Chapter Text
When Soonyoung and the rest of their hunting group got back to the pack territory, none of them was surprised to see a commotion happening in the fields. Making them stop for a while to witness the cause of it because most of them are too nosy to simply pass by.
Soonyoung doesn't really care for it. He's too tired from their day and he feels too filthy, especially with the blood drying on his skin. He would rather go on his merry way and get back to his little home as fast as he can. He's sure he'd hear whatever about it anyway, nothing is ever a secret in their pack. And also because he has friends that are just always updated and always know about everything.
“Hyung, give me those. I’ll go first and drop them on my way” He called to Seungcheol, pointing at the large haul he's holding that's supposed to go to the hunting hall for storage and inventory where it would be assessed for when, where, and how their catches would be distributed in the pack.
“Nah, give me yours and go straight to Jeonghan” the other alpha said, eyes focused at the long cut of wound running from his neck and ending just above his collarbone. Narrowly missing his scent glands. It's not deep, Soonyoung is sure. The pain is barely there so he's pretty sure that it's not anything serious. If anything, Soonyoung is more annoyed with the dried blood it had left on his skin. Besides, it's not a big deal. Getting hurt is part of the hunting. It's not the first time it happened and wouldn't be the last. For the most part, it really is just a miscalculation of some sorts.
“I’ll just clean it at home” He shrugged. Not really wanting to bother the omega mentioned. The sun is about to set and he's sure Jeonghan will pretty much be done for the day. He wouldn't like to have him check on him last minute just for a simple scratch.
“Soonyoung-ah, I really don't want an angry omega screaming at me for letting you get hurt. So please for the love of God, let Hannie clean that, yeah?” Soonyoung wants to roll his eyes at Seungcheol. For an alpha, he quite likes to be dramatic. And Soonyoung would argue more but he knew better. Seungcheol might be his friend, but he's still the son of the pack Alpha. Someone who would continue to fill that role in the future. So with a heavy sigh, he finally nodded.
“Jeonghan hyung doesn't even like to scream” He muttered, reluctantly handing Seungcheol his own catches of the day.
“Sure, let's just say he's the omega I was talking about” Seungcheol grumbled as he heaved the additional weight on his shoulder.
“Who else would it be?”
“Well—” Seungcheol wasn't able to continue whatever he was gonna say when most of the people around them, both from their hunting group and those who were already circling the commotion, started hollering teasing remarks and shouting encouragement at the same time.
Making them both look at the scene that they weren't paying attention to.
And Soonyoung supposed he should've continued oblivious to it. But that's too much to ask, he guessed, especially when luck and fate never seemed to be on his side.
Because right in the middle, the subject of the pack’s attention and noisy gathering, is Lee Jihoon.
How would even Soonyoung start to describe him?
The most basic and easiest way would be that he's beautiful. It was a fact known to them all. He has a soft androgynous features that makes him look a little bit ethereal. Sometimes, he reminds Soonyoung of a fairy. Dangerously mesmerizing and timelessly stunning. He has pale white skin that rivals even the folktale of snow white. It glows beautifully too, glass skinned and parts of him gets pinkishly rosy. Like his squishy cheeks, his hands, his neck and just… his skin. Like well maintained rose petals. What he lacks in height, he makes up for his body build. Whilst it's not common for omegas to have muscles, it quite suits Jihoon. A juxtaposition of soft and strong. Soonyoung sometimes feels like the word beautiful can never justify Lee Jihoon alone.
To Soonyoung, Jihoon is an omega of paradoxes. He has soft features but his personality is anything but that. Don't get him wrong, Jihoon has every quality of an Omega. He's pretty inside and out, nurturing with his gentle hands and light touches, a calm soul with a quiet kind of caring. Attentive and always ready to lend a hand or whatever help he can give. A steady presence that would never fail to make you feel safe. But he also has sharp eyes that can see everything and anything all at once. His words can be cutting when needed to, not afraid to speak his mind and never one to sugarcoat what needs to be said. He stands his ground and never let his subgender to be a hindrance of what he can and what he wants to do.
It's the reason why he's one of the most sought after omega in the pack. Actually, thinking about it now, since Jeonghan has already been claimed by Seungcheol to be his future mate and the future Luna of the pack, Jihoon is definitely now the omega who's everyone vying for. He's just amazing in every sense of the word. The perfect omega, what they call him. The omega of everyone's dream. Everyone wants him.
(Even him)
So it was not a surprise to see him standing there in the middle with a bunch of spectators. With him, was another alpha with a hand stretched out towards him. Carrying what Soonyoung is sure of is another courting gift. Presenting it to Jihoon and the rest of the audience with a smug smile. It's a recurring sight. Especially now that spring is coming and with it is the beginning of the courting season.
It's not a requirement to wait for courting season to actually start courting someone you like. They do it anytime of the year, really. Celebrating and participating in the courting season is just for tradition, for sentimental purposes and for keeping up with the old times.
And whilst there are brave souls who would step up and find the courage to court someone out of it, those are usually talked between the two wolves in courting and usually with mutual feelings in between them. Most wait for the courting season to express their interest to another as some kind of reason to actually do it, a push maybe. Because it's acceptable for anyone to court another wolf as long as they aren't mated yet. And rejection is normal too, like the courting season is a safety blanket that every rejection hurts less than when you outrightly seek your interest outside of it.
Jihoon though, sought after as he is, is also popular for rejecting suitors left and right. None ever knew the reason why, the omega never one to divulge. Not only that, he's known to have a tongue too, with how caring he is towards his friends, his words can be unkind, sometimes even downright cruel. He's not always brutal but it comes to a point of unwilling harshness. Especially when some alphas don't know when to back off. In normal days, no one would be brave enough to even announce their intention to him. There might be some of them, those who don't seem perturbed by Jihoon's brash dismissal, but it's rare and few in between. But once the ice melts and winter makes way for spring, a day doesn't go by without Jihoon being presented with something. Clothes, threads, jewelries, meats and all kinds of courting gifts. Some would be brave enough to hand it to him, some would just leave it to his doorsteps. Whenever the courting season comes, Jihoon is never empty handed. But once the season ends, his hand is always empty of a ring and his neck is void of mark.
Once upon a time, this sight used to hurt Soonyoung. In a lot of different ways. Back when he was young and temperamental, not used to sharing his body with a wolf that he doesn't know how to control. Hell, he can barely agree with it. But now there's only a phantom of it that he can barely feel, something easy to ignore. Something easy to push at the back of his mind.
He didn't even notice that he's staring as hard as everyone else until Jihoon's eyes landed on him. He doesn't know how and why it would happen but it was enough for Soonyoung to avert his eyes. Unused to the sudden eye contact, a blush surely creeping its way on his cheeks. He's aware that getting caught staring isn't a big deal. Not when everyone's eyes are already hovering over them and their little show. But Soonyoung has never been good at staring Jihoon for so long, always so afraid of how it means different to him than to anyone else in the audience.
“Ah hyung, im gonna go”
“But what if Jihoon needs a backup?” Seungcheol asked and it made Soonyoung snort.
“Hyung, if anyone needs a backup, it would be the alpha he's about to go off on right now” He said, shaking his head at how true his statement was.
He dared to look one more time, barely hiding his flinch when Jihoon was still staring at them. Ignoring the alpha in front of him and everyone else besides him. Soonyoung garnered a small smile on his lips and gave a small wave. And then turning around with a hush goodbye before Jihoon or Seungcheol can even think of a reply.
Just because Soonyoung is stubborn, an alpha trait he seemed to retain, he ended up just going home. He didn't promise to go anyways, he just agreed to it as an option. But the medical hall is further than his own home and his bath called him more. It'll heal anyway, regardless of who would treat it. So he cleaned himself, removed all the dirt from hunting both on his feet and on his wolf form. Scrubbing his skin free of soil and blood. Coming out of the shower, feeling refreshed and lighter than he was. Hungrier too. Since he's not really good at making his own dinner, he usually goes to the community kitchen to eat just as most of his friends do. Sometimes some of them would just cook for their group of friends, mostly Mingyu and Seokmin, sometimes Jisoo or Jun, but tonight he didn't receive any invites so he was sure that they'd end up in the community kitchen together.
And just like he predicted, most of his friends are already on a long table being the loudest. Not minding one bit as they talk over each other, laughter ringing through the night, teasing and just having fun as they pass around food between them. Soonyoung saw an empty spot besides Wonwoo and immediately beelined for it. Stealing a bite from his spoon before Wonwoo can even react.
“We already saved you food” Mingyu whined, pouting when all Wonwoo, his omega, did is to load another mouthful of food for Soonyoung to eat. But Soonyoung knows he isn't really upset about it. Not when all of them are used to eating off each other's foods since they're just pups.
“Thanks” Is all he said, taking the plate they pushed towards him. Devouring it immediately as if he's been starved for days rather than hours.
“Ah, Soonyoungie, your neck” Jeonghan tsk’ed, frowning at his neck the way Seungcheol did earlier.
“I told him to go straight to you” Seungcheol immediately defended, both hands coming up as a sign of surrender.
“It’s okay, just a scratch” He shrugged and turned back to his food.
Sue him for being hungry but Soonyoung was too focused on his food that he didn't even notice Jihoon standing up from where he was nestled between Seokmin and Jun. Only being aware of his presence on his side when his gentle fingers pressed on Soonyoung’s skin. His hand softly gripping his chin to turn his head on the side, probably to take a better look at the wound.
“It's long… and deep. Did you clean it?” Jihoon asked, face dangerously close to Soonyoung's scent gland. Thank heavens Soonyoung wears scent blockers like a second skin. If he weren't, he was so sure his scent would’ve given away how his heart fluttered with Jihoon's simple attention. A platonic kind of worry that his wolf doesn't seem to understand wouldn't go beyond more than that.
“Sure” He answered, if cleaning means running it with water and soap. Then yeah, he cleaned it.
Soonyoung didn't even know he tensed until Jihoon finally let go and his body automatically relaxed. He turned to look at the omega beside him and was surprised to find him opening a small container of what seemed to be a medical balm or an ointment.
“Look at your side” Jihoon softly but firmly, a focused expression on his face that Soonyoung can't help but be fond of.
“Ahh that's not necessary—” Jihoon suddenly turned his eyes to glare at him, like an angry kitten. “—but sure, I’ll put it on since you already brought it.” he stammered.
He heard some of his friends snickered at the easy way he backpedaled. But he didn't pay attention, still facing Jihoon who just rolled his eyes at him.
“Kwon, look on your side”
“I- I can do that”
But his protest went to deaf ears when all Jihoon did was to take the balm on his own fingers and gently cupped Soonyoung’s chin with his other hand to maneuver it to the side like he did the first time. All Soonyoung could do was pray that he's not blushing red when he all but felt Jihoon softly putting the balm on his wound.
He doesn't even know why Jihoon brought a medical balm anyway. He's pretty sure that they were pretty far off from them for Jihoon to even see the wound earlier. But he stayed still, letting Jihoon do what he wanted anyways. Because even if they're not the closest in their group of friends and that he has long accepted that they can never be more than friends, Soonyoung’s wolf is still whipped as fuck for the omega.
(As he is)
“There you go” Jihoon huffs once he’s done. Looking proud at what he did.
“Thank you, Ji”
“What happened to that anyways?” Jihoon asked, pushing the now closed tub of balm towards him to keep.
“Yeah, Soons, what happened to that?” Seungcheol teased, fully knowing how Soonyoung got injured.
“My fault. You know me, sometimes I get too excited and get clumsy” He said, finally going back to his food. Hoping that somebody else gets Jihoon’s attention. Whilst he does like having it, Soonyoung just doesn't know what to do with it.
They’ve been friends since pups, but as he had said, they weren't the closest. Soonyoung as a kid was loud and boisterous while Jihoon was a quiet child. Then they presented and it's another wall that added to their ever growing distance. Soonyoung, no matter how playful he is, is actually painfully shy and introverted. Jihoon, although introverted as him, grew confident in himself. It became even harder to approach Jihoon then, Soonyoung being aware of their differences. There’s also the fact that their group of friends grew so large, all thirteen of them. Making it hard to find the time to just be close to one another, and also because his own feelings wouldn't let him get too close.
So they're in a limbo of friends but not so much. Even if Soonyoung knows that most of it is because of his own fault.
These reasons are enough for Soonyoung to just be content and never try to do what most alphas are brave enough to do; confess.
Because as much as he used to want to, he'd rather have this than be strangers.
“You’re not even clumsy when you're hunting. It's your best skill” Jihoon stopped his musings, huffing at him. Still eyeing the wound on his neck as if it personally offended him.
“Sure, but I can be stupid. It's okay, it'll fade” He munches on forward. Gladly taking more food from Mingyu because the kid had barricaded Wonwoo’s plate, sacrificing his own food instead.
“You're not stupid” Jihoon frowned and Soonyoung doesn't understand where this attention is coming from.
“You always call me one?” His statement ended up being more of a question, getting more and more confused at the sudden turn of the night.
Usually, they say hi to each other, talk for a few seconds and move on. Some nights Soonyoung doesn't even find a second to talk to him at all. So this… prolonged conversation is confusing him. And it's also dangerous for his heart. It's still under training for accepting the situation which Soonyoung's brain has already accepted.
“As a joke!”
“Okay” He easily shrugged.
“Yah!” He felt Jihoon slap his arm and when Soonyoung looked at him, he was surprised to see Jihoon look so offended. “You know it's just a joke, right?”
“Yes…???” He answered, unsure and confused at Jihoon’s insistence.
“I can't believe you. It's a joke, okay? You're not stupid”
“You're not the first and only one who tells me I am” Again, easily shrugging the topic off. Unknowingly setting off the omega even more.
He didn't even notice it until he realized how quiet their group was, still focused on finishing his dinner. When the last bite was gone, he looked up to see all of them staring cautiously at Jihoon. Which made him look as well. He was surprised to see him looking at him, tense and angry. Making him think back to their conversation if he ever said anything to upset the omega this much.
“I’m… sorry?” He finally said when he can't think of anything. Their friends still not speaking as if one wrong move from them would trigger the omega to do something violent.
That's funny, Soonyoung thought. Jihoon has never been violent. Brutally harsh yes, but violent? The omega is too lazy for that.
“Why are you saying sorry?” Jihoon grits out, making Soonyoung even more confused. Because he also doesn't know why except that there's his instinct telling him to appease the omega.
“I… don't know— why are you angry?” He tried to look at their friends for clues and each of them look the other way. But Soonyoung felt like he missed something because some of them looked too amused.
“I’m not angry!” but Jihoon is almost growling. And he might've realized that too because he finally closed his eyes and inhaled deeply. As if he's controlling his… anger? Soonyoung is so so so confused.
“O…kay?”
“And you're not stupid” Soonyoung just nods but when Jihoon still doesn't look happy he immediately started to agree.
“Yes, I’m not stupid”
“We only call you that as a joke”
“Yes, just a joke”
“But we don't think you’re actually stupid”
“Actually—” Mingyu tried to say something but before he could even breathe after one word both Wonwoo and Jeonghan had their hands on his mouth. And it looked kind of painful.
“Okay, yes, that” He decided to ignore Mingyu who looked like he's gonna suffocate.
“So you should tell me who called you stupid other than us”
“Yes, I should tell you… what?” He looked at Jihoon bewildered when he finally understood what he was saying. But the omega doesn't have any ounce of hesitation on his face. His attention so focused on Soonyoung that he feels like he's gonna combust soon if nobody else takes it off from him.
“Tell me who called you stupid” And it actually sounds like a demand. Soonyoung would of course immediately obey, if only he knew what to say.
The thing is, it's kind of a running joke in the pack that he's a bit of an idiot. He knows that he's unlike any other alpha… and that's not in the best way.
He's a decent hunter because he likes doing it. It's fun and it's basically a survival need. He's been taught to do that by his father ever since he learned how to hold a knife. But he's not like Seungcheol who is strong and can probably build you a house of your own. He's not Mingyu who’s good at everything. He's not Minghao who's calm and good at protecting. He's not Chan who’s enthusiastic and ready to do everything he's told to.
He's Soonyoung.
Soonyoung, who believed that he would be a beta as a child. Has even flocked around Joshua and Vernon hoping to adapt their calmness. Has spent his pup days with Seokmin trying to learn the roles of betas in their pack.
Soonyoung, who can follow instructions but never been too good at tools. Who can't even create his own cabin if it weren't for Seungcheol guiding him through it. Who's good at weapons but too afraid to hurt animals they hunt. Who prays to the moon goddess for every kill.
Soonyoung, who was deemed too soft for an alpha. Too emotional. Too playful. Unconventional.
If he was surprised to be an alpha, their pack even more so. But he has learned to accept that, embraced it even. He learned to live through it and find a way to be useful. To be an alpha of his own rights.
So yeah, he's been called stupid a lot of times. Except he’s learned not to take it to heart and now he doesn't know who even said those words to him.
So he can only gape at Jihoon because he knows the omega is serious with what he's asking. He opens and closes his mouth a few times, like a fish, unsure of what he's supposed to say now.
Thankfully, Seungcheol came to his rescue.
“Song Ilhak” Or not.
Soonyoung whipped his head to Seungcheol, looking at him incredulously but the alpha only shrugged at him.
“Did he now…” Jihoon muttered, his expression getting more thunderous at the thought of the alpha who just confessed to him earlier.
“We don't even talk!” Soonyoung tried to defend, not knowing why he's even defending the other alpha. He just knows that you don't piss an omega and Jihoon looked beyond piss right now.
“Yeah well that's because he used to make fun of you when we were training as hunters. Only to find out you're better than him” Mingyu mumbled. And okay yeah, that happened. But that was years ago and they already handled that.
“Wow… and he has the audacity to court Jihoon? He's literally your friend!” Seungkwan butts in, making the others agree to him as well.
“Why are we only hearing this now, though?” Jeonghan asked, looking as if he too is about to get pissed. Looking at Seungcheol as if it's his fault for not saying anything sooner.
“Because it was long ago and I forgot it even happened! He probably does too! Hyung, why did you even bring that up!” He almost whines.
“He asked!” Seungcheol answered, defensively pointing at Jihoon.
“I did” Jihoon answered but to Soonyoung's relief, he looks preoccupied now. Thinking deeply before he finally stood up. “Well, thanks for the info. I’m gonna turn in for the night”
Then he turned to Soonyoung who once again flinched at the sudden attention.
“You should keep that, put it twice a day. And if it runs out, tell me I’ll make you another one” And then he was walking away before any of them could say anything.
“... what the hell just happened?” He asks the group in general but all of them just look at him like they knew a hurricane is about to come and Soonyoung is in the center of it.
Soonyoung won’t say that he forgot it but it did leave his mind. After all, it was just one of the random conversations that he has with his friends so he didn't take any importance to it.
(Except maybe the part where Jihoon tenderly attended to his wound… that Soonyoung kept repeating on multiple nights where no one would be able to tell except himself.)
The days continued just as his routine was. Waking up, hunting, hanging out with his friends, sometimes being stationed to guard at night, then sleeping before doing it all over again. Sometimes he takes errands from the others in the pack, easy ones that he can do but all in all it was as normal as any day.
But today, things seemed to change for the worst.
Right as soon as they get back from hunting, a buzzing can be heard from the pack. People whispered all around as if an unusual news had come. Again, Soonyoung minds his own business and doesn't stop to put his nose into. He knew that even if he's unwilling, he’ll hear about it later from his friends anyway. There's no gossip in the pack that they let slip from their fingers.
And unwillingly, it was presented to him by dinner.
Not by retelling like they usually do, but by all of them looking at Jihoon… disappointed? Pissed? Are they… fighting???
“What's happening?” Soonyoung whispered to Jun when he slipped in the group quietly. Watching as most of the omegas glare at Jihoon but Jihoon looked as if the sharp eyes didn't bother him.
“Uhh… uhmm… so uhhh” Jun stammered, hands sashaying around clumsily and Soonyoung could only look at him confused.
“That's just unfair, Jihoon” Jeonghan stated, voice steady but Soonyoung can hear the venom from each word. He winced, he didn't know what Jihoon did but the alpha inside of him stirred. Gearing up to defend, to shield… to hide him away from the ire of their friends.
“And disgusting. He's disgusting. You were just mad a few days ago, and now… now you're letting him court you?” Seungkwan said when it seemed like Jihoon had no plans to reply to Jeonghan.
And oh… oh.
Soonyoung knew that a day would come when Jihoon would finally find and accept a courting. They're not getting any younger and he is, after all, the most sought after. Soonyong had expected for it to come, readied himself and drilled into his mind that it's a reality he just has to swallow. But still, no matter how much he had anticipated it to lessen the blow, his heart seemed like it didn't get the memo.
He's glad that everyone seems focused on Jihoon, so him hiding behind Jun and hiding his expression was the easiest thing. He's also glad that wearing a scent blocker is natural to him at this point, as there would be no one to point out his feelings from his scent. Feelings that he tried to reel in because he has no right to them.
He was the coward who can never destroy the fragile friendship that's barely there. He tried to be content with it and live with the fact that he’ll have to bury his feelings with him to the grave. It's a bed he made and now he's gonna lie on it.
“He's not courting me… yet” Jihoon finally answered, too nonchalant for someone that's being interrogated by their friends.
“You accepted his courting gift!” Jeonghan exclaimed. If he was pissed earlier, he looks mad now. Seungcheol tried to hold him but Jeonghan only pushed him away. Standing up to stare down at Jihoon. But Jihoon met his stare with his own... unflinching, and not sorry at all.
Which he shouldn't be. Soonyoung doesn't get where the animosity is coming from. Jihoon deserves to be courted. He deserves to accept a courting gift from someone he likes. There's no reason for their friends to have an opinion about it no matter how close they are.
“Honestly, hyung, you're old enough to have a decision of your own. I know you don't need our opinion or approval, but just to let you know, I won't ever let him in our group. And I won't let him be close to us, much less to Soonyoung hyung” Mingyu sounded both mad and sad, making Soonyoung startle at the mention of his own name.
Him? Soonyoung wonders how he's suddenly in the equation. He's pretty sure nobody knows his feelings for Jihoon. Hell, their distance is all because Soonyoung made sure no one would be able to tell, or even suspect, about his affection. So why on earth is he suddenly in the narrative?
“You can believe and do whatever you want” Jihoon shrugged, still appearing unaffected.
Soonyoung was about to interrupt, but Jun held him back. Shaking his head silently. He wants to protest but Hansol beats him to it.
“Hyung… ” The young beta called Jihoon, voice soft, a vast difference to the others ganging up on Jihoon “... Can't you just find someone else?”
“Yeah, how can you even fucking like that Ilhak? He's nothing but an egoistic asshole” Chan spat, voice full of anger. And… ah.
Soonyoung finally understood. This time, Soonyoung didn't wait for anyone else and finally announced his presence.
“Hey, stop that” Everyone was shocked when he finally came out behind Jun. Jihoon too. For the first time since Soonyoung arrived, another emotion flicked on his face before it settled back to a neutral one. “Don't do this. Jihoon… Jihoon can choose anyone he likes. We're all friends here. We should support him”
Jeonghan snorted.
“Right. We're friends. That means not fucking with the person who bullied your own friend”
“Hyung, I told you. It was long ago. We were basically pups then! We were immature, he's probably changed”
This time it was Seungcheol who laughed cruelly.
“You were a pup, he was a teen. He was old enough to know that tying you on a tree for hours is basically fucking murder. Especially when it's right besides a mother bear’s nest”
Everyone gasped at the new revelation. Each of them looked even angrier than they were before.
“That's… unnecessary information” Soonyoung said, voice weak. When his eyes found Jihoon, the anger that was in his eyes a few days before was back. Fiercer, his fists clenching on the table, otherwise Jihoon remained tense as he stared at Soonyoung.
“Is it?! What else has he done?!” Jisoo, who had been quietly sitting beside Jeonghan, finally exploded. Looking incredulously menacing as he stood up and looked at all the alpha in the group. Daring them to stay quiet.
“Don't look at me! I wasn't even old enough to train with them before!” Chan exclaimed.
“Mingyu” Wonwoo warned, forcing his mate to speak up.
“I.. uhh…”
“That's enough” Soonyoung finally growled and all of them flinched.
Soonyoung has always been an amicable alpha. Too soft even, as they insult him. He barely, if not at all, postures much less do an alpha command. He rarely gets mad, hence it's understandable that all of them were surprised and scared.
“Leave it in the past. I don't want another word of it again” When Soonyoung noticed how his friends stayed silent, he realized how he had lost his temper. Closing his eyes, he breathes deeply and tries to soften back his words. “Let Jihoon be, okay? There's a reason why he chose him”
“Yeah… “ Jihoon finally spoke. “There's a reason I chose him”
And it was odd. Because instead of feeling heartbroken, Soonyoung felt shivers instead. Jihoon's words don't sound… affectionate. Nor warm. Things that you associate when one is interested in another romantically. No. It sounds like a threat.
And once Soonyoung met his gaze.
His heart all but dropped at the cold indifference in Jihoon's eyes. That's not the look of someone who's happy to have found his potential mate. It was eerie, especially when a slow smirk came on Jihoon's face.
“I knew you’d understand, Soonyoung” And then he's standing up. Once again leaving their group of friends. All still in the middle of mixed emotions from the confrontation.
But all Soonyoung could see was Jihoon walking away. His gait completely confident. And it reminds Soonyoung when a cat is waiting to pounce on its prey. Cunning, deliberate… ruthless.
Soonyoung has a bad feeling of what's about to come and although he doesn't know what Jihoon is doing…. he knew at least, that if there's an outcome for this courting, mating is never one of the options.
Soonyoung wants to say that everything went back to normal after that but he's always been a bad liar. If anything, it gets worse. As the days pass, the pack gets even more excited as Jihoon’s admirer keeps giving him courting gifts. Not a single day missed. Getting bigger, better and just more each time. With the increasing pile of it, is the tension within their group of friends.
Jeonghan all but started ignoring Jihoon while being awfully indulging to Soonyoung. Just as Jihoon's admirer makes a show of his gifts to Jihoon, Soonyoung feels like Jeonghan is doing the same thing although just more on the friendly side. Always giving him food and trinkets all throughout the day. Soonyoung felt guilty because it seemed like the future Luna's wrath includes his own mate, Seungcheol. Who has been looking like a kicked puppy every time Jeonghan ignores him.
To his surprise though, instead of appeasing Jeonghan, Seungcheol seemed supportive of Jihoon. Much to everyone's confusion.
The others have taken to lowkey insulting the alpha admirer every time Jihoon's around and high-key implying that there is no chance that they'd ever talk nor welcome said alpha should the courting continue.
Some, like Wonwoo, Joshua and Hansol, who are generally quiet, just stare disappointedly at Jihoon all the time.
But Jihoon never retaliates. Never says a word. Never defend. If anything, he looks unbothered by all of it.
“Do you want me to talk to Hannie hyung?” Soonyoung asked as they're once again on their way back to the pack after another rigorous hunting day.
“Hmm?”
“I know that Ilhak… isn't the best person out there. But it's unfair that it's affecting your relationship with Hannie hyung just because he disapproves of him because of what he did to me years ago.”
“Oh, it's fine” Seungcheol shrugged, although Soonyoung can see how it is anything but fine. Seungcheol has always been clingy to his omega so Soonyoung knows that what's happening is affecting him badly.
And Soonyoung felt especially guilty since all of the attention that should be towards Seungcheol is being given to him. And he doesn't want to be in the middle of his hyung’s amazing relationship. He loves Jeonghan just as he loves Seungcheol, like a family. He won't forgive himself if he's one of the reasons that they're having a crack in their relationship. Especially if said reason has happened long ago.
“Hyung…”
“Seriously, Soons. It's fine. If anything, I’m glad that you're being taken care of with what's happening” And it sounds sincere.
“But it's not about me. Sure, Ilhak and I had some… misunderstanding. But Jihoon… likes him. We should be supportive and stop this weird passive-aggressive tension in the group”
They stopped just before they came to the clearing where the crowd was watching another show. One which has been consistent for the past few days. Jihoon being in the center with Ilhak, presenting him with another highstake courting gift. From what Soonyoung can see from afar, today's haul seemed like a chest of fine clothing. Ones that are rare as merchants trade them for such a price. Soonyoung has a few of them he has saved so he knows what they're worth.
“Oh believe me, I am supporting him”
“Right. So I’ll go and talk to the rest to let it go, okay?”
“Soonyoung-ah… don't worry about it. It won't last anyway” Seungcheol shrugged and Soonyoung wanted to ask what he meant by it but the commotion took their attention again.
“I already have those” Jihoon looked unimpressed, despite most of the pack looking envious at the presented gift.
“Wouldn't hurt to have more” The alpha— Ilhak stated, awfully confident as always.
“Okay” Jihoon answered but he looked at the gift disappointedly. Making the alpha scramble to explain.
“I have more to give anyways, it's just a little token for today” A little token, as if the clothes are so easy to get when it takes at least a full bear to trade.
“More?” Jihoon asked, a little smirk on his lips.
“More. And better”
“I look forward to it” And then Jihoon is walking away with the gift.
“See… he's giving Jihoon such beautiful gifts” Soonyoung said, as if his heart wasn't hurting by what he just saw. He reminds himself once again to let it go.
“You know Jihoon never cared for material things” Seungcheol rolls his eyes.
“But it proves that Ilhak can be a formidable… mate”
With that, Seungcheol snorted. Looking at him with amusement in his eyes.
“Soonyoung, look at me in the eyes and tell me that you believe that Jihoon actually likes him”
And well, Soonyoung can be stupid a lot of times but he knew how to connect the dots. He already knew… no, suspected that Jihoon doesn't like Ilhak. And deep down, there's an idea bubbling on why Jihoon is doing this but Soonyoung refused to let it form. Shoving it back and ignoring it. Refusing to acknowledge it. Because there's just no way…
“What… I believe doesn't matter”
“Does it not?” Seungcheol pats him on the back and the conversation ends there.
Still, it remains on Soonyoung’s mind the whole evening as he gets back to his own cabin.
There's no way, right? It's too far-fetched. There's no way Jihoon is playing a dangerous game of cat and mouse with an alpha just for… him. Right?
Well he did not have to wonder long as the answer came to him on the first day of the courting season.
The sun greeted them beautifully as ever. Excitement is buzzing in the air as they start the preparations for tonight's ceremony. They didn't have to hunt today so Soonyoung thought he would be useful by being an errand boy for today. But first he needs to get ready.
He looked at his kitchen and at the abundance of ingredients that he doesn't know how to cook. He had tried to give them away so as to not let them rot since he usually eats in the pack hall anyway but a lot of elderly that he helps like to pay him with the lot even if he tries to not accept them. He's rummaging for something light to the stomach when there's a knock on his door.
Although he knew that his friends would like to come by and provide him sustenance, Soonyoung looked at the wooden clock that states it's barely even 6 in the morning and immediately knew that it's none of his friends.
“Jihoon?” Which he was wrong. Because there in front of his door is the omega.
“I knew you'd be awake. Can I come in?” but the omega hardly waited for an answer, already coming in before Soonyoung could even process his presence. Not like he'd ever say no to Jihoon, anyway.
Still. He jolted back to action when realized that an omega, THE omega, that he likes is inside his cabin (Isn't the first time, probably won't be the last) after such a long time and Soonyoung hasn't expected it. Hasn't expected any guests at all. Meaning he doesn't particularly know the state of his place, considering that he's mostly out of the day hunting and nights for patrol. He's mostly at his cabin to actually just sleep.
Soonyoung grimaced when he noticed his sewing materials literally taking most of his couch. It's not messy per say… but it's definitely a clatter. His weapons are also hazardously spread on his work table.
It's too early for Jihoon to see him so untidy and it's too early for him to be here at all.
“I—” He was about to make up some excuse for whatever Jihoon is staring at his place when the omega himself just shrugged and went towards his kitchen uninvited. Strutting forward as if he owns the place.
“I came early to make you breakfast” As if it's a normal occurrence! Soonyoung is either about to have an existential crisis or a heart attack.
“... why?” Is all he can ask, too bewildered and brain still half asleep to form more than one sentence.
And if Soonyoung is more awake, he would've laughed at the way Jihoon looked at him. As if he's the crazy one for asking Jihoon why. Making him doubt if he's actually awake or if it's one of those domestic dreams that he's kept secret from everyone else.
“I’d be quick. Go freshen up. We can meet the guys together” Jihoon phrased it once again as if it's another usual thing they do. Which again, they DO NOT. Soonyoung would've gone crazy otherwise!
But since he can't say no to Jihoon, all he can do is just let him be and take his words like a demand. Leaving him alone to ‘freshen up’. The it was the coldest shower he has done in his life. Forcing himself awake as to make sure that he did not just dream Jihoon coming to his cabin. Taking his time, not caring if he's absolutely freezing, because he needs to orient himself that he is, in fact, not dreaming.
As soon as Soonyoung got out, he noticed how his sewing kit was packed on one side of the coffee table, with his ongoing projects folded neatly. His weapons are arranged, packed away securely on their intended holders. Even his couch pillows are fluffed and the shoe rack organized. Jihoon's scent wafting all over the air as if he lives there. A dangerous thought that made his heart excited.
Jihoon was already setting the table when he got back to the kitchen. A lovely stew inviting him to the table with its steam curling over the air. A bunch of side dishes that Soonyoung wasn't aware he had are also present, with a beautiful white rice to top it all off.
“Oh, you're done already? I haven't made coffee” Jihoon nonchalantly said. Once again acting like it's so natural for him to cook and, dare Soonyoung say, serve him. Like he's his omega. Making Soonyoung freeze on the entrance of his own kitchen.
“What are you doing? Sit down” Jihoon demanded as he’s about to start on coffee. Bolting Soonyoung out of his reverie.
“I… I can do that” Soonyoung offered. Unused to being pampered by an omega… by another person at all.
The only ones who can do that is one, his dam who still treats him like a pup despite his old age. And two, Jeonghan, because honestly Soonyoung is too scared to even stop the omega. And apparently, now the third is Jihoon. Though Soonyoung is still confused (much, much, much more confused!) on why and what triggered the omega to do so.
Especially since, Soonyoung would like to reiterate, they're not the closest in the group. They are not, and have never been, in the position to do something as intimate as this to each other. The most that Soonyoung has come to before this was running small errands for him like getting him ingredients for his medical uses or carrying heavy loads for him. The latter much less because Jihoon himself can carry most things because of his wonderful build. So yeah, what they do for each other are all… easy. Impersonal even.
“Just sit and start eating, Kwon” Jihoon demands, so Soonyoung obeys. He’s just weak like that. Although he didn't start eating until Jihoon had placed their coffees on the table and sat down in front of him.
“Tsk. I told you to start eating” Jihoon scolded, although it sounded playful.
Before Soonyoung can even react (He seemed so slow today, but what can he do, his mind is trying to cope with what's happening!), Jihoon is already plating food for him.
“That's… you didn't have to—”
“I know” Jihook interrupted. Too confident, too casual “But I did anyways, so eat”
And again, Soonyoung is just too… obedient not to do what he says. So he eats. And Jihoon looked so pleased before he too started eating.
It was quiet for a while. The two of them focused on eating. Once in a few minutes, Soonyoung would give a protest sound whenever Jihoon would refill his banchans, or add more food and meat on plate. But Soonyoung quiets down when Jihoon all but gives him a look.
It feels surreal. And Soonyoung is still not entirely sure if this is actually happening.
“Not that I’m not thankful… I am! I really am! But… uhhh, what brought all this?” He finally asked once he finished eating. Jihoon offered to wash the dishes as well but Soonyoung finally put his foot down and asked the omega to let him do it. Almost begging him, to be honest. But it's still too early and Soonyoung is so close to having a heart attack. Jihoon being domestic in his own home is a faraway dream that Soonyoung never even imagined outside of his bed.
“What?” Jihoon asked, still looking confused that Soonyoung is even questioning him.
“I mean, why did you cook… here.” Soonyoung was gonna say ‘for me’ but it sounded so pretentious that he changed his mind in the middle of the sentence. His words cutting off awkwardly.
“What do you mean? The others always cook for you” Jihoon shrugged, still entirely ignoring how unusual this is.
Sure, the others cook a lot for Soonyoung. One of them being Jeonghan who has been in his cabin for the past few days because of the ongoing tension in their group. There's also Joshua and seokmin who love to make Soonyoung his test taster. And Jun who enjoys watching Soonyoung eat his random creations. But they have never barged in as early as 6 am just to serve Soonyoung like he's a king or something.
“Not you though” He finally said, putting his attention back to the dishes.
“Am I not allowed?”
“No! I mean, of course you are! Just… surprised, you know”
“A good surprise?" Soonyoung isn't looking at Jihoon so he doesn't know what his expression is but Soonyoung nodded all the same.
“Of course”
“Then that's all good” Soonyoung nodded, still entirely aware that Jihoon didn't actually answer his question. But Soonyoung didn't want to upset him, or be ungrateful, so he didn't bother him with more questions. Choosing to just accept it. Knowing that it might just be the first and the last. So he’ll just enjoy it on his own accord. Maybe later he'll find a way to return the favor to Jihoon. Not cook, Goddess he's terrible at that. Maybe do a few errands for him. He'll think of something, anything. But later. For now, the omega of his dreams is in his cabin. He might as well stop questioning and just let it happen.
They do a few small talks as Soonyoung cleans around. Jihoon sipped on his coffee, patiently waiting for him, as he asked mundane questions.
“What time are we meeting the others?” Soonyoung asked, strapping a knife on his belt just in case someone needs help with something. The pack will be busy this morning decorating and getting ready for the ceremony tonight, so Soonyoung would just run around to see who needs help here and there.
“About now”
“Okay, let's go”
“Actually…”
“Hmmm?” Soonyoung looked at Jihoon, who was suddenly looking anywhere but at him.
“Do you mind? I need help”
Ah. Now the morning breakfast makes sense. Not like Jihoon needed to butter him up. Soonyoung would've willingly helped him regardless. But still, it was nice. And now Soonyoung’s heart can relax and calm down knowing the reason behind his action.
“Of course not, what is it?”
“Well, I need you to carry a few things for me. So let's go to my cabin first before we meet the others?”
“Sure” Soonyoung easily agrees, making Jihoon light up. And honestly, it's messing Soonyoung's head how pretty he is. Even so early in the morning.
So they trudged back to Jihoon's cabin. Jihoon invited him in, which Soonyoung adamantly refused. For as long as they've been friends, Soonyoung has never gone inside Jihoon's cabin. The only cabin in their group of friends that he hasn't been inside of. It's partially due to his feelings, but it's also because there's something so intimate about stepping inside an (unmated) omega’s cabin. An entirely different situation and experience than entering an alpha’s. So even if Jihoon tried to insist, Soonyoung stayed respectful and waited outside instead.
It annoyed Jihoon, that much Soonyoung can see but entering an omega's home on the morning of the first day of courting season? Yeah, no. That might lead to rumors that Soonyoung refused to subject Jihoon to. He's hidden his feelings for so long, he's not about to let their pack have a peak.
Jihoon just kept the door wide open. Uncaring of his safety, which made Soonyoung restless. Making him stand guard even more firm on his doorsteps, posturing even. Looking around as if daring anyone to come close when there's absolutely no one around.
“Here! Come help bring these to the clearing” Soonyoung eyes widened and his mouth opened in shock when Jihoon started throwing the courting gifts Ilhak had given him towards Soonyoung. Too careless for things that are too valuable, but Jihoon seemed not to care as he hauls all them as fast as he can on his doorstep. Pushing the big ones carelessly, but ultimately bringing them to Soonyoung clumsily. Soonyoung's pretty sure he heard some break. But Jihoon just continued to pile them up.
“That's all of it” Jihoon finally said.
And wow, that's… a lot. Like a lot lot.
It's enough to make a mountain, and Soonyoung is reminded once again that Ilhak came from one of the well off families in their pack.
“We… I think we need a cart to bring all of them” Soonyoung muttered, still in shock. Because damn, Soonyoung didn't know Ilhak was that committed.
I mean, sure, Soonyoung hoped that the alpha is very serious about Jihoon. But he didn't expect the amount of courting gifts, and don't even let him start on the quality. Any omega would’ve fallen on their knees for him. For this. Soonyoung's not saying that omegas are materialistic, but realistically speaking, if an alpha can provide this much of a courting gift, then an omega is surely to be taken care of for the rest of their life in luxury.
Soonyoung felt a twinge in his heart. Is it envy? Is it jealousy? Soonyoung doesn't know. He just knows that this is the kind of treatment Jihoon deserves and it's something he cannot give.
He's still unsure of what Jihoon is planning with this courting, especially since he doesn't seem particularly interested. Although he did welcome Ilhak’s gestures by accepting his gifts, Jihoon has done nothing beyond that. Doesn't even entertain the alpha beyond just accepting whatever he has for Jihoon for that day. Doesn't even seek him out nor talk to him, or about him. Soonyoung is sure that Jihoon doesn't have feelings for Ilhak and whilst that is a relief, Soonyoung would like for Jihoon to be taken care of.
Like this. Like a king.
And Soonyoung, although rich with other things, cannot possibly be on par.
Another metaphorical slap on the face, waking him up from the domestic stupor he has been this morning.
“I don't have a cart” Jihoon shrugged easily.
“Right. I’ll borrow from the storage. I’ll be quick” He didn't wait for an answer, Soonyoung all but jogged away from Jihoon as soon as he could. He just needed a few minutes to regroup. Gather himself up and shove down all these feelings back to the prison they should've stayed at.
Soonyoung thought that a mating won't happen when all of this shit started. But now he's not entirely sure. How naive, he thought to himself. Jihoon might not be romantically involved with Ilhak sure, but Jihoon can still mate with for stability. It's very much out of character of Jihoon, but Soonyoung suppose even the strong ones want to be secured and settled down. And Soonyoung won't ever fault him for that.
The elders in the storage let him borrow the cart without a fuss, Soonyoung promising to come back quickly to help as well when he saw that they're busy on proportioning their hauls for tonight's event.
When he comes back, Jihoon is still waiting for him on his doorsteps. The gifts are now organized so it'd be easier for them to transfer it to the cart.
Just like Soonyoung expected, they had gathered the pack’s attention as they made their way to the clearing. Soonyoung wouldn't be surprised if it'd create another commotion. The people started whispering. Some looking with unfiltered envy, and some looking in awe. They all knew who the gifts were from, knew what it meant. And now anticipating what's gonna happen next.
“You can put it right here” Jihoon ordered, pointing at the middle of the clearing where the ceremony would happen tonight. Everyone that's present and already working on decorations stopped whatever they're doing to watch.
“Okay” Soonyoung tuned them out and started organizing the gifts as presentable as he could. Something which Jihoon doesn't seem to care about.
Soonyoung saw their friends marching towards them. Seungcheol having Jeonghan on a tight hold as the omega is all but hissing to get to them. However, no one seems to come close as Jihoon all but start posturing as well. Glaring at anyone, even their friends, to try.
“All done” By the time they finished, almost half of the pack had already created a damn circle to watch.
“Thank you…” Jihoon muttered softly, a big contrast to his fierce look “Would you stay?”
The question startled Soonyoung. Soonyoung doesn't know how many times he has repeated it in his head, but then again, he and Jihoon aren't the closest in their group of friends. Soonyoung can barely hold a conversation with him without excusing himself. So Jihoon asking him to stay is so… different. Is it good different? Is it bad? He doesn't know but God he would've said yes. Just like he would've said yes to anything Jihoon says.
But the crowd parted before he could even answer, and there, with his own group of friends he's leading, Ilhak struts forward confidently. Head high, chest out, smirk on his lips.
Soonyoung can only smile at Jihoon before he's slinking away from the center to the side where his friends immediately pounced on him. Jeonghan all but pulled him on his arms, now that he's out of Seungcheol’s hold. Curling all over him in a protective manner as if Ilhak would come over just to bully him again.
“It's fine, hyung” He patted Jeonghan's arms that's holding him. Assuring him that whatever happened between him and Ilhak has been long forgotten.
“What was he thinking… making you—”
“Kwannie, it's okay. I offered” Soonyoung interrupted the other omega who's sticking close to his side. Lying through his teeth as he doesn't want the others to badmouth Jihoon.
Jihoon who's still staring at them despite Ilhak standing right in front of him. All the softness that he had shown this morning to Soonyoung was replaced by cold indifference. Eyes looking at all the ways their friends are crowding over him. There's barely a reaction to him except a twitch in his eyes and the way he tensed his jaw. But otherwise, he looks at them with a neutral expression.
“I didn't know you'd be this eager” Ilhak finally addressed Jihoon when it seemed like the omega won't start anything. “You should've told me, I would've asked my friends to pick you up”
Jihoon looked straight at Soonyoung's eyes for a moment before he finally looked at the alpha in front of him.
“Yeah, I just… couldn't wait” Jihoon answered and it made the alpha grin even wider. The audience starts to squeal as well. But it left Soonyoung holding his breath.
Jihoon's voice sounded so… sarcastic. So contained but distinct that even their friends frowned in confusion. They all knew that tone, familiar with it even. Danger. The word flashing in Soonyoung's head.
“Well that's good. Because I was on my way to you as well” Ilhak snapped his fingers and the alpha behind him stepped up to give him the box he's holding.
The audience gasped as Ilhak opened his courting gift. Soonyoung’s fist curled as he saw it.
A collar.
A gift that you give for mating, not courting. It's basically a ring that marks the omega as your mate, as yours.
And Ilhak giving it as a courting gift just meant that he's confident of what's gonna happen next.
For the first time since the show started, Jihoon broke his indifference to a smirk. And everyone who knows Jihoon knows how malicious that smile is. Still, the alpha seemed unaware and even happy that Jihoon pointed towards the mountain of gifts. Gesturing for Ilhak to put it on the top.
“Something's wrong” Soonyoung breathes. Alerting their friends.
In the next second, Jihoon produced a bottle that was hidden in between the gifts. Leaving the onlookers confused on what's about to happen.
Even Ilhak's smirk faltered into confusion before he schooled it back to a confident one. Not until Jihoon started pouring the contents of the bottle on the gifts. Making all the people gasp.
“What—” Before Ilhak could even finish his words, Jihoon already lit a match on fire and threw it on the pile of gifts without hesitation.
The fire burning so hard from the start, swallowing the objects (expensive! Beautiful! Quality!) in one whole blaze. The pack started screaming, talking over each other.
And Ilhak? Ilhak all but growled, his stance turning to a posture as if he's about to pounce.
But their group of friends had already sensed the danger before it even started. Just as the fire started catching, the alphas in their group had already run to Jihoon. Grabbing him and pulling him on their backs. Forming a shield in between him and Ilhak’s own group. Even with the gifts burning in the middle.
“What the fuck!” Ilhak screamed in anger, his friends hold him back. Knowing that they're outnumbered especially with Seungcheol being right in front of Jihoon. Seungcheol who's the future pack alpha. Even as egoistic as Ilhak is, knew not to cross him.
“Did you honestly think that I would like you?” Jihoon smirked, stepping beside Seungcheol. Looking at Ilhak with disdain, entirely unafraid of the alpha.
“So what?! You're just fucking playing with me?!”
“Yes” Jihoon answered just as fast. One word, firm without hesitation. Looking at Ilhak as if he's stupid that he ever thought otherwise.
“How… How dare you! You bitch! Omega whore—”
“Watch your mouth” Seungcheol growled. Soonyoung too, making him step up, wanting to go over there but Jeonghan firmly kept him on his side.
“What?! Just because you're friends with Choi, you think you can just fuck up other people, huh?!”
“Yes. Just like how you think that since your father is in the council you can easily bully anyone”
“So what, is this a revenge?! Did you all plan this?! To humiliate me?!”
“Oh this is revenge, that's for sure. But they didn't plan it with me. It's all me. Don't look at them and look at me. Look at the omega you wanted so badly—”
“Fuck you bitch—”
“Is that all you can say? I’ve made all this effort, put up with you for a month, and all you can do is growl useless curse? Come on, you're worse than that”
“Hyung, stop provoking him” Mingyu gritted, pulling Jihoon back but Jihoon shrugged him off.
“I’m going to fucking destroy you!” Ilhak screamed.
“Oh yeah? How? I think you keep forgetting. Your father might be in the council, but my father is the right hand of the pack alpha. You touch me and you're fucking dead. You played this power trip game so well you ended up almost murdering my friend. So let's do it your way then, let me play your own fucking game”
“What the fuck are you even saying?! Murder—"
“Kwon Soonyoung, ring a bell?”
“What”
Soonyoung felt a shiver on his body when his name was called. The spectators looked at him, for him. Ilhak turned his glare towards him as well. An anger blazing just as strong as the fire on the clearing present on his eyes.
“You… you did this all because of him?!” Ilhak growled.
“Yes. So let's be clear, Song Ilhak. I don't like you. I will never like a piece of trash like you. You try to do anything to him, to me, or to any of my friends, ever again, and this won't just end with you being humiliated. You can run with your tails and bitch to your father. But did I forget to tell you? the council already knows. All the fucking shitty thing you did. Not just to Soonyoung but to anyone else. And it's enough to kick him out of the council. Too bad, your dad begged on his knees so now they're letting you stay. If it were up to me… you would've been fucking exiled”
With every Jihoon's words, Ilhak starts becoming pale until he's left staring at Jihoon in horror.
“You…”
“Surprise! Did not expect that, didn't you?” Jihoon laughs, grinning so hard that all Ilhak does is step back. Looking around at the spectators, expecting some to side with him. Maybe even pity him.
But Soonyoung can hear them whisper, and can hear them pass the word around. Talking about how he deserves it, how their family deserves it for playing God for so long. Even hear some recounting some of his awful deeds, even what his father has done. None of them looked remotely close to pitying him.
“And oh? before you go” Jihoon stopped Ilhak when he started to walk backwards, as if wanting to get away. Halting him right on the spot.
Everyone waited for Jihoon to say something. Holding their breath as they all wait for Jihoon's next move. Watching like hawks, afraid to miss even one gesture of a hand. They all followed Jihoon's every move as he took the long rectangular box that's been tied to Jihoon's belt all this time. Opening it, showing a beautiful dagger inside. The sun shining over the intricate details over it. Making The crowd gasp once more, leaving them confused on what Jihoon's about to do.
To all of their surprise, Jihoon turned away from Ilhak until his eyes met Soonyoung's. Making Soonyoung flinch in Jeonghan's hold.
And in the next second, Jihoon is walking towards them. Jeonghan finally letting him go once Jihoon is standing right in front of him. Holding the dagger like an offering in front of him, Soonyoung is so confused on what Jihoon expects him to do.
Is he wishing for Jihoon to hurt Ilhak with it? Soonyoung doesn't think that's the case. Just like he said before, Jihoon is cruel but not violent. He wouldn't have orchestrated this whole thing if he wanted to hurt Ilhak physically. No. Jihoon had basically destroyed him. So what more can a dagger do?
“Kwon Soonyoung” Jihoon's eyes never faltered from his own. His earlier cold anger was replaced with something softer, sweeter. Gentle, even. And Soonyoung is having a whiplash with everything that's happening.
“Y…yes?”
“I made this dagger three years ago. Has been holding on to it, keeping it safe, making sure it stays sharp and its best. I designed it, and forged it on my own… hoping that one day… that one day I would be able to give this to you”
The crowd stirred as Soonyoung's mind blanked out. He can hear Jihoon, can hear his words, but he can't seem to understand.
“Kwon Soonyoung” Jihoon repeated, voice calm and firm and still incredibly gentle.
“Can I court you?”
…and the alpha ran away.