hide the smell radiating from between his cheeks, "W-Why would you say that?!" He squeaks, pulling at Jeongin's hair.

"Ow—But it's true!" Jeongin giggles. Amongst their playfulness, his finger curls and Felix lets out the most impure moan in his lifetime, both of them simply staring at each other in shock, "Did—um—did that feel good?" He curls his finger again and Felix makes another noise, clutching onto Jeongin's arm.

When another finger is added, caressing that sensitive spot deep inside of him, he's putty in Jeongin's arms. Rubbing his cheek against his Alpha's neck, scenting him, caught between spreading his legs wider or wrapping them around his waist. He's hot, sweating. He's never been so wet, not even in heat.

He's gripping Jeongin with his hands. Watching him concentrate on his pleasure. He truly married the right man. Most Alphas would've jumped him and rammed inside as soon as there was slick, blaming pheromones. Not Jeongin. Jeongin is a compassionate lover. Truly.

Felix manages to mumble out with a deep breath, "I'm ready, I think," It comes out uncertain, only because he doesn't know how much prepping he needs but everything is bubbly and warm, body pliant and eager for something more.

Jeongin pulls his fingers out, wiping them on his towel, that's now slipped off under the covers as well. Felix can feel it pressing against his abdomen, Jeongin. He gulps, "D-Did you bring condoms?" Out of all of their conversations, not once does he remember talking about packing protection.

Jeongin nervously shakes his head, "I-It wasn't something I was thinking about when packing," He bites his bottom lip, looking away for a moment then back to Felix, "Uh, should we stop then? Should I run to the convenience store?"

Felix's belly flutters. There's a soft ache; he wants this so bad. He trusts Jeongin wholeheartedly, "I mean we could—I don't know—let what happens happen?" He runs his hands across Jeongin's toned stomach, up to his shoulders. Felix smiles at watching Jeongin shudder from his touch.

"Are you suggesting...?" He groans, asking breathlessly, "You have to be certain, Fi. I'm so close to losing my marbles right now, it's not even funny."

Felix does understand. He wants this too, so, so bad, "I'm certain. Only if you want to," He shrugs his shoulders. He knows what he's asking.

"I've been in love with you since we were kids. I've been ready for this for years, Felix. No matter what happens, I will stick by you."

"Then take me, husband."

"Got it!" Jeongin settles closer to Felix, getting comfortable between his spread thighs. He blanks down at Felix, who's blinking up at him full of nerves and uncertainty on what to expect. Jeongin clears his throat, "H-How should I take you?"

"I-I don't know," Felix stutters with heat rushing up his chest, "You're the Alpha, you should know!"

"You're the Omega! What kind of Omega doesn't know how they want to be taken?" Jeongin fires back. Felix can't even argue with that logic. He takes a deep breath, "Should I just try to put it in and go from there?"

Felix nibbles on his bottom lip, "You know where to put it, right?" He asks with pleading eyes. He's been told that the first-time hurts and he wants to ensure that there's not any more pain that what he's been prepared for.

"Yes, I know where to put it! There are not many options down there, Fi," Jeongin takes another breath bringing his nose down to rub against Felix's cheek, "Maybe we should've studied a little," He muses, planting kisses. Felix can only let out a humorous puff of air, "I'll be gentle, okay? Trust me. I got you. Even if it's not good at first, let's trust the process."

Felix nods, "Trust the process," He repeats, already gripping onto the sheets. He feels Jeongin's hand snakes between them, grabbing himself and positioning it at Felix's entrance. Closing his eyes, he jolts at the probing sensation around his leaking hole. His heart is running rampant inside his chest.

Unwillingly, his body tenses at the initial pressure of something large sliding inside him. It doesn't hurt. It does feel odd and utterly vulnerable. Jeongin is about to be in the deepest part of him. He opens his eyes, hot tears already welling up in the corners, "W-Wait," When Jeongin pauses, he notices his legs are quaking, "Stay still for a moment, please?"

"Am I hurting you? Should we stop?"

"No. I'm okay, overwhelmed a little," Felix sniffs, leaning into Jeongin's soft touches around his face. He lets out a breath that he didn't know he was holding. His grip on the sheets loosens when he gives Jeongin the okay to move again, that filling sensation pooling around a blooming heat in his gut.

Jeongin lets out shaky breaths above him. He's restraining himself; Felix knows it. It doesn't take long for their skin to touch, both of them making eye contact with a giddy smile, despite the anxiousness of their first time. They stay motionless, Jeongin mouthing a 'you okay?' at him and Felix lets go of the sheets to caress his reddened cheek, nodding.

Felix can feel everything, Jeongin's warmth, his heartbeat, the stretch and their bond growing stronger. His breath is caught in his throat. Jeongin is so beautiful and sweet. He gets a little bold and leans up to steal some kisses, his husband eagerly giving back.

"Staying still like this is harder than my accounting final," He muses against Felix's lips.

Felix pulls back enough to make eye contact, "Are you comparing me to accounting?"

Jeongin grins and presses their foreheads together, "You're way softer, if that makes you feel better."

He opens his mouth to say something clever back but ultimately decides to let Jeongin be Jeongin, "Shut up and move, slowly," He stresses, Jeongin smiles widely and nods. At the first roll of Jeongin's hips, they both let out shuddering noises. Felix grabs onto him rather than the sheets, pulling him closer.

The Alpha is in his neck, nipping carefully around where his scent is the strongest. After a few tentative thrusts, they both get more comfortable, feeling rather than worrying. It's not a perfect rhythm, but it's working for them.

Felix slips his hand down to right above the curve of Jeongin's ass and guides him to what he can handle. With him adjusting to being full, he silently encourages Jeongin to keep going. Jeongin falls in line, eager to please. Felix finds himself rocking into each motion as if it's natural.

It's quiet yet loud in the quietness. The bed creaks lowly and the bedsheets make rustling noises in the movement. Their skin shifts together, a wetness between them. Felix is moaning under his breath, face in Jeongin's neck and clinging to him tightly. His nails drag across Jeongin's back, enticing groans and stuttering hips.

Felix wraps his legs around Jeongin's waist, locking him in, "Mm," Jeongin hums, the pace quickening. Their bodies become closer, Jeongin's chest pressing against his own, "You feel so warm," He noses at Felix's ear, licking at the lobe. He kisses down Felix's jaw and throat.

"I—I think I'm gonna—" Felix gasps, his neck and abdomen tingling. He quakes, his toes curling and nails scraping Jeongin's skin. He doesn't know what to do. Every thrust, kiss and breath setting his skin ablaze, "I—Jeongin—" He pleads, unsure of what Jeongin is meant to do. He spills his release all over his abdomen, jerking with every wave of sweet, sweet pleasure.

"Shit—" Jeongin is right behind him, biting at his shoulder and freezes. He clings onto Felix, heart pounding.

He feels it. The sharp stretching sensation, a tight pressure. Felix whimpers, finding his way into the crook of Jeongin's neck, tears streaming down his face. Not only does it hurt, but it's also intense and his body is clenching around Jeongin on its own.

When the knot fully expands, Felix gasps, a twitching and pooling heat in the deepest part of him. They're locked together, "I-Is that..? A-Are you...?" Felix questions hoarsely. He already knew what was happening, he wants to hear it from Jeongin. His Alpha nods against his neck.

"Yeah. It's stuck... Is this okay? Are you okay?"

Felix winces at it expanding again but nods, "Y-Yeah. Can you hold me, please?"

"Of course, my sunshine."

His sunshine. Felix smiles through the tears. He's place on Jeongin's chest after very carefully maneuvering around to have Jeongin lie on his back against the pillows. Felix has his cheek pressed against the rhythmic beat of Jeongin's heart; it soothes him.

Jeongin inhales and shakily lets out a breath, rubbing his cheek against the top of Felix's tangled hair.

"A-Are you okay?" Felix peers up at him and notices tears streaming down his face. His heart aches, the instinct to comfort is extremely strong, "Hey, Hey. It's okay, baby. We're okay," He wipes all the tears as quick as they fall. That familiar lump balls up in his own throat too.

"I'm good, I promise," He states, both of them laughing wetly. Jeongin squeezes Felix into his arms more, nosing at his head, "I'm so happy, is all."

"Me too," Felix manages to squeeze out of his constricted throat, "Let's stay like this," He's exhausted yet glowing, his chest tight with a mixture of inexplainable emotions. He traces shapes on Jeongin's chest, loving the skin bumping under his wandering fingers.

They're both soft and gooey, basking in the afterglow of their first time. Felix hadn't noticed it earlier, the sound of the sea waves. He shuts his eyes, allowing himself to rest in the safety of Jeongin's arms.

***

After arriving home, Felix's legs were like jelly between all the sightseeing and swimming they did. Them spending time figuring each other out in bed didn't help either but, they're closer than ever. It's summer, meaning Felix is on break, Jeongin took extra time off so they could make their house into a home.

Hyunjin invited the friend group to brunch at his house the following night once Felix was more settled into the new home. Stacks of pancakes, a melody of fruit, omelets, Changbin's homemade orange juice, thank you Seungmin. Of course, Champagne.

Felix brought some cookies he baked, "No Chan?" He inquires after their rounds of hugs and coos about missing each other.

Hyunjin waves his hand dismissively, "Kicked him out for a few hours. Omegas only. We have important things to talk about!"

"Yeah, we do!" Jisung pours four glasses of mimosas, bringing them to the round dining table and setting them in front of everyone.

Seungmin silently sets a coffee and water in front of Felix.

Felix is grateful for the discreetness. He's not exactly pregnant, too early to tell. Regardless, he's been abstaining from alcohol, a personal preference. He could tell the others are waiting for him to speak about the honeymoon, leaning forward, expectant eyes in his direction.

"Wasn't his wedding so intimate?" Seungmin clears his throat. He's a little protective of Felix, they met at the interview for their current job. Their classrooms are across from each other. Seungmin fits right in.

"Oh, yes! You were so beautiful in white!" Jisung says all starry-eyed, cheeks full of fruit.

Hyunjin grunts in agreeance, "I need to know who arranged your flowers. I want them for mine and Chan's wedding next year."

"I still can't believe you're getting married in the winter. What can you do together that's fun?" Jisung states, "Felix got married at the right time. They can go to the beach, not too hot or too cold."

Hyunjin rolls his eyes, "Imagine the snow in our hair in our pictures, how white our skin could look, pink cheeks and noses. I already have this idea about taking engagement photos in a frozen river. Maybe wearing something that stands out, like red!"

Jisung gasps, "Are you insane? What if you get hypothermia!?"

Seungmin and Felix exchange glances, amused by their friends opposing tastes. He swears that they've had this conversation before. Hyunjin and Chan are the moon while Jisung and Minho are the sun, at least to Felix. Seungmin chimes in, "I think autumn is the prime time to get married. The colors alone are beautiful."

"Any time is a good time to get married," Felix chimes in, "Love is just so... romantic..."

They all collectively agree. Taking a few beats to sip on their beverage and nibble on their food.

"You know what, I'm going to be the first to ask directly," Jisung announces, "Tell us about your honeymoon! Pretty please?"

Felix knows they'll want details, "It was good," he'll tease a little. There's a shared groan between the other three, grumbles about his lack of details.

"Spill," Hyunjin demands, placing more fruit on Felix's plate. He's bribing him with watermelon. The pieces that just fall apart in his mouth.

Felix chews it thoroughly, knowing they're all waiting, "He was a perfect gentleman. It didn't click right away that Jeongin's my husband but once it did, it was kind of magical, in an awkward and inexperienced way."

"See, this is why I told you to do it just once before getting married!" Jisung nudges him. They all respected his decision to wait, though they gave him grief about it.

Seungmin slips his hand to have their pinkies touch, "Was it good?"

Felix's ears grow pink, a smile plastering across his face as he's reminded of how gentle Jeongin was. The scent of a nervous yet aroused Alpha, his Alpha. The warmth of his skin. The sensation of being filled. Felix covers his mouth, his cheeks hurting from how wide he is. He nods, giggling at his friends hyping him up over it.

Jisung is slapping his arm playfully.

Hyunjin is across the table begging for details, "Did you break the bed? Tell us everything!"

"Let him speak, damn," Seungmin pushes Hyunjin. They're all back to staring at Felix.

"Well..." Felix coughs to clear his throat, "We showered together after grabbing an early dinner. Things kind of shifted when his towel slipped off a little. I-I didn't see anything but, maybe he could tell how I felt?"

"You smell like a snack talking about it," Hyunjin pokes at his foot under the table, "Bet he was lookin' at you like he was going to gobble you up."

"I didn't think so," Felix smiles, "He came to bed to cuddle, and we kissed a little, and you know, did the rest," He says bashfully, "Jeongin was... clueless, I mean so was I."

Jisung nods, "Minho was pretty clueless his first time too."

"Yeah, me too," Seungmin rubs Felix's arms in the comforting manner, "Was it at least good by the end?"

"Oh, yes! He was very gentle through the whole process, maybe even a little scared. He was shaking like a leaf the entire time. It was sweet," He tucks some strands of hair behind his ear. His mouth moves faster than his brain, letting something slip, "Even when knotting."

The other three gasp dramatically.

"You mean...?"

"Just nothing...?"

Jisung lets out the most out-of-pocket question ever so quietly, "You did it raw?"

Felix shyly bobs his head, "Every time. We didn't plan very well for the entire experience."

"Holy shit. You could be pregnant right now! Are you crazy?" Jisung screeches, taking away his untouched mimosa.

"I didn't drink it, no worries."

"You're practically beaming with happiness," Hyunjin sighs dreamily, "I'm happy for you."

"We're proud of you, Lix," Seungmin taps his shoulder with love, "Make sure to rest and take care of your health. New house, a marriage and a possibly pregnancy? Your hands will be full."

"I've been resting a lot, don't worry!"

They spend a few hours together, catching up, Jisung talking about work drama or Hyunjin complaining about Chan's neatness. It's nice having a neat fiancé, until living with them and they're not the same type of neat. From what Felix gathers, Hyunjin doesn't do much around the house because Chan will do it again right behind him.

Seungmin is open about his relationship with Changbin. Especially bedroom talk, not that it's a closed off topic with the group anyway. Felix's jaw drops anytime he hears it since Seungmin is so casual with it. Seungmin likes getting tossed around and it's an odd thing to hear since he's a leader at work.

By the time Felix is driving home, he's thoroughly scandalized and ready to curl up against his husband.

Jeongin is already home, lying on the sofa watching some show he doesn't know about, "Hey, how was it?" He opens his arms for Felix to snuggle right in, "You smell so sweet. You must've had a good time."

"Yeah," He sighs contently, burrowing into Jeongin's neck and inhaling, "I ate so much fruit today. I'm stuffed," Felix stills on top of Jeongin, purring gently at his fingers carding through his hair.

"You've been purring on me for years and I'll never get tired of it," Jeongin kisses Felix's hair, "Music to my ears."

Chapter Text

Felix awakens in the middle of the night in a cold sweat with a gasp, jerking upwards. He's at home, Jeongin dead asleep next to him, head tucked under a pillow. He wipes the sweat from his face, hearing his heart race from where it resides. There's a ringing in his ears.

He's at home, surrounded by familiarity. His husband, their scents mingled together, the sheets the same softness yet none of them offer the same comfort. He's anxious, tugging up the blanket to his chin to alleviate the curling sensation in his gut.

Felix scans the room, nothing but crickets fill the silence. He takes his lip between his teeth when his eyes land on his husband. Jeongin has been working so hard, he doesn't want to wake him for a bout off anxiety. He takes a deep breath, slipping out of bed to the kitchen to grab a glass of water.

That nagging swirl in his gut isn't cured by a cool glass of water. Felix leans over the kitchen sink to splash cool water on his face, the hairs around the frame sticking to him. He grips the counter, taking a few more breaths. What's wrong with me? He's questioning himself and his body. It's like he's in fight or flight mode.

He passes by the sofa on the way back into the bedroom, stopping at the faintest touch of a blanket across his arm. Felix grips the throw blanket reluctantly, pulling it off the back of the sofa and caressing his face on it. It smells of Jeongin and him, a hint of sugar too.

This.

The tense feeling in his shoulders loosen a fraction after he wraps the blanket around his shoulders. It calms him more than the cold water did. 

Without thinking, Felix scours the house, yearning for that again. The guest bedroom's blankets offer the same feeling. He yanks the blankets off the bed, stealing the fuzzy throw pillow from the center of the bed and dragging it across the house into the bedroom.

He pauses glancing where Jeongin lays, then to the closet. The bed is too large—too open—for the security he's aching for. It's lacking in protection. Anyone could come by and perceive him, touch him. He craves a structure, something where he's hidden—safe. Felix shoves his findings past the sliding door, packing them against the floor.

Clothing—Jeongin's clothing—hits his head when he stands back up. He tears some articles down, adding them to the addition of items on the floor. Felix's kneels in the center of it all, arranging the clothing and pillow perfectly. It's like an itch he's had has finally be scratched.

Once everything is established, Felix removes his pajamas, longing to feel one with his bubble of security. A subtle purr erupts from his chest. His body quivers, relishing the softness against his exposed skin. He packs himself amongst the blankets, it's a tight fit between the walls and plushness. It's pure perfection. A smile plays across his lips, rubbing his scent on the areas near his face.

He yawns, curling up in the center with the throw blanket tucked under his chin. Safety. Felix can relax now that his urges have been satisfied. He allows his eyes to flutter shut. With warmth surrounding him and the anxiousness gone, he falls back asleep.

A drift towards consciousness rather than being startled up. Felix awakens in a soothing daze surrounded by plushiness and warmth. The softness on his skin causes him to purr, rubbing his face on the fuzzy pillow tucked under his head.

He can't fully understand it. Being inside this sanctuary is a strange rightness, as if he's built something important.

Felix slowly sits up, rubbing the sleep form his eyes. The light from the doorway stings. He catches the blanket as it falls from his bare chest, throwing it around himself to keep himself from getting cold when he leaves.

Right outside, Jeongin is sitting and leaning against the wall. His head is slightly tilted, observing his disheveled mate, "Good morning," He says in a hushed voice with a smile. Jeongin looks so soft, angelic almost. His pupils are huge.

"M-Morning," Felix feels slightly self-conscious.

The tips of Jeongin's fingers ghost over the edge of the blankets, not quite touching it. He meets Felix's gaze, "You built this while I slept?"

Felix nods bashfully and grips the blankets at watching his husband get close to the nest. He's not ready for anyone else to disturb it. It's his space. Felix doesn't want someone to taint it, not even Jeongin. 

"It's beautiful... You're beautiful," Sensing Felix's stiff behavior, Jeongin pulls his hand away, "Did something make you want to nest last night?"

Nest. That's what he's doing. Nesting.

"I woke up feeling a little anxious. I tried water and it didn't help. When I came back towards the room, the softness of the throw blanket touched me and... I guess I got a little nesty?" Felix explains, "I felt better once I was inside."

"That explains why there's a fort in the closet, huh," They both giggle, Felix scooting a little more towards the edge to work himself up to clamber out. Jeongin's gaze melts even more, "You can come out when you're ready, sunshine."

Felix is grateful for Jeongin's understanding. So grateful that tears well up in the corners of his eyes, falling freely against the fabric. His face is hot with embarrassment.

"Hey, hey. Why the tears?" Jeongin maneuvers closer to the nest, hesitating to reach into the nest to comfort.

Felix sniffles, "I-I do not know," He's confused himself. One moment he's feeling happy and content and another he's wiping the tears from his stinging eyes. He crawls out of the nest and into Jeongin's open arms. Shaky sobs fill the silence, Jeongin's warmth. Felix nestles into his shoulder, appreciative for his husband.

His loving hands through his tangled hair. The way Jeongin doesn't pressure him but reassures him with silence, by holding him close, planting sweet kisses along his forehead. Jeongin allows Felix to just be—to feel—without embarrassment or scrutiny.

"How about some water and something to eat once you're calmed down?"

Felix mumbles a watery 'yes', completely pliant in Jeongin's arms as he's carried around the kitchen. Jeongin is strong enough to hold him up with one arm. He's set on the kitchen island, sipping using both hands since they're weak from his emotional outburst.

Jeongin is right there as a silent supporter, fixing up his hair, drying his eyes and rubbing his sides to soothe, "Wanna watch some anime after breakfast? Something lighthearted and cute?"

He agrees, perched on the counter watching Jeongin moving about the kitchen cooking a simple breakfast. Eggs, toast and some fruit. Felix loves fruit. Watching his Alpha care for him brings forth more tears, wiping them onto the blanket that covers his nude body. 

Jeongin notices when he hands the plate over, "D-Did I do something wrong?" He's hesitant to touch Felix, unsure if he'd be making it better or worse.

Felix shakes his head, "N-No. I'm a little... not myself today, I guess," He nibbles on the banana slices, letting Jeongin wipe his nose with a tissue, "Thank you for being... you," Felix arches his neck up to kiss his husband's cheek.

"Who else would I be?" Jeongin's face heats up. He doesn't move away from Felix for a moment, eating between wiping his face and pressing his lips against Felix's skin, "Not a fan of the eggs today?"

The eggs made him feel sickly. Felix rubs his stomach, turning his nose up at the eggs, "Not really. Maybe all the emotions of today have my body out of its natural rhythm. I'll eat something more sustainable later."

Jeongin seems worried, "Alright. How about we cuddle on the sofa and watch anime now?" At Felix's agreement, he carried Felix to the sofa and lays down with Felix on top of him, the blanket covering them both.

Felix presses his cheek against his chest, watching Jeongin pick a romance anime they've seen hundreds of times. Lying like this is always his favorite. His Alpha is always so warm and smells sweet. He shivers at Jeongin's hand tracing along his bare spine, dipping down to his lower back to circle upwards. He clings onto Jeongin's shirt, purring subtly. Their legs and feet get tangled up

"Love hearing you purr," Jeongin kisses his head, inhaling deeply in Felix's messy hair, "Did you get a new shampoo? You smell utterly divine."

"No. What do I smell like?" Felix blinks up at him.

"Hmm..." He hums, taking a deep inhale, "Maybe like honey?"

"Honey..." Felix repeats under his breath, glancing back at the television. He yawns, snuggling against the heat that radiates from Jeongin.

"Tired?"

"Mhn," Felix yawns again, shutting his eyes.

Jeongin plays with his hair, the purrs getting louder, "You should sleep then."

Felix awakens abruptly with a fire-like sensation in his stomach. He's famished. He feels like he'll die without something to eat this very moment. It burns.

"You okay, Fi?" Jeongin wipes the drool from Felix's mouth.

"Starving..." He murmurs hoarsely. Felix's mouth salivates, stomach causing him pain at the thought, "Want mashed potatoes and strawberry jelly. Right now."

Jeongin sits up carefully, "Like... together—mixed together?"

Felix stares him right in the eyes, nodding strongly, "Yes. I need it. Extra, extra butter!"

"O-Okay. Got it," Jeongin stretches languidly before maneuvering off the sofa. He turns to face Felix, "Are you su—"

He must look and sound insane. No, he knows he sounds insane. Waking up out of a deep sleep and demanding to be fed. Still, he nearly screams out of frustration, "Yes!" Felix barks at him, watching Jeongin scramble into the kitchen as if Felix lunged at him.

Jeongin sprints around the kitchen like this is a life-or-death situation, muttering under his breath about where the damn potato peeler is, "Y-You know, you've been acting strange today..." He announces across the open space, "This isn't exactly a normal combination. It's honestly a little weird."

Felix tilts his head to capture Jeongin's eyes, clutching onto his blanket defensively, "It's not weird. This is important! I need it."

"Right... Important..." He gulps, clambering around their cabinet for the right pot to boil water, "M-Maybe you should get dressed while you wait? It'll take some time," He suggests sheepishly.

Felix flops onto the sofa, clutching his stomach, overly dramatic, "I can't wait too long! I'll waste away!" He whines, flailing around. The urge to get Jeongin to move as fast as he can outweighs reason.

"Are you perhaps hungry for some attention while you wait?" He smiles fondly, teasing his Omega a little.

"Do you even love me? Why would you make me wait?" Felix says tearfully.

Jeongin rushes to the sofa in a panic, "No, no. Of course I love you!" He sighs, running his hands through his hair, "I honestly don't know what to do, okay? You're crying all day because of me and could hardly keep breakfast down. It feels like no matter what I do, you're upset with me."

It comes out between choked sobs and hiccups, "I'm sorry," He cries harder out of guilt from seeing his Alpha distressed. Felix loathes making Jeongin upset, "I-I don't know w-what's wrong with me."

Jeongin settles by Felix's feet, "Come here. I'll hold you while we wait for the water to boil," As soon as Felix is in his arms, he rocks them slowly, doing what he can to comfort him, "Should I be taking time off for your heat? You're kinda acting like it's coming."

Now that he thinks about it... Felix checks the app on Jeongin's phone, wiping his tears up. His stomach drops at the bright red screen, twelve days over due. He gulps," About that..." A nervous laugh bubbles up.

"What? Am I right?" He smiles. Felix gives him the 'oh, my sweet summer child' glance.

"Not particularly," Felix says through clenched teeth before spitting it out, "I'm late. By like, a lot."

Jeongin glances over behind him at the clock in confusion, then back over once it clicks. His eyes dart around, a redness rising up his neck, "Are you saying—wait—you're saying... like, a baby? Our baby? With me? Type of late-late?"

"Yes, with you! Who else would it be with?" Felix crosses his arms with a pout.

"...With me..." His Alpha is in awe, dopey grin and dimples on full display. He rests his forehead against Felix's, pulling the Omega closer, "I like how that sounds."

Felix melts into his embrace, pressing his nose against Jeongin's cheek. Jeongin's sweetness towards him will always make him soften. He whispers softy, "Me too."

"Wanna go grab a test together after you eat your potato potion?"

Felix rolls his eyes with playfulness, "Potato potion? Seriously?"

"Yeah!" Jeongin kisses his lips, "But after? A test?" His eyes soften in an inexplainable way. Felix is melting in his seat, sighing dreamily at how composed and wholly what a mess his husband can be. How did he ever get so lucky?

Felix agrees. He watches Jeongin make what he wants with ease. He loves homemade mashed potatoes, even before they suspected a pregnancy. Though the jelly and butter, sweet and salty is a perfect mixture.

Afterwards, they're hand in hand, swinging and walking to the nearest convenience store. They get distracted by all the snacks before sneaking a test into their basket like a couple of embarrassed teenagers. Felix fiddles with the oversized hoodie of Jeongin's he's wearing, ignoring how the cashier gave them a glance of hope. People love babies around here.

On their walk home, Felix hums quietly, smiling in the sun. It doesn't take long for him to notice Jeongin staring at him, "What? Is there jelly on my face?" He wipes around his mouth.

"No. You're just so beautiful," Jeongin gushes with adoration, "Truly my greatest accomplishment. And you know, them. If there is a 'them'," His eyes flick down and back up.

Covering his abdomen, Felix's cheeks flush and he's walking faster, suddenly having the urge to take that test as soon as possible. A them. The butterflies in his stomach are very present. Felix shaking with giddiness as they enter their house.

He's digging through the bags, Jeongin couldn't even set them down, fishing out the test and scurrying off into the bathroom. Not before looking back at his husband and blowing a kiss.

Inside the bathroom, he reads and follows the instructions, heart hammering against his chest. He washes his hands and exits the bathroom, "Three minutes..." Felix rubs his hands on his neck out of unease. Not knowing doesn't feel secure.

Jeongin is quick to be by his side, pulling Felix in into his lap on their armchair, "Whatever the results, I'm here. Every step of the way, my Sunshine."

Felix presses a kiss to his lips. A nervous exhale leaving him once they part, "How are you so calm about all of this? Aren't you scared? What if it's negative? What if it's positive?"

"Worst that'll happen is it's negative," He pulls Felix closer, pushing his head down onto his shoulder. He caresses his blonde hair, "We can always try again. Many more times."

That familiar lump forms in his throat, Felix holding himself together enough to ask a simple question, "The worst is a negative...?" Meaning Jeongin wants it to be positive.

"Of course," Jeongin wipes his tears, "I would be overjoyed that our family is growing. Besides, we already had this conversation weeks ago, didn't we?"

Felix nods. How could he forget their honeymoon? "We did."

"Do you think it's been three minutes yet?"

Felix nibbles on his bottom lip and shrugs. He stops when Jeongin kisses him tenderly, "Let's go see," His husband helps him up, large hands around his waist. Felix adores being guided, even if that guidance can be messy at times. This is one of those moments where Jeongin's serenity shines through his typical chaotic nature. Felix is forever grateful.

They loom over the bathroom vanity, test turned upside down because Felix could hardly stand to look at it. Jeongin and him share a glance, Jeongin flipping it over to see a prominent pink plus sign. Felix gasps, clutching onto Jeongin's arm, "It doesn't say anything..." Jeongin glances at the test closer.

"It's positive you dummy. Plus sign equals positive!"

Jeongin snaps his head to Felix, blinking a few times, "Really?" At Felix's confirmation, Jeongin swoops him off his feet twirling him around, both of them giggling. Felix is crying, again, but it's happy tears, "I love you, Felix."

Felix clings onto him, planting aggressive kisses all over Jeongin's face, "I love you," He's squeezing his arms around Jeongin's neck, as he's set down to sit on the vanity, "Thank you for putting up with my antics today. I know I was..."

"Pregnant?"

"I was going to say dramatic, but your answer is better," He noses his way into the crook of Jeongin's neck. His husband, his mate, father of their baby. He's truly blessed and overwhelmingly filled with joy.

They simply hold each other, Jeongin trembles in his embrace, hanging on as if Felix would disappear. Felix leans against him, shutting his eyes. He feels Jeongin's hands card through his hair. He feels Jeongin's anxiousness and doesn't point it out. He's terrified too.

Jeongin clears his throat, "My god... We're really doing this... We're having a/-wait, should I be baby-proofing the bathroom right now?"

Felix laughs through the tears, swatting at Jeongin, "Tomorrow. Let's enjoy today without thinking too much."

"Got it!"

"It's not unheard of, especially in younger couples," Doctor Park has a wand with jelly pressing into Felix's abdomen, "If Alpha and Omega are fertile, getting pregnant on the first try is likely... There's your baby," She points to the odd shape on the screen, "I'd say you're around 8 weeks based on fetal development. They're roughly the size of a raspberry."

"They're so... tiny," Felix is in awe. He resists touching his belly as the doctor works. Jeongin is over his shoulder silently, their fingers intertwined in a lose grip.

"They kind of look like an alien."

"Jeongin!" Felix squeezes the heck out of his hand. His Alpha shakes it, mouth wide open in a silent scream to get Felix to let go.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry!" He sighs, rubbing his hand when Felix lets him go, "They're our alien," Jeongin teases, making Felix smack his side, "OW!"

Felix is speechless in the passenger's seat on the way home, staring at the little black and white pictures in his hand. His heart is overflowing with love and a sprinkle of anxiety. He's really pregnant and they did it so easily. He thought it would take time but a few months after their honeymoon, he's carrying their child.

In the blink of an eye, they're home. Their newlywed house that's mostly unpacked and organized. It's empty, going from their childhood bedrooms to an entire house. Their parents provided a lot of their furniture. It's a gorgeous home, one Felix plans to decorate into their home.

He sits on the sofa, Jeongin fluffing all the pillows around him and covering him up with a blanket, "Do you need anything? Water? A snack? More blankets?"

"I'm fine, babe," Felix admire Jeongin's attentiveness, "Maybe just some cuddles?" He lies back into the many pillows he's collected, patting his chest for Jeongin to come closer.

Jeongin bites his bottom lip, "What if I crush them?"

"You're not going to crush them. You're gentle and soft and I'm sure they'd love having you near," He pats his flat belly, raising his eyebrows to hurry Jeongin up, "Come here, my silly Alpha," He smiles warmly as Jeongin's cheek rests against his stomach. He maneuvers the blanket to wrap around Jeongin's shoulders.

"See? No crushing," Felix assures Jeongin, carding his hands through his shiny, black hair. Jeongin is pressing his cheek against him more, as if he's trying to hear something.

His Alpha laughs a little, just a puff of breath, it quickly turns into a silent sob, "I-I don't know why I'm crying. I'm so happy," Jeongin swallows, "And overwhelmed."

"You're overflowing with love, is all," Felix says thoughtfully. Jeongin's heart is truly the purest thing Felix has ever known. He's pulls him a little tighter against his stomach, not wanting to leave from their little bubble.

Jeongin wipes his tears on the blanket, letting out a wet laugh, "I didn't know I could love something instantly. It's so magical," He says wistfully, "As soon as I saw them, it was like I was taken over by some instinct. I-It just hit me," His Alpha nestles his cheek down more. His lashes caress the small swell through Felix's thin shirt.

"Me too," Felix murmurs, his voice cracking. He's overflowing with love too, "The second I saw them, something in me clicked. Like my soul recognized them."

Jeongin uses the blanket to wipe Felix's tears, both of them giggling together at how overly emotional they are. It's absurd in the best way possible.

Both of them fall silent, simply overwhelmed, watery eyes but full of warmth. Felix cracks a half smile, gazing at the love of his life looking like a loving mess. He's probably looking like a mess too, "You're going to be such a good dad, Jeongin. They're so lucky to have you."

Jeongin shakes his head, hiding his face in Felix's abdomen, already crying again, "No... I'm the lucky one, Fi."

He doesn't fight Jeongin on that. Felix allows his husband to be—to feel—what he needs to. In silence, he continues to caress Jeongin's hair. Felix's mind wanders to what their baby might look like. Will they have Jeongin's unique eyes or perhaps his own bright smile? Either way, he's in awe he gets to be on this journey with his best friend.

"I love you," Jeongin kisses Felix's stomach, nestling his cheek back onto it.

"I love you too."

Seungmin and Felix start to decorate their classrooms for the upcoming school year. This will be their fourth year of decorating together and have made it a tradition. Felix is doing a garden themed class this year. Seungmin has chosen weather-related decorations.

Felix is standing on the floor, handing up these cotton puffs Seungmin had Hyunjin make for him, "There are too adorable!" He feels one of them up. They look exactly like mini clouds, "This reminds me of the one time a student asked me if clouds were made of mashed potatoes."

Seungmin is tacking them up to the ceiling, moving his small stepladder around. He lets out a humorous puff of air, "I once had a student ask me if dinosaurs were good at hide and seek because they're never seen one before."

"Oh no," Felix coos, "Did you break their little heart and told them they are extinct?"

"I did. Then I had to call dad to come pick them up because they cried so hard, they threw up," Seungmin grimaces, "Not my best teaching moment. Lesson learned."

"They have to learn one way or another. Just don't get any bright ideas about saying things like Santa Claus isn't real," Felix jests, handing up another cloud.

"Wouldn't dream of it," He chuckles, "Did you still want help with your cubby tags? What fruit did you decide on?"

"Strawberries!" Felix beams, "I wanted to do a whole strawberry themed classroom, but first graders need vibrant colors."

Seungmin tucks the ladder away for now, both of them sit down at one of the rounds tables. He's helping Felix with cutting the lamination from around the strawberry tags, "Probably the best decision. Plus, you have more cute ideas with an entire garden."

"I was thinking about getting some brown paper and cutting some sort of tree shape. Then I'd use green paper streamers to make it look like a tree in one of the corners."

"That could be cool. It would look like a weeping willow tree. A paper one," Seungmin shrugs, cutting around the greens of the strawberry.

"I thought so too!" Felix always gets really excited this time of year when decorating. This year feels particularly strong. The organization of things scratches his nesting instincts. He's being going in circles around the house, so much as to take a brush against the tiles of their shower. It's a brand-new house, everything was spotless, even more so.  

Felix bites his lips, pondering on weather to tell Seungmin about the baby or not. Jeongin and him have kept it to themselves. He's almost out of the first trimester. Soon enough he'll be showing.

He sets down the scissors and stretches, "Okay!" Felix hops up, giggling and posing, "Before the school year starts, do you notice anything different about me? I think the kids might!"

Seungmin squints, gazing and grinning at Felix's adorable antics, "Did you get a new skincare routine? You're practically glowing."

"Try again!" Felix wink does a flower pose and winks.

"New shampoo?"

"No," At this point, he's teasing, knowing Seungmin wouldn't guess it. He sits back down in the chair close to his friend, "Actually," Felix takes on a softer tone. Little nerves are bubbling up to the surface, "Jeongin and I are expecting. I'm pregnant."

Seungmin, straight-faced, asks, "So I'm assuming I'm going to be the one getting on the ladder for the party streamer idea?" He pauses, a smile playing on his lips, "On a real note, congratulations. You look happier than ever."

"Thank you and yes! Jeongin will have both of our heads if he hears or sees. He's picking me up later," Felix nudges him. His stomach flutters, assuming it's butterflies but that sneaking part of him believes it's their child squirming around, "I trust you can keep this between us for now, yeah? I want to tell Hyunjin and Jisung on my own."

"Of course," Seungmin takes his hand, giving it a loving pat, "Congratulations, again. I see the way Jeongin and you look at each other. You both will be great parents."

Felix sniffs. He tilts his head up to resist crying, "Stop, I'm going to bawl my eyes out."

"We can't have that," Seungmin offers him a tissue, "You're going to need thicker skin, Lix. These kids are menaces. They'll make you cry someday if talking about the baby is enough to bring you to tears. Now, let's finish up before your Alpha shows up and starts hovering."

He wipes the corner of his eyes and blows his nose. Felix would rather not think about crying due to one of his students being a menace. That's not something he can even prepare for. Children are out-of-pocket these days, "How do you know he's hovering?"

"Don't they all?"

Felix can't even argue with that. His husband is right around the corner, sometimes right behind him, holding him from behind. He can hardly go to the bathroom alone. In the night, Jeongin will sleepily be leaning against the doorway.

Felix and Seungmin finish putting up each other's cubby tags. Seungmin went with suns for his, they're utterly adorable. Felix gets the ladder out, being scolded at lifting something 'heavy'. He didn't even lift it, he dragged it.

They get the party streamers up; Felix will cut the paper a following day. He's already feeling fatigued from doing a bunch of other tasks and getting his class schedule ready. Seungmin sets a cookie down by him, "Am I going end up having treats on my desk year up until I go on leave?"

"Get used to it."

They both turn towards the door when Jeongin enters into the classroom, "Hi, sunshine," He's striding towards Felix, who's jumping out of his chair to jump into his arms, "Did you both get a lot done?"

His heart leaps at his adorable pet name. Felix nods, inhaling the soothing scent of his mate, "We got a lot done. I missed you."

"Missed you too," Jeongin kisses his cheek, allowing Felix to slip out of his arms, "Almost finished? Your mom dropped off some food. She's happy cooking these days. Making sure you're well fed," They have a sneaking suspicion that his mother already knows. He's not so subtle about the caressing Felix's abdomen. Felix doesn't stop him.

Seungmin clears his throat, "You two are sickeningly cute."

"Oh, like Changbin isn't all over you when you two are together," Felix rolls his eyes, "He's coming to pick you up, right?"

"I am!" Changbin enters the room. With a burst of energy, he's sweeping his boyfriend off his feet, spinning the unsuspecting Omega around in circles. Seungmin is fighting in his arms but eventually gives up. When he's put down, Seungmin's cheeks are bright pink.

"Can't you greet me like a normal person?" He grits through his teeth.

Jeongin and Felix exchange glances, keeping their thoughts to themselves. Felix will definitely tease Seungmin about it later. His husband speaks up first, "We should all have dinner sometime soon. You've yet to be at our new house."

"We could have a whole get together out of it!" Felix suggests, "Invite Jisung, Hyunjin and their Alphas too?"

"Whatever you want," Jeongin nods, "Shall we go?"

"Yes," Felix gives Seungmin a hug, "See you soon, okay?"

"Take care of yourself, hm?" He darts his eyes down then back up, "And text me everything."

Changbin is too distracted with saying his goodbyes with Jeongin to notice their own. Felix will tell them all soon enough.

Jeongin takes his hand to lead him to the car, "You didn't do any climbing, did you?" He opens the door for Felix, smiling at Felix's head shake. Jeongin leans down to plant a kiss on his lips, "Good. Thank you for doing what's best for our little alien."

Just when Felix was about to refute that their child is not an alien, Jeongin shuts the door in his face. He saves it for when his husband is in the car, "Call them anything else. They're our baby, not some extraterrestrial monster."

The engine stares, today's pop playing softly on the radio, "They're our baby, yes," He agrees, "But I think giving them a little nickname would be so cute. Imagine a baby shower with a space theme. We could have Hyunjin paint a UFO on your belly!"

Felix gasps, almost offended, "I will not be caught dead with a UFO painted on my belly!" He gives Jeongin the cheek, arms crossed, "Don't get any ideas. I will be so mad, it won't even be funny."

Jeongin, on the other hand, is rather amused by this, "Alright, I hear you loud and clear. No UFO belly paintings... but the rest you're down for?"

"Absolutely not!"

Felix stares out the window, watching the array of colors pass by. It's hot today, the sun beaming down on him and warming his skin. His stomach growls. His hand coming down to pat it. By this time next year, he'll have a baby to come home to after decorating and after each day. It's fulfilling and a little daunting. By the school year starts, he hopes to be showing, even a small bump would fill him with joy.

He observes Jeongin moving the air vents onto him. His husband is always so in tune to what he needs--what they need. Felix wishes he could tell him that he's doing so already.

At home, Felix takes off his shoes and stretches upon entering, "I cannot wait to eat!" Hands wrap around his middle, guiding him towards the kitchen and planting sweet kisses on his shoulder. They giggle through their awkward waddles.

"You're in for quite a feast. Bulgogi, dumplings, kimchi, spicy tofu stew. She really went all out. I suspect she's suspecting," Jeongin gets everything ready without letting Felix leave his proximity, "We should tell our families soon. We have known for almost a month. I would love to gush about my beautiful Omega and Jeongin Junior."

"Do not get any ideas about 'Jeongin Junior' either. That is far worse than calling them an alien and they might be a girl," Felix bumps back against him, stealing the plate and ducking out from under his arm. He sticks his tongue out and scurries into the living room, Jeongin not far behind him.

"For the record, I'd love a baby girl just as much as I'd love a baby boy."

Felix leans his head on Jeongin's arm, chewing on his dumpling, "She'd have you wrapped around her tiny fingers... well, a boy would too."

Jeongin makes a noise of agreement, "No matter what, I'll be at their mercy. Boy or girl, Alpha or Omega," He sets his chopsticks down, ensuring he's looking directly into Felix's eyes, "They will be my little baby."

"No matter what, I will be buying bows and makeup to dress you up again," Felix wipes the corner of Jeongin's mouth. Both of them laugh at the idea, "It'll be like high school all over again."

Jeongin pretends to nip at Felix's hand, "Ah, yes. The nail painting and such. I miss those days at times," He takes another bite of his food, eyes never leaving Felix's face, "I was always so pretty," He says with reminiscence.

Felix steals a kiss, "And the dorkiest. It did pose a certain charm, though."

"Ended up with a ring on your finger," He steals a kiss back, "And ya know, this little one," Jeongin pats Felix's stomach.

Felix can't argue with that.

Chapter Text

As soon as Felix began to show, Jeongin and Felix decide to tell their parents together over dinner. Their suspicions about Felix's mother were right. She was well aware of the pregnancy, keeping it to herself until they were ready to announce. It brought forth a lot of tears, talks of showers and grandparents spoiling their first grandchild. Between their parents and friends, this baby will be spoiled.

Neither of them sleeps through the night anymore. Felix's bladder not allowing either of them to. Jeongin is up as soon as Felix takes a single deep breath, checking on Felix and their baby or following him to the bathroom.

"You know I am fully capable of going by myself, right?" Felix grumbles. He finds it annoyingly sweet.

Jeongin yawns, wiping the sleep from his eyes, "What if there's a spider or something? Need to protect you both."

He doesn't argue with that, yearning to be back in bed. Felix finishes up, rolling up the sleeves to Jeongin's sweater he borrowed. His own clothes don't fit right anymore. Felix takes his hand, Jeongin helping him back into bed and under the covers.

His husband nestles in behind him, hand over the subtle swell. Felix shivers at Jeongin's lips pressed against his neck, "Goodnight, my sunshine," He murmurs.

"Night."

Falling asleep comes easily when he's growing a whole baby.

Felix awakens with a sparkling sensation in his gut--arousal. It's been some time since they've had sex. It mainly hasn't been on their mind since finding out about the baby. Now that he's past the stage that made him exhausted, he's hungry.

He reaches out gently, brushing Jeongin's hair from his eyes. There are dark circles under them. This may be the first time in a few weeks that Jeongin is out cold. Felix nibbles on his own bottom lips, letting out a shaky breath as his fingers wander. He wordlessly runs his fingers down Jeongin's chest and stomach under the blanket. The warmth of his skin sends goosebumps up Felix's arm.

Jeongin looks so soft while asleep. Messed up hair, arm over Felix's middle, a light tint to his cheeks. He's breathtakingly handsome. Felix feels incredibly lucky.

It doesn't take Jeongin long to stir awake, pulling Felix closer with a rumbling 'morning' falling from his lips.

Felix kisses Jeongin's lips. He smiles into the kiss at his Alpha's eagerness. Jeongin falls into line, licking the inside of Felix's mouth and pulling him closer so they may lie face to face on their sides, "You smell divine, sunshine. Like honey," He trails his lips across Felix's jaw, the Omega exposing his neck eagerly.

There's slick pooling out into his pants, more than usual, "That's your baby messing with my scent," Felix noses at Jeongin's hair. His scent is stronger in the mornings, even more so as they're brimming with excitement, "Are you feeling up to making love this morning?" Felix asks tentatively.

He pauses on his exploration, pulling back to marvel at his mate, "Are you sure you're feeling alright, my love?" He questions low and with caution. Jeongin caresses the roundness of their child nestled safely inside Felix, "I would never forgive myself if I hurt either of you."

"I feel wonderful," Felix assures. He pecks at Jeongin's temple, cheekily adding on, "And a little wet."

"Are you now?" Jeongin grins, slipping his hand into Felix's oversized pajama pants. Felix is inviting him in, spreading his legs apart willingly, "You'll let me know if we need to stop, yeah?" He treks the tips through the small pool of slick, Felix breathlessly nodding against him.

"Yes. Yes," He murmurs breathily, urging Jeongin to pad at his hole. Two fingers, Felix's eyes are rolling into the back of his head. He prompts Jeongin back up to capture their lips together once more. Felix's hands wander around Jeongin's exposed back, feeling the heat of his skin after far too long.

His Alpha groans into his mouth, pulling Felix to lie on top of him hurriedly yet carefully. They only part for mere moments to tear off Felix's bottoms, lip locked once they're tossed to the floor. Those long fingers stroke directly against the sensitive spot inside, Felix's chest rising and falling rapidly.

Felix straddles Jeongin's hips, the oversized sweater hiding how wet and hard he is. He's arching to both escape the oversensitive sensation and to milk it. His cock brushes against the sweater, all of his nerves tickle in waves with each touch, "Missed you," He says breathlessly between kisses, his hips moving stiffly. The growth around his midsection has made it harder to move in certain ways.

His husband shivers at his confined length poking against the back of Felix's thigh, "God, you have no idea," Jeongin snakes his free hand to stroke Felix, smirking at his Omega panting against his mouth, "Feels good, Fi?"

It does feel good, almost too good. Felix nods rapidly, "Need you—please—" He grips Jeongin's shoulders, maneuvering Jeongin's prodding cock to

"Soon," Jeongin kisses along Felix's jaw and down his neck between words. His fingers reach deeper inside Felix, spreading him open, "Gotta make sure I won't hurt you," They're caught between urgency and tenderness, "Or them," He thumbs at Felix's stomach.

At times like this, Jeongin's gentle nature is frustration but understandable.

Felix noses at Jeongin's ear, whispering against it heatedly, "You're driving me crazy—please—" His nails scrape across his Alpha's shoulders, pulling him closer.

Jeongin springs upwards. His gaze lingers far longer than he needs to, eyes torn between melting completely and restraint. He slips his fingers slip out of Felix, promptly slipping his pajama bottoms down just enough to free his cock.

Felix lets out a moan at Jeongin using his slick to lube himself up before he's urging Felix down by his hips. The initial stretch burns, Felix's mouth agape with bated breath, "Oh—" He rests his face against Jeongin's, pushing himself down.

His Alpha grips his hips with firm hands, pulling him closer with slow movements to show his need. Jeongin meets Felix's movements with a subtle flex of his thighs but allows Felix to set the pace. He's forcing himself to remain grounded, not allowing himself to move without explicit permission, "Tell me you're okay. I need to hear you say it, Fi."

"I'm okay. You feel so, so perfect," His hot breath fans across Jeongin's ear. He had to slip out a compliment on the sheer volume Jeongin fills him. It could be the pregnancy making him feel absolutely full. Felix's hand rest on Jeongin's shoulders for balance, hips rising and sinking in a wonderous rhythm, "Bigger than I remember."

"You can't expect me to be gentle after saying things like that," Jeongin nips at Felix's bottom lip, suckling before letting it go with a lewd 'pop'.

Felix captures his lips again, "It's true," He curls his arms around Jeongin's neck, carding his fingers through his sweat-damped hair, "My Alpha is large. Barely fits anymore," He smirks, repeating the lip bite and tug back, teasing him. His pace quickens, the skin slapping together with each downward thrust.

Jeongin's cock twitches inside of him. Felix moans at how in an instant, that twitch presses against his most sensitive portion of his insides. He's dying to move faster, Felix knows it, but Jeongin won't, "Fuck," Jeongin drags it out, breathless and strained. His cheeks flushed and a wide smile splayed around his lips, "You're so...sexy," His hand splays across Felix's bump under the oversized sweater. He gazes up at Felix likes he's the most beautiful being.

A spike of affection causes a tightness in his chest. Felix knows Jeongin adores them. His Alpha also accepts the changes their baby is making to his body. He leans in for a kiss to hide how much he truly loves hearing that, even if it makes him a little shy. The vibrations from Jeongin's low groans send shivers down his neck and back. The nerves around his belly run haywire. It's become more sensitive.

Jeongin tugs the sweater down a smidge, only to plant kisses on Felix's shoulder and neck without restrictions, "Fi, please... I can't hold it," He pines against the back of Felix's ear. With the way he's gripping his hips, Felix can tell Jeongin is getting close to popping a knot, "I can't..."

"You can, my Alpha," Felix inhales deeply at Jeongin's cheek. Their scents mingling together drives him mad. It's thickly in the air, Jeongin's sharp coconut scent, his own sweet needy scent. Felix is dizzy with want, "You're being so good, holding back for me," The sticking of their skin keeps his forehead right where he wants him to. Jeongin's hot breath against his ear and sending shivers down his spine, soaking up his needy groans. Jeongin whimpers so sweetly at being praised.

His thighs quake with effort to keep the pace, "Please... I can't breathe," Jeongin presses his nose into the crook of Felix's neck, breath hot and uneven. He wraps his arms around Felix's middle, enveloping him in a tight embrace. Felix's covered stomach presses against Jeongin's.

It's not long before Jeongin's knot begins to expand, "I-I can't hold it, please..." He holds on a little tighter, almost as if he's begging Felix to stop and keep going simultaneously.

"It's okay. I want it, give it to me..." Felix assures with bated breath. He clings onto his husband; movements stilling once he's entirely stuffed. It's been so long since he's had a knot. Tears prick at the corners of his eyes with how large it expands. It borderline hurts, "Why is it so stupidly large?" The knot is overwhelmingly large. Felix hikes the sweater up just enough to avoid spilling his own release all over it.

Jeongin takes a moment to reply through his excitable groans, "S-Sorry, my love. It comes with being stupidly in love with you," He's rubbing the small of Felix's back through the ending of his orgasm.

"Oh my god..." With a hoarse laugh, Felix pinches Jeongin's side, "Why are you like this?"

He snatches Felix's hand, "Hey! You know what you were getting into when you said, 'I do'," Firmly, Jeongin pulls Felix down. Felix melts right into his chest, allowing the knot to do what it needs to do. Twitching and filling.

"I did, didn't I?" Felix doesn't even argue.

Felix yawns at his desk, sending emails out about teacher's conferences and reminding parents that a substitute with be in his place tomorrow due to an appointment. He knows the school sends this stuff out, but he likes to make extra sure parents are well prepared. He's got a three-day weekend and Jeongin is stuck doing overtime. They're together every night and he still misses his husband.

"Dinner plans?"

Seungmin spooks him, "Jeez, warn a guy before you sneak up like that. I almost peed myself," Felix clutches his chest. Indeed, he did almost pee himself, "No, Jeongin is at work until late. I'll probably just get takeout and eat ice cream."

"A warm bowl of ramen sound appetizing with the weather. Think your stomach could handle it?"

Felix tilts his head, "Yeah? I haven't had morning sickness at all. This baby loves food. Hopefully it stays that way when they come out," He turns his monitor off and pulls out a pair of disposable gloves, "Let me sanitize the tables and then we can go."

"'Kay."

He can't quite put his finger on it, Seungmin seems different today. Felix shrugs it off, finishing up in his classroom and turning off the lights, "I'm starved, let's go."

Seungmin throws on a light jacket and scarf, compared to Felix's who's nearly bundled up. Scarf, gloves and a hat. He's given a weird look from his colleagues in passing, everyone knows by now that Felix is in his second trimester. His stomach is fairly round and prominent but not enough to get in the way. Yet.

He climbs into the passenger's seat, buckling up before Seungmin starts the engine. The leaves are pretty oranges and reds. Felix talks about how class went today and about almost tearing up when a student told him he looked like he had a beach ball in his belly. It's funny now but he's a little self-conscious about how his midsection keeps growing.

At the cozy restaurant, they find a corner table to settle into. Felix leans back against the cushioned booth, back cracking a few times, "God my back hurts and this demon isn't even full size yet," He glances over the menu. Pork base, extra eggs and meat, he's salivating already.

Across from him, Seungmin's surveying the menu hardcore, "Does being pregnant hurt?" A vague question, one that Felix believes is out of curiosity. He doesn't mind answering Seungmin.

Felix tilts his head in thought, "Not for me but everyone is different. My back hurts if I'm on my feet for too long or if I sit weird. I only had some tenderness in my chest during the first trimester. Why, am I complaining a lot?"

"No. Just curious."

They order their ramen, Seungmin's looks fairly plain, and Felix got his extra eggs and meat. He's slurping it up, broth dribbling down his chin. Seungmin on the other hand nibbles carefully, as if he's thinking about how to swallow, "You okay? Your stomach upset?" Felix sets his chopsticks down.

"A little. I haven't eaten all day, and ramen sounded good. Now that I'm here..."

"...It's not appetizing," Felix can relate to that. His numerous cravings had Jeongin in the kitchen making odd things. Once he had them, it didn't satisfy him, "Take it back to my place if you can't finish it. Your appetite could return in a flash."

"Your place?"

"I forgot to ask. Forgive me, pregnancy brain," Felix chuckles and rolls his eyes at his forgetfulness, "I need help with organizing some things. Jeongin freaks out if I'm in the nursery alone because he's doing this overprotective thing where he hates if I lift a finger when no one is home watching me. So... wanna come over?"

"Yeah, sure."

They finish up, Seungmin manages to get half of it down and takes the rest with them. Felix watches his close friend carefully. How his complexion is light and the way he's got bags under his eyes. He chalked it up to lack of sleep or him and Changbin are fighting again. When they fight, Seungmin's entire system acts up.

They arrive at his place, it's a bit of a mess with a half-finished crib made in the corner of the living room and all the impulse buys Felix and his mother have made, "Sorry for the mess. Jeongin got called in for overtime and didn't get to finish. I figured we could fold baby clothes. I got them all washed already."

"So, I'm here as free labor," Seungmin mutters.

Felix grins, "And emotional bonding!" He pours a bunch of vibrant clothes onto the sofa, laughing at Seungmin's loving groan. He was going to ask for his help finishing the crib but it's clear Seungmin needs some rest and maybe a chance to open up.

Seungmin marvels at the small onesies and blankets silently.

Folding laundry is his and Jeongin's tradition for when they need to talk about something. It works for others too, keeps the hands busy while the mind races. They don't speak. Sometimes it's healing to be with someone as a silent supporter. Felix doesn't pry with what's going on. At least until he has to double take, noticing the tears welling up in Seungmin's eyes, "What wrong?" Felix asks gently, setting the clothing down to have sole focus.

His friend wipes his eyes, swallowing thickly, "I'm pregnant aga—and I don't know what to do..." Seungmin glances at Felix as if his whole world is falling apart. A burden he's carried on his own has come to light.

Felix is unsure if he should congratulate or apologize. He does neither, only moving so he could his Seungmin properly, "It's gonna be okay, Minnie. I've got you," Feeling Seungmin's shoulders quiver in his arms has him tearing up too. Hearing him cry pains him. He caresses Seungmin's hair, whispers a mantra of 'I'm here. It'll all be okay' against him.

He figured it was a fight or his heat coming soon or simply the cold weather. Never in a million years did he suspect a pregnancy. Based on Seungmin's reaction, he'd guess an unplanned one. A stark contrast from his own experience, "Thank you for trusting me. Tell me how you're feeling when you're ready."

Seungmin composes himself, cheeks pink and eyes swollen. Felix offers him a few tissues which he takes gratefully. He blows his nose, speaking hoarsely, "Long story short: Too many margaritas with our tacos," He scoffs. A nervous laugh claws up his throat, "The condom m-must've broke or slipped off. I don't know..."

He adds on, "I haven't told him... I'm terrified, Lix."

Felix takes a moment to find the right words. This is delicate territory, "I know you and I know Changbin. He loves you. I've seen it. He'll be good to you, take care of you. You don't have to carry this burden alone, Seungmin. You have a village, ya know? Even if it's a little chaotic at times," He takes Seungmin's hand in his, "Of course it is your decision. I won't tell a soul."

Seungmin's eyes are still red. He seems a bit calmer after releasing what's been on his mind, "You're right, I'm not alone. I forget sometimes," A weight lifts off both of their chests, Felix's is grateful he got through to him, even if it was only a little, "Thank you. Maybe... it's not as bad as I was imagining."

Felix rubs the swell of his stomach out of habit, "I won't lie and say it's rainbows and sunshine. It is magical, in its own way. You know, when you're not borderline peeing your pants when you sneeze or those late-night cravings wake you in the dead of night."

"Or the violent gagging at everything," Seungmin adds on somewhat bitter, "Nothing tastes good anymore."

"Perhaps let's try something homemade. My mom brought me some of her dumplings not too long ago. I'll make you some ginger tea too," Felix stands up slowly, "I'm already hungry again anyway."

They're both giggling at the sound of Seungmin's stomach gurgling loudly. Seungmin keeps folding baby clothes, Felix keeping an eye on him from afar. There's more on Seungmin's mind, Felix knows but he doesn't wish to pry.

He's honored that Seungmin opened up to him about an intimate and sacred secret. Felix is proud of himself for providing Seungmin a safe space to vent and a smidge of relief. It's odd watching his capable friend fall apart, then holding himself together while folding baby clothes.

Felix strides back over with some tea and dumplings, turning around to bring a waste basket to the sofa, "Don't force yourself. Small bites. They're very tasty," He watches as Seungmin's hands shake while bringing the dumping to his mouth, taking a bite out of it. When he sees no gagging, Felix's chest floods with relief, "I'll send you home with some."

"They were made for you, I can't..."

"I insist," Felix doesn't allow him to deny him again. Seungmin almost looks softer after a meal. There's some color in his cheeks and the puffiness of his eyes have gone down, "I had a kid today selling gummy worms for 50 won in the back of the classroom today. Bright and early, 9AM."

Seungmin scoffs and rolls his eyes, "Just what these rascals need, sugar. I'm never allowing my child to touch candy until middle school. High school, if they're lucky," He sips on his tea, leaning back into the sofa.

"They'll have to come to Uncle Fifi for treats then. I'll bake them some brownies before sending them back to you," Felix is defiant, loving the idea of spoiling Seungmin's future child, "You'll need to worry about Jisung though. He'd give them candy until the poor baby becomes sick..."

They both cringe, then laugh over the prospects of Uncle Hannie. The earlier tension melting away with each other's company, dumplings and tea. It's natural for them to integrate their children into their future. Felix can already imagine raising them as best friends. Matching outfits, outings together, playdates. It'll be amazing.

As the hour gets late, Changbin's blowing up Seungmin's phone and Seungmin's ignores it for the most part. Felix can tell he's reluctant about going home so he gives him a small push, "Tell him when you're ready."

"If I go home now, I'll burst into tears. I haven't seen him since I found out. A last-minute business trip. As soon as I left the bathroom, he was kissing my cheek and waving goodbye," Seungmin clears his throat, "I didn't want to tell him like that, so I kept it to myself."

"You want to be consoled," Felix fills in the blanks. Seungmin beats around the bush when it comes to complicated emotions, "Let me tell you, I cry a lot. Before I found out I was pregnant, I was crying over potatoes, Jeongin being too nice, about waiting for food. I still cry over a bunch of stuff. As dense as he is, Jeongin did his best to console me. Changbin will too, he's smarter than my husband."

Seungmin laughs and shakes his head, "I know, I know. You know how I am. Complicated."

Felix takes Seungmin's hand in his, moving his thumb across the back of it, "Pregnancy is complicated and one of the most vulnerable things people go through. So go home and bawl your eyes out or curse at him for being a dummy and knocking you up. He's an honorable Alpha, he'll take responsibility," He adds on, "And probably cry with you and apologize like crazy."

Seungmin waves him off, knowing Felix is right, "Yeah, yeah."

"You'll keep me updated, yeah?" Felix squeezes his hand. He ensures that Seungmin knows that He's always here to listen and would love to support whatever decision he makes, though he already has an idea of what Seungmin wants. His friend is scared.

"Of course," Seungmin's eyes soften, giving Felix's hand a squeeze back.

Felix sends him home with a large container of dumplings and an exceedingly tight hug. One that made him almost lose all the air from his lungs. He waves him off and waits until he's down the road to walk back into the house. With Jeongin still not home, he's left in silence.

He stares at the clothing with a gulp. That itch is back, those adorable little outfits enticing him more than any craving has. Surely Jeongin wouldn't mind Felix him putting these away, "Ten minutes tops," Felix hurries over to the clothing, taking a handful carefully to the unfinished nursery.

It's quite plain, a lot of white. At least for now, they plan to decorate it with more color when they find out the gender. It's a little too early to tell yet. Nonetheless, his excitement is there, "Okay, little alien, these are far too cute. Please don't spit up on them too soon, got it?" Felix talks to his growing midsection, "And don't tell your dad I called you that..." He adds on humorously.

He's grown fond of referring them as their 'little alien'.

"These tiny socks are so expensive, you better have tiny feet," Felix happily grumbles while sorting through the loose ones and finding their pair. They're all gifts anyway, other than the furniture, their parents have been diligent on buying everything they see. At least that's the impression they give Felix.

He can already imagine Jeongin putting on two vastly different colored socks if they were thrown into a drawer unpaired. His Alpha has no sense of fashion so Felix will make it easier on them both with his exceptional organizational skills. Years of keeping his an Jeongin's things tidy and cleaning up a classroom have trained him for this moment.

As he's organizing the clothes, he's muttering to the baby more and more, talking about perfect outfits for a beach day, for pictures, comfortable pajamas for nap time and maybe throwing in a few things about matching with Seungmin's baby.

"You'll be like cousins, same grade and everything. Best friends, hopefully," Felix caresses his stomach, feeling the small flutters. He's deluded himself into thinking that it's digestion, not wanting to get overly excited over possible gas, but it's likely fetal movement.

Filled with a satisfaction that some of their gifts have places, Felix sighs contently, "There," It's a work in progress. In time it'll become the prefect space. He turns to walk out of the nursery, only to see Jeongin leaning in the doorway. He gasps and jerks back a pace, "Warn a guy before sneaking up on him!"

He speaks with a mixture of sternness and fondness, "What did we agree on? You're not supposed to be wearing yourself out in here," With a soft sigh, he approaches Felix, bringing him in for a side hug with a hand on his stomach. Jeongin doesn't want him to hurt or overexert himself, "You didn't do anything strenuous? No getting up on chairs?"

Felix shakes his head, gazing at him with those signature puppy eyes, pleading for forgiveness, "No. I put some clothes away. That's all, I swear," He plants a kiss on his jaw and presses Jeongin's hand firmer onto their baby, knowing his husband well, "I only want everything to be perfect for them."

A cheesy smile cracks through Jeongin's demeanor. His thumb swipes across Felix's stomach, "I'm really bad at this stern, protective thing, huh?" Jeongin presses his lips to Felix's temple, "Did you eat anything?"

"Yes. Min and I had ramen, and we ate some of my mom's dumplings. He helped me with the baby clothes until Changbin was calling him home," Felix keeps the rest to himself, though he is giddy about it. Afterall, a promise is a promise, "Did you get your time off to come to my appointment tomorrow?"

"I can only squeeze about an hour in. Will that be enough time?"

Felix frowns, "Yeah, though I want you all to myself after our appointments," He likes to cuddle and have his worries eased as the days to the ending of the pregnancy get smaller. They've still got time; it doesn't make it any easier on Felix.

Maneuvering Felix into his arms to have him lean on him, Jeongin squeezes him a little tighter. Felix melts into his embrace. HIs husband sets his cheek against his mate's, "I know, my Sunshine. How about you see if one of your friends can keep you company afterwards? I'm sure Jisung or Hyunjin would love to see you."

"I'll reach out to them since Seungmin is at work during the day."

Jeongin disentangles them from their embrace. He brings Felix's chin to look at him directly, "Tell you what, I'll bring you home something tasty. Would that make you feel a bit better?"

"Something sweet and a massage. Then I might feel better," Felix pokes his nose. In a flash he's whisked off towards the bedroom, grinning and giggling over Jeongin's sudden show of strength. He doesn't know what he said for his Alpha to suddenly reek of arousal, Felix isn't against it.

Jeongin sets him down on the bed as if he's a precious gem, "I'll massage you very thoroughly tonight," He kisses Felix's chest, down his stomach, stopping just below his bellybutton, "Then again when I get off work."

Felix cards through his hair, "Oral is not a massage, pervert."

"You've never complained before," Jeongin smirks from between his legs. He hikes up Felix's shirt, planting more kisses on his stomach.

"Oh, shut up and get to work," Felix rolls his eyes.

"Yes, sir."

Jisung was available to take him to his appointment while Jeongin is away at work. They'll meet at the hospital while Jisung waits in the car.

His stupid husband kept him up half the night with his breathing, their baby is sitting on his bladder, making it impossible for a restful sleep. The tag of his shirt scratches against his waist. He's freezing and then he's sweltering the next minute, despite it almost being winter.

Needless to say, Felix isn't happy about an abundance of things.

Jisung notices this. How does Felix know he notices? Jisung's stupid mouth opening up to ask one of the worst possible questions to ask him right now, "What's got your panties in a twist?"

"Well, I don't know, Jisung. Maybe it's the fact I barely slept because my husband breathes at night, my back hurts, my bladder is so full that one wrong bump would make me empty it in this very seat and I am starving, so excuse me for not being all rainbows and sunshine," He grumbles, placing his chin in his palm as he stares out the window. He clenches his legs together as best as he can. He should've just headed to the hospital earlier to avoid a car ride where he has to think about not peeing.

"Alright, no twisted panties. Only an annoying husband and back pain. Noted."

Felix crosses his arms, flustered at himself for losing his temper, no matter how mild it was. He sighs after a few beats, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bite your head off. I'm just sore and tired."

Jisung shrugs, "Don't worry about it, babes. I'd be cranky too if I had to deal with all of that. Being hungry is enough to throw my entire mood off. I can't imagine all the rest of it. But hey, at least you get to see your baby today!"

The corners of Felix's lips twitch up, "Yeah, at least I get to see my baby," He rubs his stomach, feeling a hint of movement, "They've been moving around a lot... I think anyway."

"Really, so soon?" Jisung sounds very excited, making Felix's stomach flutter. It's sweet that Jisung wants to touch it, "Can I feel them when we park?"

"It's not hard enough to feel it on the outside yet," He yawns, "It's very subtle. I thought it was digestion or gas but the more often I feel it, the more I think it's them moving around."

"That sounds so cool!" Jisung sighs wistfully, "Can't wait until I feel it myself. Minho wants to wait until were married to have a baby but seeing you all adorable and round is giving me baby fever."

"I'm not that round!"

"Right..."

Felix and Jisung spend their time talking, mainly Jisung yapping about Minho working overtime, which Felix can relate to. He's hardly seen Jeongin the past week. His Alpha comes home late and leaves early in the morning. Felix is trying not to be upset by it, knowing that all of his hard work is for their growing family. That brings him a small bit of comfort amongst the loneliness.

Jisung parks the car at the entrance, "Need me to flag a wheelchair down?"

"Har, har," Felix rolls his eyes as he slips out of the passenger's seat.

"Text me when you're done!"

Felix gives him the middle finger and hears a 'I love you too' before the sliding doors shut. Checking to see if Jeongin is here yet, Felix glances around. Seeing no sign of his husband, he approaches the desk with slumped shoulders and checks himself in.

He toys with the string on the sleeve of his winter coat, gazing at the door as he waits. Felix checks his phone for any indication that Jeongin would be late. Finding nothing, he clicks the tips of his shoes together. He leans back in his chair in an attempt to take some pressure off his back. The lower portion is throbbing.

"Mr. Yang?"

Felix perks up at the nurse with a clipboard. He takes one last look at the door, then stands up to approach her, "Fi!" Felix jumps at Jeongin yelling his name in a quiet waiting room, looking a mess. Rumpled tie, fluffy hair, pink cheeks from exertion, "Oh thank God," He places his hands on his knees in front of Felix, catching his breath.

The other people waiting quietly smile in their direction, "Let's go," Felix on the other hand is pink cheeked from embarrassment. He tugs Jeongin by his arm, following the nurse who gathers his weight and information. She leaves them be after letting them know the doctor will be by soon, "Did you have to yell? Everyone was staring!"

Jeongin grins sheepishly, "Sorry. I didn't want you to think I wasn't coming. I got caught in traffic and got overly excited when I saw you still waiting," He stands beside Felix's helping him get onto the exam table. Felix jumps at Jeongin's thumb caressing under his eye, "Did you not sleep well, my sunshine? Was I too loud this morning?"

At first, Felix wanted to voice his frustrations. Seeing Jeongin's concern has his crankiness disappearing. He pouts, giving Jeongin his best puppy eyes, "My back hurts these days. It's hard to sleep at night."

"I'll massage it when I get home tonight, okay?" Jeongin kisses his cheek. Once he pulls away, he winks, "As promised."

"A real massage. Not the kind with your mouth, yeah?"

Jeongin salutes. His adorable dimples on display as he holds in his laughter, "You have my word, sir."

Felix rolls his eyes and pulls his hand down to hold onto it. Sometimes a playful partner is all one needs to rid themselves of a sour mood. He kisses the back of Jeongin's hand. Jeongin returns the kiss in the same fashion.

Once the tech has arrived, Felix lifts his oversized shirt and shivers at the warmed gel applied to his stomach. His heart thrums against his chest. The tech moves the device across the swell, clicking at the keyboard ever so often, "Everything looks exactly as it should be at this stage," She states warmly, "Would you like to see them?"

Felix nods right away, almost as soon as he's offered to see them while Jeongin replies with much eagerness, "Yes, please! Absolutely." He clears his throat awkwardly and squeezes Felix's hand. His thumb caressing over Felix's knuckle. Felix glances at him for a moment, Jeongin whispering against his ear, "Were really going to see them after so long."

Felix nods once again, focusing back on the dark screen as the tech presses the wand against his belly. The screen flickers, a little form appearing, "A very active little one. Can you feel them moving around?" The tech moves the wand around.

He clears his throat, attempting to clear the lump but his voice still comes out hoarse, "Y-Yeah. I feel flutters a lot," Felix can't tear his eyes from the screen, his vision already blurring up.

"They're starting to look like a person rather than an alien," Jeongin leans down to look closer, jumping at Felix nudging his arm.

"Jeongin..."

"What I mean is that they look real now. Like our baby," His gaze softens at Felix, wiping some of the stray tears falling down his freckled cheeks.

Felt lets out a soft, broken laugh, "They've always been real," Their eyes don't leave the screen a moment after that, Jeongin kissing Felix's temple. Felix can hear the sniffles from his tender-hearted Alpha and the soft 'plop' of Jeongin's tears on his shirt.

"I can actually see the gender today, if you'd like to know."

They both freeze. Felix's hand cramps with how hard he's been squeezing his husband's since the tech came in. That rolling butterfly sensation becomes stronger, "Do we want to know?" Felix asks tentatively, meeting Jeongin's eyes.

"Do we?" Jeongin reverses the question back.

"I think we do... We've waited long enough, haven't we?"

Jeongin nods, "We have."

When the tech reveals the gender, they're both half-laughing and half-sobbing. Tears come out faster now that they're watching each other cry and trying to catch stray tears. It's no use. Felix is clinging onto Jeongin, desperate to keep himself from falling apart (and failing). His entire body is tense yet melting at the same time, shivering from joy. He's perfectly full.

"I'll print some photos for you both. Take all the time you need."

Jeongin kneels beside him, nearly crumpling up onto the floor. His forehead touches Felix's hand, "You did good, Fi. Our baby is healthy and so beautiful..."

Felix cards his free hand though Jeongin's tangled hair, "We did good," Watching Jeongin sob against him both breaks and fills his heart, "I couldn't do this without you, Jeongin," Felix sits up carefully to wipe the gel off and situate himself to where Jeongin's head is on his lap, hugging his leg, "My, my, you're a water fountain today."

"I-I can't help it! It's... It's too much," He admits all choked up, shaking and sniveling against Felix's thigh.

"You're okay, I'm just teasing. Let it all out," Felix pats his head, rubbing along his shoulders and neck to soothe. He'd lean over and press kisses everywhere if he could, "I've got you," He murmurs every so often until Jeongin lifts his head, "Feeling better now?"

Jeongin nods, "Do you think everyone at work will know I just cried?"

Felix sucks air in through his teeth, wiping the underside of Jeongin's eye. It's sticky with damp tears, "Maybe a little. Your handsome face is all swollen."

"I don't want to go back to work," He lays his head back down, snuggling into Felix's thigh, "I want to stay home with you and cuddle in the nest."

"Quicker you get back, the quicker you can come home to us."

"You're right," Jeongin wipes his face on his sleeve and stands up, "I'll work really fast and try to come home on time tonight. Maybe we could have a late dinner together? Or even some of the sweets I'll bring home."

"As long as we're together," Felix plants a kiss on his cheek, "Let's get going before the entire office whispers about us, yeah?"

Jeongin's cheeks become dusted a deep crimson, "Quickly, now," He's tugging a giggling Felix behind him, who's walking a normal pace just to fluster his husband. Felix stops by the front to grab their photos. All the nurses and front desk agents disperse, looking unnatural at random objects or computer screens behind the desk.

Felix stops by the bathroom to empty his bladder, finally. They stop outside into the nippy air. Winter is upon them soon. Apologetically, Jeongin glances over at Felix, to which Felix smiles up at him, "Come home soon, okay?"

"Mhn, I will," Jeongin gives him one last kiss, "I love you, both of you."

"We love you too," Felix waves Jeongin off. With Jeongin in his car, he looks around for Jisung, who's scrolling on his phone and listening to some music in the driver's seat. Felix knocks on the window, cackling at Jisung dropping his phone on the floorboard and nearly falling down with it. He opens the passenger's door, "That's for this morning."

Jisung rolls his eyes, gathering himself back up, "Oh whatever... You seem to be in a better mood. Was seeing baby what you needed?"

Felix grunts in agreement as he puts on his seatbelt, "Everything was perfect. Baby is healthy and that's all that matters. The doctor said they're active too. I see a baby with high energy in my future."

"With Jeongin as their dad? Fi, that's a given," Jisung starts the engine up, "Wanna get an early lunch? I'm thinking something warm and cozy."

"Hangover soup?"

"Babes, it's been months since you've had a hangover. It's not at satisfying without the hangover," Jisung groans, "Fine but once you're ready, all of us are going out and getting shitfaced, no excuses!"

"When everyone is ready!" Felix replies enthusiastically. They'll be waiting for another few months when Seungmin finally gives birth. He sighs dreamily, already so excited, and a hint of nervousness, about having a child around the same time as one of his closest friends. He knows Seungmin hasn't said a word and likely won't for a while.

Their little secret.

With food in front of him and a mouth full of drool, Felix digs in eagerly, sipping between groans. Hangover soup hits the spot, hangover or none. Jisung enjoys his too, slurping across from him, "Did you ever get morning sickness or anything bad? You always look like you're glowing, aside from early this morning but the glow is back."

Felix shakes his head, swallowing first, "No. I got hysterical crying as my worst symptom. I could cry if Jeongin sighs in the wrong tone. Other than that, I eat basically everything."

"Lucky. My sister vomited every time she'd get near an open fridge. They have a stench to her apparently," Jisung shrugs, "I hope I have an easy time too. Ya know, when Minho finally decides to propose," He grits out, shoveling another bite into his mouth.

"In time, Ji. I'm sure you'll have your dream proposal, if not better than you imagined," He pokes him with his foot under the table, "Your wedding will be so dreamy too. I imagine many whimsical-like decorations and his vows will surely bring you to tears," Minho is known for being passionate when it counts. Subtly is his nature, until it's not, a few drinks will loosen him right up.

"You're right. Maybe I'm being impatient," Jisung pouts, "We've been together for almost 7 years. It feels like the next step for us. Hyunjin and Chan were together less time and are already engaged I have a feeling Changbin or maybe even Seungmin will propose soon. You're already married with a house and a baby. I don't want to be left behind."

A swirl in his gut suddenly doesn't make the food taste right anymore-- guilt. He has everything Jisung dreams of and Jisung feeling needy isn't wrong of him. A proposal, marriage is a natural step for most couples.

"Do you think there's something wrong with me? Why hasn't he asked yet? Don't you think he'd know by now?" Jisung questions quietly, setting down his spoon.

Felix grabs his hand, giving it a squeeze, "Nothing is wrong with you. Minho is obsessed with you. He's probably planning the sappiest, most over-the-top proposal out of all of us," He gives Jisung a napkin, dabbing the bit of soup on his chin, "I understand though. Watching everyone else hit millstones makes you feel like you're running behind us but you're not. You're simply... waiting for your moment. It'll come. I promise."

Jisung yanks the napkin out of Felix's hand, "You're too good at this comforting crap. It's so annoying," He clicks his tongue, pretending to be irked, "You're younger than me and so good at this relationship stuff."

"I'm younger than you by one day, Jisung."

"Still!" Jisung whines, "I'm supposed to be comforting you while your man is away and I'm just bringing the mood down."

"You're not—"

"No more about me...Tell me about the ultrasound!" Jisung shovels a bite of soup into his mouth, Felix does the same.

Felix doesn't push the issue any longer, though he feels guilty from not being able to help and Jisung doesn't seem willing to talk about the issue. One this is for certain, Jisung isn't willing to open up about it. He sighs, closing the conversation for himself, "We found out the gender of our baby today."

"REALLY?! Why didn't you start with that?!"

"Jeongin and I haven't discussed if were telling people yet," Felix pouts, Jisung mirrors him with a grunt that has Felix chuckling, "Come here," As Jisung leans across the table, Felix whispers in his ear. His heart flutters with sharing such an intimate secret, "But tell no one. I mean it!"

The biggest smile plasters across Jisung's face, "You got it babes!" He salutes, "I'm going to be the favorite uncle. I just know it!"

Truthfully, Felix doesn't trust Jisung to keep it to himself. Knowing him, Minho will know and then it might slip out in conversation with their friend group. Felix doesn't mind either way, so long as baby is healthy. He caresses the swell, mind wandering to the future. Will their daughter inherit his freckles and Jeongin's dimples?

If their baby has any of Jeongin's features, his eyes, his laughter, his smile, Felix is entirely screwed.