Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Jeongin is tired. 

Just as he thought he was starting to recover his energy at the end of the first trimester (or at least, getting used to the new energy levels) his body decided to change in uncomfortable ways. Between his tender nipples and the growing baby bump, he can’t sleep on his stomach like he prefers. Trying to sleep on his back only causes him to wake in pain with his spine feeling like he’s tied it in a knot. Sleeping on his side seems like the answer, but his hips are aching by the time he wakes in the morning. 

Maybe he needs one of those side sleeping pillows. He’s seen pregnancy pillows, but they look similar to side sleeping pillows, at a much steeper cost. For the time being, he’ll just try putting his extra pillow between his legs and see if that helps. If it does, then he’ll invest in one of those special pillows.

It certainly doesn’t help him get a full night’s sleep when he wakes up with an incessant need to take a piss. What’s worse is that he knows it will only get worse in the days and months to come as the pup gets bigger and the amount of room allotted to his bladder becomes even smaller. All of his organs feel like they are shoved into a small tin like a school of sardines.

There are times when he feels disgruntled, but no one coerced or compelled him into carrying the pup. He volunteered to do so, and even after being given many opportunities to back out, he insisted on going through with his original offer. As if each time someone told him he wasn’t obligated it fed the stubborn gremlin inside of him, making him more determined.

He doesn’t regret agreeing to carry the pup. Jeongin maintains the belief that Chan and Felix will be wonderful parents, and there is no partnership he knows which is more loving, considerate and caring. While no one is entitled to a perfect life, and even with the best plans, life will find a way to cause some havoc, Jeongin remains confident in his decision.

Jeongin tries to find happiness and joy in being pregnant.  Though it's impossible to deny how cumbersome and awkward it is. Some smells he used to like now cause him to feel ill, like corn dogs and oranges. He’s more easily overwhelmed when out in public, especially when he’s on his own. His omega seeks safety and seclusion. He hasn’t felt that way since Minho’s offer to drive him to and from work; he’s so rarely left alone, and never by himself in a large crowd.

Hyewon’s belief that they were dating the other week had shocked him, but he could see her perspective. From an outside point of view, they were close, and Minho’s role as Jeongin’s support alpha during the pregnancy could easily convince anyone that there was more between them than their long time friendship.

As the pregnancy progresses, and it becomes harder to hide by the loose clothing Jeongin wears, he suspects that more people will likely make similar conclusions. He’ll have to think about what he wants to say, if anything, to counter their assumptions.

Even now, wearing his loosest sweater, he has to watch how he moves or he’ll show off his slight baby bump. Knowing he can’t avoid the conversation any longer without making things difficult at work, he has set up a meeting with HR and the principal to disclose his status. He’s past the first trimester, and the risk of miscarriage is significantly reduced. The school will also need to make plans for May and beyond as he’ll be on leave. For his students’ sake alone, he’ll provide the school with enough notice to find a good substitute.

Giving the classroom one last glance, he’s pleased with how clean it is. All the music stands are in their proper place by the back of the room. The chairs are aligned in their curved rows, waiting for the choral class first thing on Monday. The board at the front of the room has been wiped clean, the dry markers all placed neatly in their tray. Jeongin just finished dusting the piano keys and closing the fall. Having run a couple scales, his perfect pitch tells him it’s almost time to have the tuner come visit again, though he’s likely the only one who will notice right now.

It’s a little later than he’d like to leave the school on a Friday, but it meant he’d be able to take his time cleaning and tidying the music room. Minho was going to be late due to an extended lesson. Something that was likely to happen more frequently as they approached the holiday season. The studio has a  winter performance that all the instructors are gearing up towards, and students are putting in extra time to be ready. 

Jeongin could take transit back to the apartment by himself if he wanted. He doesn’t feel as overwhelmed by scents as he had earlier in the pregnancy, but it’s still not a comfortable experience. His feet are rather sore at the end of the day, and he doesn’t feel entitled to sit in one of the pink seats, meant for the pregnant, old or otherwise impaired. He’s not really showing yet, and with the typical bias against male omegas he’d be expected to quickly yield the seat to anyone else who could claim it; it’s not worth the fight.

Waiting an additional hour for Minho is mildly mitigated by the drive taking half the time as public transit, due to the routes the bus takes. Maybe if they weren’t planning on going grocery shopping on their way home, it would make sense to take the bus, but getting home only to turn around twenty minutes later when Minho arrives to go shopping seems like a waste. The time is better spent in ensuring the classroom is set up properly for the coming week. One less thing to worry about over the weekend.

In the same vein of less things to worry about over the weekend, Minho usually grocery shops on Saturday, but with the additional dance practices, his weekend is being consumed by the studio. Minho had offered to drop Jeongin off home before going grocery shopping, but he’d declined. Jeongin hasn’t been grocery shopping in months, allowing Minho to see to that chore. While Jeongin’s mother had trained him to make a list before shopping, and sticking to the list to avoid impulsive purchases, it could be fun to walk around and see what might interest him, or the pup. 

Minho is already waiting in the parking lot when Jeongin exits the school. While Minho claims he hasn’t been waiting long, and the additional snow on the windows supports that claim, Jeongin knows that even if he’d been made to wait, Minho would deny it. If he’d been waiting too long, he’d have sent a text, so Jeongin knows it couldn’t have been more than ten minutes or so.

Inside the grocery store, Minho offers to let Jeongin push the cart so he has something to lean on. It’s an offer that Jeongin happily accepts, taking some weight off his feet.

“If you were smaller, I’d just let you sit in the cart, and I’d push it.” Minho pulls a cart out and wheels it over to Jeongin.

“Hyung, I’m almost thirty.”

“Are you saying you wouldn’t sit in the cart and let me wheel you about if you could?” Minho smirks.

Feeling petulant, Jeongin snags the cart and starts heading towards the produce section. Minho’s trailing behind him, fiddling with his phone as he looks for their list. Jeongin slows as he hears Minho rush to catch up to him.

“Let’s do the produce last this time.”

“What? Why?” Jeongin asks, looking around to figure out why Minho’s suggesting a change to their regular routine. There, by the fruits, his eyes catch on someone who looks familiar. “Is that Sanghee-ssi?”

“Hmm.” Minho’s expression goes flat, devoid of feeling. It’s the only way Jeongin can think to explain it. He doesn’t like it, not one bit. 

“Okay hyung. We’ll just shop around her. It’s not a big deal.”

They move to the other sections of the store, they’ll skip forward, pick up their canned and dried goods, dairy and eggs, frozen foods and then circle back to produce. Jeongin follows Minho around as they go up and down the aisles. He’s trying not to feel guilty about how Minho’s relationship ended with Sanghee. He knows they broke things off the night they had planned a fancy dinner, and they’d done so because Felix told Minho about Jeongin’s break up with Daehyun.

Jeongin knows he isn’t to blame. Minho had even told him that things weren’t working out between the two of them and he was tired of how jealous she was getting about his friendship. Even if the one friendship she kept pointing out was the one Minho had with Jeongin, that’s not his fault. Sanghee was insecure and controlling while they were together. Even if Jeongin hadn’t been around, he hopes Minho would have been smart enough to get out of that sort of relationship.

They’re walking past the pasta sauces, the noodles, rice, and packaged dry soups while Minho’s scrolling through the list. “Rice. Almost forgot the rice.”

Jeongin turns around to head back down the aisle to grab the large bag of rice he knows Minho keeps in his pantry when Minho catches the back of his shirt and pulls him backwards. The front of his shirt is held taut over his torso, leaving his baby bump defined, just as Sanghee walks around the corner.

“It's too heavy for you to lift. Let hyung get it.”

Jeongin stumbles backwards. He doesn’t think Minho knows she’s there yet. He can feel Minho’s hands on his waist, helping him regain his balance. Seeing Sanghee stalk towards them, the scowl on her face, Jeongin goes still. He catches a brief trace of his own scent, mouldy and stale, before it’s overpowered by Sanghee’s sour and rancid lemonade.

He knows the moment Minho realises who is now in the aisle with them, the click-clacking of her heels heavy on the floor, because Minho’s hands release his waist. Stepping in front of Jeongin, Minho’s spine straightens, and his broad shoulders tense, waiting for impact.

“I knew it.” Sanghee’s fingers, tapered with sharp red nails, tremble as she points at them. “You denied it. You always fucking denied it. But here you are, barely months later, and with pup, already? I knew it. You’re a fucking liar, Lee Minho. Asshole.”

Shaking behind Minho, Jeongin holds onto the side of the cart because he doesn’t want to prevent Minho from moving. He knows his scent is all over the place, stressed by the situation, worried for the pup, for Minho, and feeling threatened. He wants to run, run away, hide. He needs his den, his nest. He bites his lips together as a whimper escapes his throat.

Minho growls, even as the alpha’s scent builds and curls around Jeongin. If he were to close his eyes, he could imagine himself deep in a forest, a burbling stream beside him with a campfire to keep him warm. Jeongin doesn’t feel any less threatened, but the panic of his omega settles and the incessant need to run fades. He lifts his head, watching Sanghee from over Minho’s shoulder.

“Don’t you dare!” Her lips curl back, as she hisses, her words spitting into Minho’s face, “How dare you try to calm me?”

“I didn’t do it for you.”

Her eyes flash and her finger moves to point at Jeongin. “No, he did it for you. Little slut. Such a whore, can’t keep your paws off him. So needy, desperate, always wanting him around, can’t just leave him alone.”

Minho catches her wrist when she steps forward, looking to jab at him with her nails. “The pup isn’t mine.”

She laughs, a horrible strained sound as she tries to shake her arm free of Minho’s grasp. “You really are a slut, aren’t you? His sweet precious Iyen-ah. Get knocked up and then come around begging for hel—”

“—The pup isn’t his either,” Minho growls out the words. “Not that it should matter. What I choose to do now has nothing to do with you.”

She wails, but the running store clerk isn’t fast enough to stop her from slapping Minho across the face. Jeongin watches as Minho turns his head, cheek already red where he was struck.

Jeongin’s eyes narrow. He steps to the side to confront her, even as the store clerk is doing his best to separate them. Jeongin needs to clear the air. He knows Minho met her because she works at a music company, and his studio is working out a contract to provide choreography for their groups. 

“Sanghee-ssi, the only relationship between us then and now is friendship,” Jeongin attempts to reason. Why does his omega, called to the forefront by this confrontation, whimper at those words? “The issues you have, they are not with Minho-ssi. Your insecurity has you seeing things which are not true. Please reflect upon your actions.”

Sanghee spits towards them as she’s dragged away, vitriol still spewing from her lips.

Minho sighs once she’s gone and moves to stand beside Jeongin, placing a hand upon the small of his back. “Are you alright?”

Jeongin takes a deep breath and leans towards Minho, breathing in the alpha’s scent of crisp mountain air. “I’ll be better when we’re home. Let’s finish up quickly?”

Minho nods and steps away. Before he can go pick up their rice, the store manager is there, apologising for the incident, and letting them know Sanghee was escorted to her car, and she has driven away. After thanking the manager, they swiftly finish up their shopping, ensuring they complete their list. 

Jeongin doesn’t think about adding any extras to the cart. This is not the fun experience he’d hoped for at the end of his work week. He’s still jittery from the conflict, and his omega, while not panicking, is insistent that they need to find a safe place to recover.

It’s not until much later that evening, resting up against Minho with Soonie, Doongie, and Dori laying over their legs that Jeongin begins to settle. Minho made dinner while he had a shower. He dressed in his own clothes, but was quick to accept the proffered hoodie from Minho. With Minho’s arms around him, Jeongin’s omega is at peace.

“I’m sorry for what happened earlier,” Minho whispers against Jeongin’s temple.

“Hyung, no. None of that was your fault. I’m just glad you were with me.” Jeongin presses closer into Minho’s side. He doesn’t want to think about what might have happened had he been alone.

“I still feel responsible.”

“Minho-hyung, she was insecure and jealous. She tried to control who you saw while you were dating. She wanted to take you away from all your friends and isolate you,” Jeongin points out, stubbornly hoping to get through to Minho. “She needs help. She’s toxic. None of which is your fault or your responsibility. You didn’t make her attack us like that. We tried to avoid her.”

“Hmm.”

The noise isn’t as affirming as Jeongin would hope. If he can’t convince Minho with words, then perhaps he can ease Minho’s need to protect and be responsible for Jeongin’s well being in a different way. Slowly, Jeongin concentrates, letting his scent of warm fresh sweet bread encompass them.

Minho nuzzles his nose behind Jeongin’s ear. “You’re doing this on purpose.”

“Of course.” Jeongin tries not to sound smug, but he knows he’s failed based on Minho’s response.

“Yah, brat.” The words are fond, a quarter of the volume Minho might state them at any other time.

“Even if you don’t believe me, your alpha needs to know that I’m not upset or angry with you. That I feel safe and protected. That my omega trusts you to take care of me.”

“Iyen-ah.” Minho’s arms tighten about him. “Would you like to be scented before you head home to bed? Would it help?”

Jeongin nods, his cheek rubbing against Minho’s chest. “Yeah hyung. I think that’d be perfect.”

Their encounter with Sanghee lingers in Minho’s thoughts. Not only for how it brings his past relationship into the present, but also for how their most recent interaction can affect his job. There’s no fear that he’ll be dismissed; he’s worked with the studio even before he graduated. As a dance crew, they’ve done tours and competitions. His work is valued, and his coworkers respect him and seek out his opinions. While the studio will continue to prosper, even if the contract with the company Sanghee represents falls through, having the additional exposure, and additional reliable income would help them grow.

Sanghee hadn’t held that position when they’d started their relationship, but Minho is aware that the tentative offer was likely made because of it. The offer hadn’t been withdrawn when the relationship fell apart, so it’s unlikely that it will now, but Minho had still talked to the other partners to make them aware of the potential issue. He doesn’t want anyone to get blindsided by any retaliatory action Sanghee makes.

 What has Minho most unsettled isn’t Sanghee herself, but rather the way he had reacted at the time, and even afterwards. That he is willing to protect Jeongin is a given. By nature and character, Minho is inclined to protect others. With Jeongin being a close friend, he would always step in to ensure his safety. What he hadn’t expected was his alpha clamouring to protect Jeongin, to guard the omega, his omega. 

He’s glad Jeongin allowed himself to be scented before heading back to his own apartment that night, because Minho’s not sure his alpha would have been so easy to quell if Jeongin had denied Minho’s instincts to both calm and mark.

What is most troubling, is that his alpha’s need to stake some claim on Jeongin for his protection hasn’t faded. Thankfully, Jeongin’s been happy to wear Minho’s hoodies and sweaters. 

Last weekend, Jeongin had asked to be scented. His stomach had been troublesome, and he wasn’t sleeping well. Minho had complied, his alpha preening the entire time. 

In the past, his relationships had floundered because he didn’t talk about how he felt, his partners hadn’t recognised the care and thoughtfulness that went into his actions, or due to the strength of his alpha’s reactions. Minho figured he was doomed to be misunderstood.

Yet, he believes Jeongin understands him, in as much as anyone can. They speak the same language when it comes to showing how they care for others, guided by actions rather than words. Knowing that Jeongin’s omega wants his alpha to understand that Jeongin feels protected, secure and safe is terrifying. All his dating history proves he’s not deserving of that level of trust. There will come a time where Jeongin won’t see clearly how Minho cares for him, or his alpha will overstep.

Minho can feel their relationship shifting and changing, and his footing doesn’t feel grounded. This, whatever they have now, is not sustainable. Jeongin accepts him as an alpha figure because he’s a stand-in for Chan. It’s not that complicated, no matter what his alpha may want, or how his heart has begun to yearn.

It could just be the required proximity that’s making him think these things. That the situation is causing him to muddle what is real with what is not. If he hadn’t experienced this, he may have never wanted Jeongin at all. He had never thought of Jeongin this way before, and likely never would have. 

None of that matters though. Minho will perform his duty, be true to his promise, and support Jeongin throughout the pregnancy until the birth of the pup.

Which is why he had to make arrangements with another instructor and swap classes today. Jeongin’s first ultrasound appointment is this afternoon. Jeongin had booked the appointment when the school would be closed for the day. Chan had offered to accompany Jeongin to the appointment as his schedule was not as structured, but Minho knows things are just starting to fit back in place for Chan with Yongbok.

Neither Chan nor Yongbok want to know the pup’s sex. Jeongin’s proclamation that he’s bad with secrets means Dr. Park won’t disclose anything during the ultrasound other than the relative health of the pup.

When Minho picks up Jeongin up from the apartment, he’s all decked out in winter apparel. A warm woollen hat, the long puffer jacket which looks fit to bursting its seams at Jeongin’s waist. His mitten clad hands are tucked into his pockets, and his fur-lined boots look like oversized slippers on his feet. Around his neck is Minho’s scarf from their walk the month before; Jeongin hadn’t offered to return it and Minho hadn’t asked.

They’re early to the appointment, which means they end up waiting longer in the cramped waiting room than Minho would like as the doctor’s running behind schedule. 

Minho makes the best of it, finding Jeongin an open seat near the fan, hoping that will help drive the other scents away. Jeongin’s not mentioned it lately, but Minho suspects that too many scents could still be problematic. After the first five minutes, Jeongin looked like he was overheating, swaddled in all his garments. Minho took his coat, hat, scarf and mittens and held them over his lap so Jeongin could be more comfortable.

While there is no change to Jeongin’s scent, Minho can feel him shift in his chair, trying to get comfortable. “Is everything okay?”

Jeongin stills and looks at him, his expression akin to that of a child caught with his hand in the cookie jar. Why does he look guilty? “Just impatient. I didn’t know we’d have to wait, and I know you’ve got a class to teach.”

Minho pats Jeongin’s knee before he stands up, “Don’t worry about that. Bada-noona already said she’d stay until I got back, just in case. I’ll go ask how much longer though.” Minho shoots him a little smirk. “I’ll also ask where the toilets are.”

“Yeesh,” Jeongin hisses as he blushes. “Don’t pick on me for my compressed bladder.”

Giggling as he walks away, Minho heads to the counter. He has a short conversation with the receptionist before heading back to his seat. He doesn’t want to leave Jeongin alone for too long, but on his way back, it appears Jeongin’s made conversation with the woman beside him.

Though hidden, Minho knows Jeongin’s smiling shyly behind his raised hand. His alpha’s raised hackles are easily soothed by noting the way Jeongin leans forward to engage, and the narrowed squint of his eyes, speaking to his comfort or amusement with their shared discourse. The woman is obviously pregnant, and radiates with joy. If he had to guess, Minho would suspect this visit would likely be her last before she gave birth.

He slows his approach so they can speak a while longer. He knows Dr. Park had mentioned there were groups of expecting mothers that Jeongin could join for support to be able to talk about how the pregnancy progresses, and the daily ups and downs of carrying a pup. So far as he knows, Jeongin hasn’t joined one, at least not one in person. Maybe after this Minho should urge him to consider doing so. The only person in their friend group that’s had experience is Yongbok, and Minho already knows Jeongin wouldn’t go to him for help. It’d be too painful.

“How far along are you?”

“Thirteen weeks now,” Jeongin admits, “I’m starting to feel like I’m getting my energy back.”

The woman laughs. “Enjoy it while you can. Soon you’ll feel so heavy, you won’t want to move. I’ve been waiting here for so long I wish my Minseok were here to help me stand up when I’m called. My knees feel so old!”

“There’s only one person before us now, and the toilets are down the hall to the left.” Stepping closer, Minho places his hand on Jeongin’s shoulder. “I’m sorry your partner couldn’t be here with you. When you’re called, I’ll help you stand, if you like.”

“That would be lovely,” she says, leaning back so Jeongin can pick up the winter garments Minho had left behind so he can sit again. “Usually he wouldn’t travel this close to my due date, but there’s an emergency at work, and he’s up for a promotion, and when you’re a beta you have to…” She waves her hand with a bashful lowering of her eyes. “Ah, you don’t need to hear about that.”

“Work ten times harder?” Minho offers with a rueful grimace. He knows that in many ways, he exists within a place of privilege. He’s an alpha, and the daily fights of the omegas and betas to be recognized as valued and equal members of the workforce is something he can never fully understand. “You have other pups?”

She nods, seemingly happy to be distracted, “Yes, two. We’re so lucky Eomma came to visit a month before. She’s home with them now. Else I’d have them here with me, and they would not do well with the wait. They’re five and three and they don’t care to just sit around. This is your first?”

Minho blinks slowly, trying to figure out how or if he should explain their circumstances when Jeongin rests his large hand over his stomach and says, “Yes.”

Turning his head to look at Jeongin, he blinks again. He can feel the heat in his ears, matching the brush of rosy hue along Jeongin’s sharp cheekbones. Are they less sharp than they used to be? Somehow, Jeongin seems to soften as the pregnancy progresses, his chest is fuller, his butt was more supple when he’d last given it a playful tap.

Minho supposes this is no different than when he hadn’t bothered to correct the sales clerk the other day. Neither of them are likely to see the woman again. Nor is she entitled to knowing about their lives. Even if he does have to remind his preening alpha that the pup isn’t theirs. That Jeongin isn’t theirs. Only to feel as if his alpha has turned its back to him and is now sulking.

Remaining quiet for the rest of the conversation, Minho rises to his feet when the woman looks up as her name is called. He offers his hands to help her stand and only lets go when she loosens her own grip. “I hope your family is all together again when the pup arrives,” Minho says.

“I hope so too.” She smiles, looking between Minho and Jeongin. “The two of you are in for an adventure. It won’t always be easy, and there’s really no manual for parenting. Just talk to each other and you’ll do well.”

Minho arches a brow as he looks at Jeongin, who blushes in response, and demurely says, “Thank you, noona.”

Though the words are hushed, spoken under her breath, the darkening hue of Jeongin’s cheeks informs Minho that they both heard her say, “Such a lovely couple,” as she walked away.

They sit in silence while they wait. It doesn’t bother Minho. It’s a waiting room and there’s not much to do. The music is quietly ambivalent in the background, there as a comfort rather than a distraction. Or at least, it doesn’t bother him until he notices how Jeongin’s scent has withdrawn, how Jeongin is glancing at him, but not meeting his eyes, and how Jeongin’s picking at his nails again.

Minho places a hand over Jeongin’s to prevent him from destroying his cuticles. “Iyen-ah?”

“I’m sorry, hyung.”

What? Jeongin can’t still be feeling guilty about taking him away from the studio, can he? “I told you it’s okay. Bada-noona’s covering for me. She doesn’t mind. She said she’ll let me pay her back later.”

Jeongin shakes his head, “No, not that. For not correcting the assumption that we’re a couple.”

Minho blinks, and then blinks again more slowly. Oh, so that’s what’s been worrying him. Minho pats Jeongin’s hand and releases a steady calm scent of mountain air, pine trees and dew on wildflowers. “It’s okay. We’ll probably never see her again, and she doesn’t need to know all the details. She’ll go home later, talk to her Minseok and tell him about how she met the loveliest couple who are expecting their first pup today, and it hurts no one to think that.”

No one, except his alpha perhaps, who is still sulking over having been reminded that neither the pup, nor Jeongin are theirs.

Though Jeongin smiles, he doesn’t appear to be convinced, and his scent doesn’t perk up as Minho had hoped it would. Minho’s about to lean forward and nudge him playfully until his mood improves, but Jeongin’s name is called. He's left scrambling to pick up all the winter apparel so he can race to catch up and slide into the room the attendant holds open for them.

Minho’s glad it doesn’t take Dr. Park long to join them, because he’s not sure what to say or do to break Jeongin out of his funk. He doesn’t know what caused it. Jeongin had seemed cheerful and happy earlier. Minho sets the concerns aside for later. If Jeongin doesn’t seem better after the appointment, then he’ll figure it out.

Having introduced himself, Minho finds Dr. Park is as cordial in person as she is in emails. Minho notices Jeongin’s curious expression when Dr. Park asks him if he has any follow up questions regarding the alpha behavioural studies she’d forwarded to him. Internally he winces. Perhaps he should have mentioned to Jeongin he’d reached out to ask for any studies or advice on how to help his alpha accept and care for a pup that isn’t his. 

Minho knows his alpha can be territorial and possessive. He wanted to make the transition from Chan and Yongbok caring for Jeongin as easy as possible. The last thing Jeongin needed was another instinctual outburst that would cause him to feel even more isolated or abandoned. Thankfully, being in close proximity to one another, spending time in each others’ homes, and Jeongin’s easy acceptance of wearing his hoodies or being scented had his alpha content enough to overlook any change in Jeongin’s condition. 

It probably also helps that if they’d been running out in the woods, Chan would be the leader of their wolf pack. In modern days, living in civilization, they haven’t formed a pack, but his alpha still understood the hierarchy. He didn’t know if he or Changbin would be Chan’s chosen second, but it also doesn’t matter at the end of the day. If there was something Chan or their friends needed, neither he or Changbin would be fighting over who got to take care of it; they’d be working together to see it done.

“No, thank you, Dr. Park,” Minho says, scratching at the back of his neck. He glances at Jeongin sheepishly. “Everything you sent over was really helpful. I’m glad some studies had been done.”

“As was I. While in vitro isn’t exactly new, most of the scientific world is quite willing to see ourselves as civilised, and overlook our secondary genders and their instinctual needs. It can be difficult to find recent studies on bringing in new members to a pack, or accepting the offspring of a new partner from a prior mate. Most of the research goes into the study of the omegas involved in the surrogacy process.” Dr. Park turns to the computer and pulls up Jeongin’s file. “I got the results from your latest blood tests, and everything looks good. I’ll take your blood pressure, get you weighed and then do the ultrasound. I know the parents of the pup don’t want to know the sex, but do you?”

Jeongin vehemently shakes his head. “No, I can’t be trusted not to let something slip.”

Minho laughs. Jeongin is hopeless with secrets.

“Well then, if the pup isn’t shy and does wish to let us know, I’ll write it down and seal it in an envelope.” She turns to Minho. “Can you be trusted?”

“I’ll put it in a good hiding spot and make them ask me twice before I hand it over.”

The doctor nods, and proceeds with the rest of the examination. Jeongin’s blood pressure is a little higher than it was before, but that is expected at this point in the pregnancy. His weight is increasing within limits, and overall the doctor appears pleased as she helps Jeongin settle back on the examination bed for the ultrasound.

While Jeongin is watching the screen, Minho is looking at Jeongin’s face. The awe and yearning which passes over his features makes Minho’s heart clench. If only there was something he could do to help Jeongin realise his own dreams.

“Go away, hyung.” Jeongin steps away from the warmth of Minho’s arm around his shoulder, and dodges Minho’s attempt to pull him back in. “Stop it.”

He fights back the urge to pout as Minho laughs. At any other time, he’d cross his arms over his chest, but that’s become more difficult to do lately, and besides, they’re getting some questionable looks from other people while they stand there in the middle of the mall walkway.

With a belaboured sigh, Jeongin tugs Minho off to the side. “Hyung, I can’t have you with me when I buy your present.”

A frown decorates Minho’s face as he leans closer to be heard over the music playing on the mall speakers. In the background, there’s also the sound of all the people, the swishing of fabrics as they pass by each other, the wet thud of boots trampling through snow they’ve trudged inside now melting on the floor, and the rumbling susurrus of constant chatter. “Why not?” Minho says, “I already know whatever you get me, I’ll appreciate it. You’re thoughtful that way.”

“And I suppose it’s alright if I’m there while you buy my present?”

Minho smirks. “I already have your present.”

Jeongin huffs, “Hyung, I want it to be a surprise.”

Listing to the side with the bags of presents they’ve already purchased, Minho looks around the busy mall with a disgruntled expression. “Do you have your phone with you, or did you leave it with your jacket in the car?”

Patting his pocket, Jeongin feels the case of his phone press into his thigh. “I’ve got it with me.”

“You’ll be okay by yourself? It’s crowded in here.”

“Hyung, I’ll be fine. I can handle this on my own.” It’s not like this is the first time he’s ever been out shopping by himself.

“Meet back here in an hour then?”

Jeongin nods and pulls out his phone to set his timer for 50 minutes. He can get back to this spot in ten minutes from anywhere in the mall. He has a rough idea of what he wants to get Minho, but there’s only two stores he’ll need to visit.

When they part ways, his first stop is the book store. Minho has yet to pick up Keigo Higashino's most recent book. It’s an easy gift. The most difficult part was telling everyone else not to get it for him. Everyone knows who Minho’s favourite author is.

The other part of the gift Jeongin wants to give Minho is more difficult. He knows very little about hiking. Walking around in the outdoors is not one of his favourite things to do, but he knows Minho enjoys it. Jeongin’s gone camping from time to time, and he’s even been out on nature walks, but he’s more of a reluctant participant than an adventurous aficionado.

There is a sporting store that Jeongin knows Minho has bought things from in the mall, so that’s his next, and hopefully last, stop. 

His feet are getting sore. They got up early to do all their Christmas shopping together and try to hit the malls before they got too busy. While they did arrive early, the tactic would have worked better a few weeks ago, rather than this close to the holiday. It feels as if everyone’s put off their gift buying until the last minute. Neither he nor Minho had a choice. Their schedules had been too full.

Or at least, he thought their schedules had been too full. Seems like Minho had found time to do some shopping, as he admitted to already purchasing Jeongin’s present. He’s curious about what the present might be. Minho’s gifts tend to be odd, sometimes useful, but usually flavoured with his quirky sense of humour. If pressed to describe Minho’s gift giving habits, Jeongin would have to say the recipient would gain something they’d never think to buy themselves, but would somehow find strangely useful.

Just the other day, he’d mentioned to Seungmin the difficulty he’d been having sleeping, and how he’d thought about getting a body pillow. Seungmin had laughed and reminded him about the tortoise shell pillow Minho had gifted Jeongin years ago on a lark for his birthday. He’s been sleeping better ever since he pulled it out of the closet.

Though he had celebrated Christmas as a child, it had been a different experience. His family would attend mass, and then congregate to eat a meal together. It hadn’t been about Santa, or gift giving, or flying reindeer. There’d been no snowman in Busan. Snowfall was rare, and even then, it wouldn’t stick around long enough for a snowman. There might be a small snowball fight with his brothers, if the timing was right.

Winter in Seoul is colder, and Jeongin has seen his share of snowmen. He’s even helped build them during recess with the school children in past years. Though, he won’t be doing that this year. Crouching down like that wouldn’t do his back any favours, never mind the strain of pushing the snowball, or lifting it into place. 

But the biggest reason why Christmas in Seoul is different is not the weather, or the snow. The move alone wouldn’t have caused Jeongin to start celebrating a more secular Christmas. Meeting Felix had changed everything.

Most people went home for winter break, but Jeongin’s parents were travelling that year, Jisung had too much coursework to travel back to Malaysia, and Felix couldn’t afford the flight home to Australia. While Jeongin figured he’d still get to attend mass at a local church, he wasn’t upset about having to remain in Seoul. Felix, on the other hand, was inconsolable.

Jisung returned from working on his project a week before Christmas. He’d spoken with some seniors in his department, and while Changbin had never celebrated he was quick to support Chan’s suggestion that they have a party to celebrate and lift Felix’s mood. Chan had even gone so far as to describe the usual Christmas decorations and party foods back in Australia, so Jisung could cheer Felix up.

Jeongin and Jisung had planned the party in secret for their dorm mate. They’d invited everyone they knew who would still be in town, or could easily make it back for an evening. Jisung invited Changbin and Chan. Jeongin had invited Seungmin, knowing his friend from choir lived in town. From there, Seungmin remembered Felix, Hyunjin and Minho working with him in his department’s latest musical production. Jisung and Jeongin were swift to accept Seungmin’s offer to reach out to them, as they’d heard Felix mention their names when talking about his dance classes.

At first, Felix hadn’t wanted to leave their dorm, wallowing in his misery and missing his family. However, Jeongin and Jisung had insisted he come with them for dinner, and Felix had finally relented. Felix had cried when they led him to the table in the restaurant where their friends were already gathered. He’d cried even harder when Chan had greeted him in English. The words were easy to understand for Felix after he had struggled for months, trying to communicate in Korean, but the familiarity of Chan’s accent was like having a piece of home beside him again when he missed it most.

It was a beginning for all of them. It was the first time Jisung and Hyunjin ever argued. Jisung made a comment about how Hyunjin was too pretty to also be smart. He’d meant it as a compliment, like Hyunjin had been blessed to be both, but Hyunjin didn’t take it that way. It was during their dinner that Chan had started the tradition of the youngest being served first at dinner. When they went to the noraebang later, Seungmin sang and Changbin insisted that 3RACHA should start having Seungmin do their track demos for later projects. Hyunjin had insisted that Minho was a good teacher, and Felix proposed he prove this by teaching Jeongin, notoriously clumsy with two left feet. Jeongin isn’t sure he could still do the small piece of choreo now, but he apparently had done well enough to earn a butt pat from Minho.

In that one evening, their lives had intertwined in a way that none of them wanted to untangle. Christmas is now a tradition, one full of good food, gift giving and noraebang. Though Jeongin insisted everyone could still drink if they wanted to, in solidarity this Christmas will be their first dry holiday. He’s not sure how that will translate to the antics they usually get up to while passing around the microphone later in the evening. It’s likely nothing would change; they’re all willing to act like fools for fun anyway.

However, before they can celebrate Christmas, Jeongin needs to finish shopping.

He feels lost from the first moment he walks into the sporting and adventure equipment store. He must also look lost, because a clerk is there to greet him once he’s stepped past the opening display.

“Is there something I could help you with?” Polite, deferential, and a small bow follows those words. The clerk smiles brightly, her bob-length hair swinging from the motion of her quick bow.

Jeongin smiles back. The clerk is wearing scuffed up hiking boots, scratches on the leather at the toe, and grass stains around the ankles. That’s a good indication she knows something more than he does. “I have a friend who has been hiking for years, and I thought there might be something I could get here that would be helpful.”

“Ah, if your friend has been hiking for years, there’s no need for hiking boots, a compass, canteen or knapsack.” She slowly turns around to look at all the items placed in the store. “We have new shirts that are made of wicking fabrics, which block UV rays. Maybe a hat might help as well? A first aid kit could be a good idea. Items in a kit do need to be constantly replaced as the items inside are used or expire.”

He likes the idea of being able to keep Minho safe. Safe from the sun, and protected from any injury that might happen. “The clothing sounds good, and the first aid kit. He actually mentioned needing to replace his backpack, so if you could show me those as well?”

“Of course. Follow me.” She walks him around the store, pointing out any items on discount, and items she’s used herself and had success with. By the end of the trip through the store, Jeongin’s picked out a bucket hat with a mountain and a rabbit embroidered on it, a thin UV protection shirt with long sleeves in green, a knapsack which Jeongin isn’t sure is suitable, but it has a sandy coloured fox stitched on the front pocket. He figures he can tell Minho that the fox is as close as he’ll get to having Jeongin out hiking with him. A well provisioned, but small, first aid kit is the last item to complete the gift.

He’s in line to pay when his alarm goes off, so he pulls out his phone to message Minho, letting him know he’ll be on his way back soon. By the time he’s done paying, Minho has neither responded, nor read the message. Perhaps it was just too loud for him to hear the notification?

Jeongin doesn’t want Minho to worry, so he’s rushing his way through the mall, paper bag holding his purchases tucked against his side. The crowd has thinned a little as it edges towards dinner time, but there’s still enough people that his progress towards their meeting place is impeded. He’s having some trouble squeezing between people. His body’s not the shape he’s used to, and he has curves where he didn’t before that want to delay his progress. 

He’s almost reached his destination. Jeongin can see Minho’s jacket and hat through the crowd. While the cut of the dark jacket isn’t an identifying item, the long white bunny ears on the hat Jeongin gave him for Christmas two years ago is enough to pick him out of the moving tide of shoppers. With that hat, finding Minho is like playing Where’s Wally, only looking for bunny ears instead of a traveller wearing a candy stripe red and white shirt.

Having lifted his hand to wave, Jeongin finds it difficult to catch his balance when a young child breaks free of their mother’s hand and rushes out in front of him. He’s tripping over his own feet trying to avoid knocking over the child. He sees Minho’s head lift when Jeongin cries out in pain as he rolls over his ankle. It’s all he sees of Minho before he twists, landing on his side, the paper bag clutched to his chest.

The parent has reclaimed her child and is apologising profusely when Minho arrives. She was offering to help him up, or to call someone for him, but with Minho there, Jeongin smiles through the pain, and wishes her and her family happy holidays.

“What hurts?” Minho’s scent expands, rolling through the surrounding air like an avalanche. Though there’s still a lot of shoppers in the area, there’s now a distinct parting of the crowd around them.

“Just my right ankle, I think,” Jeongin winces as he tries to move, “though I think I probably bruised my elbow.”

“Can I help you up? Get you to the car?”

Jeongin accepts the outstretched hands Minho extended with his offer, and he’s slowly pulled up. Minho tucks himself up against Jeongin’s right side, placing Jeongin’s arm over his shoulder.

Testing his ankle, Jeongin lowers his right foot to the ground and immediately hisses, his own scent sharp as sourdough yeast. “It really hurts, hyung.”

“We’ll go slow. Can I take the bag for you, so you don’t have to carry it?”

“Carry your own Christmas present? No, thank you.”

“I don’t mind, Iyen-ah.” Minho counters, holding out his right hand to take the bag.

Jeongin tightens his grip around the handles of his paper bag, and moves it further away, out of Minho’s grasp. There are times when his long limbs come in handy. “I said I’ll carry it.” His words are sharper than he’d intended.

Minho’s concerned expression smooths out to the unreadable one he wears around strangers as his hand drops to his side. “Let’s get you back to the car then.”

The walk to the car is miserable. It’s long, and Jeongin can feel his ankle swelling. He doesn’t like the way he snapped at Minho, but also stubbornly doesn’t want to apologise for it. It’s his right to choose if he’ll carry something or not. It doesn’t matter if alphas are generally stronger, or that he’s injured, if he wants to do something, he’s an adult and he’ll do it!

However, the silence on the way back has him biting his lip, waiting for when they’ll be alone in the car again. He already knows how the conversation will go as Minho’s buckling him into the passenger seat. Minho will tell him that this accident is why Jeongin should have accepted his offer to accompany him for the rest of his shopping. That an unmated omega, especially a pregnant one shouldn’t be wandering around on their own. Then Minho will take him to task for insisting on carrying the present and snarking at him about it.

Jeongin sits in his scent as the sharpness turns more sour, with a mouldy top note. He is not looking forward to this conversation. He doesn’t want Minho to be angry with him, though perhaps he deserves it. He’s been belligerent, not accepting help, even when it’s offered more than once. He’s being stubborn, and not for any good reason. Just the usual childish omega responses to any offers of well intentioned alphas.

Minho gets in the car, and his hand automatically moves to start the engine, but the door closing seals them both in with Jeongin’s scent of growing anxiety.

Jeongin hears Minho shift, and a quickly raised glance finds Minho turned to look at him. He doesn’t seem angry. Lowering his eyes, he slowly inhales and finds that Minho doesn’t smell angry, or upset, or even frustrated. All he can sense is worry and concern, but maybe that will pass the moment they get back home. There are some alphas out there who are capable of controlling themselves until they’re in a private space.

He flinches back against the car door as Minho leans over to open the glove compartment. Removing the bottle of Tylenol, Minho offers it to Jeongin, “Tylenol’s safe for you to take,” His voice is calm, quiet, the same tone he uses when trying to coax Dori out from under the bed during a thunderstorm. “You can take one now if you like. There’s a bottle of water in the cup holder.”

Gingerly, Jeongin takes the bottle and opens it. He glances at Minho, not sure what he should expect now. He takes one of the pills and swallows it with some water, setting the bottle back into the compartment and closing it. “Thank you.”

Minho nods, and the way he licks his lips before he starts the car is uncertain. “Usually I’d offer you Advil, but it’s not safe for the pup. I just hope the Tylenol will help.”

The dank and decaying leaf scent that emanates from Minho isn’t a sign of anger, but of regret and fear.

Minho’s hand grips the gearshift, and before he can put the car out of park, Jeongin’s hand covers his. His omega is clamouring at him to do something, anything, to ease Minho’s dismay. “I’m sure it’ll help. Thank you, hyung.”

“Are you scared, Jeongin-ah?”

When Jeongin looks up, Minho is already looking at him. Their eyes meet, and all Jeongin sees is concern and despair. His fingers clench tighter to Minho’s hand, even as he shrinks in on himself, becoming as small as possible within the passenger seat of the vehicle. “Aren’t you angry with me?”

Minho blinks once, and then again more slowly. “No? Why would I be angry?”

Jeongin shifts, straightening in the seat. “I didn’t accept your offers to help, and then I was injured, and I still didn’t let you help me the way you’d wanted.”

“I’m upset that you’re hurt, but I’m not angry at you. You didn’t want my help, and while I might have wanted you to accept, that doesn’t mean you have to,” Minho speaks slowly, as if trying to unwind the puzzling knot of Jeongin’s thoughts.

“But it’s an alpha’s right to protect and care for an omega.”

Minho’s gaze sharpens as his jaw clenches. “It is an alpha’s privilege to protect and care for an omega. It’s not a right. I would never demand you do something just because I asked you to, even if I thought it was for your own good.”

“If I’d let you come with me, I wouldn’t have been injured.” Why is he trying to insist that Minho should treat him like every other alpha he’s ever known? He’s always liked Minho exactly as he is.

“Maybe not, but I would have also taken away your joy at being able to surprise me.” Minho counters as he slips his hand out from under Jeongin’s, allowing him to raise Jeongin’s chin so they’re looking at one another again. “I want to make your life easier. I want to help you. I don’t want to take anything away from you.”

Jeongin closes his eyes and leans his chin into Minho’s hand. Taking a deep breath, he can feel his scent calm. His omega purrs, almost smug, as if gloating that it was right about Minho. “I know it’s cold, hyung, but can we open the windows for a few minutes?”

Minho’s hand lets go of his chin and he turns back to put the car in gear so they can navigate their way home. “Yeah, we can do that.”

The past week has not been an easy one for Minho. He’s had to work, while also helping Jeongin recover from his sprained ankle. 

He’d driven home quickly from the mall that night. Faster than he usually would drive, feeling a necessity to return Jeongin home and have him surrounded in comfort. They’d need to elevate and ice his ankle. Minho also wanted to take a closer look to confirm it was just a sprain, but he knew if he took off Jeongin’s boot in the mall or the car, that the swelling might not let him put the boot back on, and while the boot was made more for fashion than function, as a lot of clothing Jeongin chose was, some support was better than none.

Jeongin was quiet on the drive home, huddled in his jacket, hands pulled into his sleeves with his fingers clenching the hem shut. The windows had been open for five minutes, letting the sour stench of Jeongin’s distress out of the car. Minho usually would have helped chase it away by freeing his own scent to take precedence, but he remained confused by Jeongin’s earlier fear.

This wasn’t the first time Jeongin had been injured around Minho. The man was lanky and clumsy. Especially when they were first introduced. Jeongin had just had his last growth spurt, leaving him taller than Minho, if just by a few centimetres, but his limbs were longer, and as endearing as Minho might find it, Jeongin has yet to shed his newborn deer trying to walk for the first time aesthetic. Jeongin has split things, dropped them, bruised his knees and scraped his palms by falling, just tripping over his own feet. If someone told Minho that Jeongin had managed to break his arm in his sleep, he wouldn’t be surprised.

So, it wasn’t the injury that had made things weird, even if Jeongin hadn’t shrugged it away as he has done with most of these sorts of situations in the past. Just a sigh at his own ineptitude, or lack of grace, followed by making the best of the consequences. 

Maybe it was the pain that had caused this particular reaction? Jeongin wasn’t even smiling now. Granted, he was in pain, and he wasn’t required to smile, but he usually did. It feels odd, anytime Minho sees him without a smile upon his lips. For the first few months in which they knew each other, Minho suspected that Jeongin didn’t know how to do anything but smile. When he’d met Jeongin, the comparison to Yongbok’s general bright happiness had been easy to make. With time, Minho had figured out that while Yongbok smiled, it was about his determination to be happy. That a happy perspective and attitude ensured happiness. Where Jeongin’s smile seemed more like a challenge to the world, speaking of a desire to be perceived as happy and friendly; a refusal to be seen as anything else.

The idea that Jeongin was scared of him, or thought Minho was angry with him was distressing. When Jeongin had mentioned the rights of an alpha, and the expectation of being berated for choosing to do something other than what an alpha wanted, Minho had been unsure of how to react. That’s certainly nothing Jeongin would have ever learnt within their group of friends. Felix had Chan so tightly wrapped around his fingers that Chan never ordered him to do anything. Jisung was constantly fighting with Hyunjin, and aside from refusing to pick up his calls or answer his texts until he’d calmed down, Hyunjin didn’t try to impose any restrictions or requirements on him. Though, Minho would be the first to admit that whatever relationship Hyunjin and Jisung have is not typical. Anytime they’ve seen Changbin with a date, he’s been kind, courteous, and well mannered. None of his relationships seem to last long enough to see him argue or fight, but Minho suspects that even then, Changbin would be gracious with a partner’s faults, just as he is with those of his friends.

He can’t think of a time in which Jeongin has been scared of him before. Or scared of any of them. But he was scared earlier. From the way he withdrew into himself, to his spoiled scent, Jeongin had displayed his fear in ways that had shocked Minho, and caused his alpha to tuck tail and whimper. Minho wants Jeongin to see his strength and know he can depend on it. He wants to support and protect Jeongin, to empower his ideas and champion his goals. He doesn’t want Jeongin to blindly agree to his wishes, or acquiesce to his every demand.

If Minho’s angry about anything, it’s the idea that Jeongin’s reaction on that day was a result of the partners he’s had in the past. That Jeongin may have been in situations where his rights had been overlooked or overwritten, where his needs had not been met or trampled, and his wants had been left unsatisfied. It infuriates Minho that someone, likely multiple partners, have at some point told Jeongin that their opinion, advice or decision mattered more than his own. That Jeongin has heard it enough to come to expect that behaviour from a partner. Even worse, that Jeongin struggles to accept his own agency should be primary.

The urge to find Daehyun and call him out is one Minho’s alpha fully endorses. But it wouldn’t help Jeongin, and Minho is reluctant to do anything about it just to soothe his own pride. Minho could go back through Jeongin’s dating history and give all of them a bloody nose, but doing so wouldn’t have Jeongin suddenly believing in his right to choose, or feeling capable of acting contrary to his partner’s wishes without fearing their response.

How much had Jeongin endured if it had taken the threat of being bred like an animal to cause him to leave Daehyun? Minho suspects he doesn’t want to know the answer, for it would only be more gasoline thrown on a furious fire.

While in the past Minho’s own partners may have seen his lack of dominance outside the bedroom as a fault, he’d never wanted a relationship where he wasn’t an equal partner. He wanted a partner who would choose to be with him, and how could they possibly do that if they never felt that any choice they made mattered? If he erred on the side of caution, letting his romantic partners voice their opinions first, and being willing to compromise to their benefit more often than his own, he didn’t see it as a lack of strength.

There was only five months left, but Minho was determined that in this time, he would do what he could to prove to Jeongin that his choices mattered, that his decisions could be respected, and that he was deserving  of care and protection because of who he was as a strong individual with opinions and desires of his own, not in spite of them.

He was careful in his care of Jeongin when they returned from shopping. As much as he wanted to lift Jeongin from the car and carry him back up to his apartment, he didn’t. He offered Jeongin a choice to walk, or be carried. He asked Jeongin if he wanted Minho to see to his injuries, make him dinner, and keep him company. He let Jeongin choose whose apartment they spent the evening in, even if it meant Minho had to dip out to retrieve some first aid equipment and feed his feline brethren.

He hadn’t been surprised by Jeongin’s lack of tensor bandages. As a teacher, Jeongin didn’t put the same stress upon his body as Minho did daily. When he’d looked at Jeongin’s medicine cabinet, he had found a box of band-aids, and topical cream. There was also a bottle of Tylenol, rubbing alcohol and some ginger chews. All of his face creams, lotions and serums took up the majority of the space.

Minho hadn’t even been able to find an ice pack in Jeongin’s freezer. He’d left Jeongin, changed into comfortable clothes, sitting on his couch with his foot propped by a pillow on the coffee table, and a bag of frozen mixed vegetables laying across his ankle. He had been wondering where his first anniversary dance studio hoodie had disappeared to.

With a couple of reusable ice packs and a tensor bandage, Minho left his apartment again, having bid Soonie, Doongie and Dori good night. The three cats barely seemed to notice his departure as they chewed their way through their bowls of kibble.

Upon his return to Jeongin’s apartment, he replaced the mixed vegetables with an ice pack. He put the veggies and the second ice pack in the freezer. While he was in the kitchen, he thought about making dinner, but he wanted to be available if Jeongin needed him.

After ten minutes of icing, he put the ice pack in the freezer, inspected Jeongin’s ankle, and then carefully wrapped it with the tensor bandage.

Pulling out his phone, he had sat back down on the couch beside Jeongin so they could order in food. They’d watch a movie, and he’d tuck Jeongin into bed later, after icing his ankle again and taking more Tylenol.

They hadn’t talked much about anything that evening, except what to get for dinner, what to watch, and if there was anything Jeongin needed. Though curious about Jeongin’s reaction at the mall, Minho didn’t want to demand answers when Jeongin was still in pain and recovering. It was something they’d have to discuss at a later time. He’d never had Jeongin wary of voicing his opinion with him in the past, or making decisions that he suspected or even knew Minho wouldn’t agree with. It didn’t happen often, but when it did, Minho voiced his objection, Jeongin changed his mind or did it anyway, and either way, Minho would still stand by him. He didn’t feel like Jeongin had cause or reason to be frightened of Minho’s response. It made him wonder what had changed between them.

By the end of the weekend, Jeongin was able to hobble around his apartment. He could get to and from the various rooms of his apartment, leaning against hallways or furniture. Minho stocked Jeongin’s fridge with food he could easily reheat for meals. 

With the winter break, Jeongin wasn’t working, but Minho did need to go into the studio. He made sure he wrapped Jeongin’s ankle in the morning before he left, and got him comfortable on the couch. He supplied Jeongin with Tylenol, a glass of water and some breakfast. He also reminded Jeongin to call him if he needed anything, before reluctantly leaving and heading off to work.

During the week, Minho counted himself lucky that all the routines he needed to teach were choreography he’d made far enough in the past to have them be muscle memory now. He didn’t need to worry about being distracted, constantly looking at his phone which he left face up anytime it chimed to see if it was Jeongin trying to reach him. Nor did he need to be concerned that his distraction would cause him harm as his lack of focus had him landing a jump poorly, or moving in ways his body would protest.

By the time the next weekend arrives, the swelling of Jeongin’s ankle has subsided. Diligent elevation, use of ice and compression, and the rest has helped him heal. He’ll still need the compression bandage, and he shouldn’t be on his feet for too long, but the Christmas gathering at Chan and Yongbok’s is comfortable and casual.

Minho already contacted everyone else, and they agreed to let Jeongin have the recliner in the living room so he can sit on his own. While that would be Jeongin’s preference anyway, seeing as how he insists he doesn’t care for physical affection from his friends, having his own space will also mean no one accidentally jostles his leg as they’re moving around.

He knows as he’s helping Jeongin out to the car to head over for the party that Hyunjin, if no one else, is likely to dote on Jeongin the entire night. They all have a soft spot for Jeongin, but Hyunjin takes it to extremes at times, attempting to make Jeongin flustered, joyful at any blush or action of squirming away. Minho will watch carefully, and if he thinks Jeongin’s being overwhelmed, he’ll find a way to tell Hyunjin to quit smothering Jeongin with love. It’s not like Jeongin can move about to easily escape.

When Chan opens the door, the noise which escapes the house indicates they’re the last to arrive. Minho can hear Hyunjin and Changbin’s laughter which overlays Jisung’s whine, likely because he’s being teased. Seungmin’s already got the noraebang going, singing along to some English song which typically only plays around this time of year.

“Felix is in the kitchen, just getting the next round of snacks out of the oven,'“ Chan informs them as they move into the hallway and he shuts the door behind them. “We made sure everything is safe to eat, so you don’t have to worry about anything, Jeongin-ah. Can I take that box from you, Minho-yah? If there isn’t room in the closet for your jackets, just throw them on the bed in the spare room.”

Minho laughs as he hands over their box of gifts. “We know where everything is hyung. I’ll help Iyen-ah get settled.”

Given how clumsy Jeongin is typically, and the sprained ankle, as well as the changing centre of balance, Minho kneels down to remove Jeongin’s boots and slides his feet into the house slippers that had been left out for them. He takes their jackets to hang up, and sends Jeongin down the hallway to join their boisterous friends.

Minho finds Jeongin already sitting in the recliner when he walks into the room. Hyunjin is hovering over him, tucking a blanket over his lap, and asking him if he wants anything to eat or drink. When he looks around the room and Jeongin meets his eyes with a smile, Minho knows that while Hyunjin might be fussing over him, at least for the time being, it’s welcome and bearable.

Chan’s over by the corner of the room, rearranging the presents under the tree so everything fits. The tree looks scraggly, probably the most ugly thing Minho’s ever seen, garnished and desecrated with copious amounts of decorations in clashing and garish colours. It is festive. He’ll allow it that much. Minho knows how much fun Chan and Yongbok likely had going to find the tree, and then setting it up in their apartment, sipping hot chocolate while they strung the lights and added all the ornaments.

It was something they all used to do together once their friend group solidified while they were still in university. Minho misses the ornaments the used to make to put on the tree. Little origami stars, trees, and deer. They’d string popcorn on thread because they couldn’t afford ribbons or garland. While the rest of the ornaments could be placed on the tree by anyone, Chan always insisted it be Jeongin who placed the angel on the top of the tree.

Looking up from where Chan is still rummaging around with the presents, it seems that tradition hasn’t changed. The top of the tree is the only bare limb left available, and the angel Yongbok’s eomma had sent him as a present the first year he’d been away from home over the holidays sat on the top of the side table, waiting to be placed on the tree.

He won’t remind Chan of it now. Jeongin’s settled comfortably in his chair. Hyunjin’s even moved a foot stool so Jeongin could elevate his foot. The angel can wait until they’re done eating and ready to open presents.

Gesturing towards the kitchen, Minho mouths the words, ‘I’m going to help Yongbok-ah.’ He waits for Jeongin’s nod before he heads out of the living room.

Yongbok is pulling cut up vegetables and fruits from the fridge when Minho turns the corner, which reminds him that one of the gifts in the box should likely be chilled. 

“How long until we’re opening presents?”

Yongbok looks frazzled as he steps away from the fridge, hands full of produce and the impression only deepens when the timer on the stove goes off. Minho laughs as he hears a deep and gravely voice cursing.

“I’ll get it,” Minho says as he steps towards the stove, cancels the timer and slides his hands into the kitchen mitts. “Does it need to be turned or is it done?”

A sigh accompanies the clatter of containers being set on the counter. “Can you stick a toothpick in one of the mini quiche and check if they’re done?”

Ah, if only he’d opened the oven before he asked the question, he would have known what to do. He pulls the trays out, the edges of the pastry are nice and golden, and he’s not surprised to find the egg mixture has cooked through, leaving no residue on the toothpick. “Done. Anything else need to go in here?”

“Not right now.” Yongbok raises his wrist to his forehead, pushing away strands of hair that have fallen forward while he’s been leaning over the counter. The tray before him is arranged colourfully. In the middle, green vegetables like cucumber, green peppers, broccoli and snap peas have been arranged in a Christmas tree shape. At the edge of the branches, small cherry tomatoes, radishes and bits of coloured peppers take the place of ornaments. To the side, are a bunch of cauliflower snowmen with carefully cut carrot noses, wearing the caps of button mushrooms for hats. “Oh, you asked about when we’ll open presents? Probably in an hour or so.”

An hour out in a room will likely have Jisung’s present not quite as chilled as it should be. “Do you have a tray for the quiche? I can move them over and then take it out to the other room.” He can also grab Jisung’s present on his way back to put it in the fridge.

“Right over there,” Yongbok says as he gestures to the seasonal tray with cartoonish reindeer frolicking painted on it.

Minho sets all the pastries on the tray and delivers it to the other room, letting Jeongin have first dibs before setting it on the table.

Doing a quick tour of the room, he greeted his friends, stopping at the tree last to catch up with Chan and retrieve Jisung’s present which he nonchalantly walked back into the kitchen, hoping no one would notice. Though he did get an odd look from Yongbok as he put the wrapped gift in the fridge, there were no questions asked. You don’t ask about gifts at Christmas; it’s bad form.

When Yongbok leaves the kitchen with the veggie tray, Minho picks up the fruit tray and joins him. The fruit tray isn’t as holiday themed as the veggie tray. Instead, the different fruits form colourful swirls out to the edge of the circular dish, surrounding the dips placed in the middle: vanilla yoghurt and chocolate.

Minho doesn’t ask Jeongin what he might like to eat. He chooses fruits and vegetables he knows Jeongin enjoys, adds some cheese and crackers, places a few of the mini quiche on the plate and pulls over a chair to sit next to him. The plate is set on the arm of the recliner between them.

Jeongin looks up at him with wide eyes. “Hyung, I can’t eat all that.”

“It’s okay, baby boy,” Minho replies, the fondness in his tone hopefully hidden by the cacophony of Jisung and Yongbok’s excitement over the game of Mario Kart they started playing. “I’ll eat whatever you can’t finish.”

Minho settles back, watching his friends interact. It’s been a while since they were all last together. Sure, they’d gathered for Seungmin’s movie, and to see 3RACHA perform, but that had been out in public with some of them off doing things. This was more like their old university days. They were just casually sitting around, having fun, catching up, and teasing one another. 

As they neared the hour and the plate of food was empty, Minho leaned closer to Jeongin. “We’re probably going to do gifts soon. Did you need the toilet? I’m going to grab Jisung’s present out of the fridge. I can get you another drink if you need anything.”

“I should probably get up, even if just to move a bit,” Jeongin admits.

Minho turns his head to hide his smirk, but the playful slap against his arm lets him know Jeongin saw it anyway. He laughs, standing to offer Jeongin some help getting up from the chair. Minho has noticed how it can be a struggle for him to rise from comfortable low seats, as Jeongin holds his hands to the small of his back, trying to counterweight the pup, and likely ease the ache of his back muscles.

He has a quiet word with Chan when he places Jisung’s present back under the tree. Jeongin’s not been sleeping well, between the pup and his sprained ankle. Minho doesn’t think Jeongin will want to leave early, but Chan agrees that getting the presents out of the way before their celebratory dinner of fried chicken arrives would be for the best.

Chan’s quick to catch Jeongin on his way back into the room so he can place the angel at the top of the tree. Minho supports Jeongin, an arm around his waist as he climbs the foot stool so he can reach the top branch and secure the angel.

While Minho gets Jeongin settled back into the recliner, his feet elevated and a blanket across his lap, the lights of the tree have been turned on, and the angel’s halo shines. Chan’s doling out the presents, delivering them to everyone in stacks. As per tradition, they’ll open their presents in age order, with Jeongin starting. This works rather well, given Jeongin could be rather impatient, and it is fun to watch Hyunjin suffer while he has to wait.

They all watch as Jeongin works through opening his gifts. A pair of shoes from Seungmin that he’d been wanting. From Yongbok, an Alexander McQueen leather backpack, which Jeongin tried to say is too much, but Yongbok laughs and tells him he’d traded with a friend for it, so he doesn’t have to worry. Jisung’s gift is a spa day, where they can relax and have fun. A flower painting with soft pastel colours from Hyunjin, which came with a note stating it should fit well on the wall above Jeongin’s piano. Changbin and Chan had gone in together and the card they gave Jeongin holds licences for music editing software, with a promise of lessons on how to use the programs.

Which means Minho’s gift will be the last one Jeongin opens. Minho sits there, hardly able to look at Jeongin as he reaches for the box. Minho doesn’t know if he had the right to give anyone something like this. It holds very little meaning to him, just beads on a necklace, but it would mean more than that to Jeongin, and to some, an alpha giving an omega jewellery of any kind could be a significant courting gift, but this isn’t really jewellery, is it?

He has to sit on his hands to prevent himself from cracking his knuckles as he waits for Jeongin to unwrap the small box and open it. Minho can see the creep of a blush along Jeongin’s cheekbones as he takes in the velvet of the jewellery box. He bites his lip as Jeongin blinks slowly once the box is opened. Unshed tears cling to Jeongin’s waterline as his long, slim fingers run over the silver cross, the small matte green beads, and the larger porcelain emerald and white spiral beads on a silver chain.

Picking up the centrepiece, Jeongin lifts it to take a closer look. “Saint Nicholas?”

“The patron saint of children,” Minho answers, finding his voice rough. He clears his throat before he continues, “I don’t know how much longer you’ll be able to wear your rosary ring, and I hoped this might help.”

Jeongin sniffs, and uses the cuff of his shirt to wipe at his eyes. “Thanks hyung.”

“Damn, no wonder you’re his favourite, Minho-yah.” Chan says, laughing, “How can any of the rest of us compete?”

“It’s not a competition!” Hyunjin insists.

Yongbok smiles at Jeongin fondly. “Of course not. Jeongin-ah loves all of his hyungs, don’t you?”

“Hyung,” Jeongin whines, trying to tuck himself in behind Minho.

They all laugh, and move on as Seungmin begins opening his gifts. 

Minho doesn’t pay much attention to the others as everyone reveals the presents they received. The clutter of paper, ribbons and discarded gift bags landing on the middle of the living room floor creates a mess to be cleaned up later. 

Instead, he finds himself distracted, watching as Jeongin works to get the rosary ring free from his finger, turning the band to and fro over the long length and prying it over the first joint. From there, the ring slides smoothly from the rest of his finger, and Jeongin carefully places it in the jewellery box, and removes the necklace. There’s a delicate shift in Jeongin’s scent as the ring is surrendered and the necklace is placed about his neck. If he were to sit closer, perhaps he’d be better able to quantify its exact nature, but it tastes both of reticence and sorrow, hope and happiness. As if while unhappy to set aside something he values, he welcomes the need to change.

He’d been hesitant to buy a rosary as a present. He knows how devoted Jeongin is to his faith. It’s a faith that Minho respects, but does not share. He’d done a lot of research. He’d consulted with Felix about it. Minho had worked with a local artisan to have it specially made. From the way Jeongin’s fingers keep touching the cross, the centrepiece, and the beads, Minho thinks he’s done well.

It’s as Changbin’s opening the last of his gifts that Minho’s attention is diverted.

“Yah. What is this Minho-hyung?”

Minho looks over at Changbin, finding him looking back, his gaze intent, as his hands hover over the open box on his lap. "If you don’t want it, I’ll give you the receipt.”

“I didn’t say I don’t like it, but I’m noticing a trend.” Changbin says slyly, his eyes darting over to Jeongin. “Looks like you both went in together on everyone’s gifts this year.”

“It was easier, what with my ankle and all,” chirps Jeongin, whose blush grows deeper as Minho looks at him and slowly blinks.

“Wait, I thought you twisted your ankle when you were done shopping?” Jisung isn’t trying to cause problems; he’s as confused as he sounds.

Minho closes his eyes and sighs. Jisung’s confusion is valid. As he thinks back, the only shared gift giving he can recall comes from Chan and Yongbok. He then takes a breath and looks at all his friends. “Is anyone unhappy with their gifts?” While he’s not surprised to find there’s a growling undertone to his words, some of them do look shocked or surprised. Changbin looks smug, while Yongbok appears pleased and Chan is eying Minho and Jeongin curiously. No one is saying anything. “Good. That makes it my turn, right?”

With most of the top note scents in the room being subdued, and no further comments, Minho shares a rueful smile with his friends before he proceeds to open his presents. From Yongbok, he receives an Asian fusion cookbook that he’d mentioned in idle conversation when they’d last met up. Hyunjin has rendered a painting of Soonie, Doongie and Dori, lazing about the different tiers of a cat tree. A year subscription to an Anime streaming service is an unsurprising gift from Jisung. Chan’s present consists of various spices from around the world for Minho to add to his collection. Changbin provides a voucher for a campsite in the mountains, while Seungmin gift is a booklet of tickets he can use for sauna or massage services.

When he reaches for the holiday themed paper bag holding his gift from Jeongin, there’s a scent of over proofed bread. Is Jeongin concerned about whether Minho will like his present? At this point, Jeongin should know that Minho values a gift more for the thought involved than its value. Given how well they know each other, Minho suspects that unless Jeongin had spent no time at all thinking about what to give him, he’ll be pleased with the contents.

The first item he removes from the bag is wrapped in paper, and rectangular. He can tell without opening it, that it’s a book, though he doesn’t know which. He looks over at Jeongin when he discovers it’s the newest book by Keigo Higashino. “I’ve not read this one yet,” he comments. 

The next item rattles when he pulls it from the bag. Or rather, it seems to have something inside it which rattles? Removing the wrapping paper, Minho finds a knapsack made of waterproofed canvas, bright orange, with reflective seam bindings. There’s a sandy coloured fox logo stitched on the flap of the knapsack. His eyes narrow as he peers over at Jeongin, his lips twitch with the effort not to smile. “How did you know I needed a new knapsack, Iyen-ah?”

To his delight, Jeongin squirms in the recliner, his hand clenching the beads of his rosary. “You mentioned you broke the strap on your knapsack the last time you went hiking before winter started.”

“Hmm.”

Jeongin’s voice is meek, “You should open it.”

Arching a brow, Minho tilts his head as he regards Jeongin, a smirk forming on his lips as Jeongin begins to blush. He has some mercy, given they have an audience, and opens the knapsack as he was bid. Inside is a wide brimmed bucket hat, mint green, stitched with the outline of a mountain and rabbit. There’s also a long sleeve thin cotton shirt to match, which the tags indicate provides UV protection. Neither of which explain the rattle he heard earlier, so he checks the bottom of the knapsack and finds a travel sized waterproof first aid kit.

“We’ll have to get you a matching shirt and hat.”

“Hyung, I’m not going hiking with you.” Jeongin’s nose crinkles in distaste. “There’s a fox on the knapsack. I can just be there in spirit with you.”

Minho laughs and looks at the bounty around him and all of his friends. “Thank you.”

He had planned on looking at Chan while he opened his presents, but Jeongin leans closer to him and speaks quietly, “I have the receipts, if there’s anything you want to return or exchange.”

The scent of over-proofed bread is stronger, now that Jeongin is closer. Jeongin must be anxious about the gift. Minho shakes his head and places his hand over Jeongin’s knee. “You did great, baby boy. I’ll use my gifts well. Hyung promises.”

Jeongin rolls his eyes. “So annoying when you speak of yourself that way.”

Minho grins, lifting his upper lip obnoxiously to reveal his bunny teeth, and is rewarded when Jeongin settles back into the chair and nudges him away.

When he looks over, Chan has finished opening all his gifts, and is thanking them all, while also looking pensively between Minho and Jeongin. He’s seen that pensive look from others in the past. It usually involves a conversation with a parent about returning a date home by curfew. A shovel talk doesn’t have the same power over him now as it might have while he was still in school, though it is disconcerting to think that Chan might feel the need to give him one.

For the remainder of the evening, the conversation flows freely. There’s some songs sung, and games played. The fried chicken arrives, and they demolish it. 

Jeongin’s resting on the chair, his large hands covering his extended belly, full of food and contentment. His scent has settled into sweet bread with a hint of apricot jam, though there’s undertones of chocolate and the salty ocean breeze.

Even from across the room, catching up with Yongbok and Jisung, Minho’s paying attention as Jeongin converses with Hyunjin. At the first sight of yawning, Minho makes his apologies and is quick to bundle Jeongin back into his winter boots and jacket so they can head home, his new knapsack full of their presents.

“See, Iyen-ah?” Minho slides his arm around Jeongin’s waist as they make their way through the parking lot. It could be icy, and Jeongin’s ankle is still sore. “The knapsack is already making itself useful. What wonderful gifts my dongsaeng has given me.”

In a rare show of affection, Jeongin leans forward to ever so briefly presses his lips to Minho’s cheek as he’s being buckled into the passenger seat. “Thank you, hyung, for the rosary. I hadn’t even thought of how tight my ring had gotten. It’s perfect.”

If Minho’s hat covered ears are red the entire ride home, and he’s fighting against the besotted smile as he delivers Jeongin safely to his apartment, no one else needs to know. Even if the scent of hibiscus which fills the elevator on their way up tells its own tale.