《Family (Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint Fanfiction)》


 Chapter 1: Bliss

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    Yoo Jonghyuk woke up to the sound of his smartphone''s alarm clock, he was still half asleep and the cold, winter morning tempted him to stay under the warm blankets. His outstretched hand struggled to find the noisy phone on the night table, eventually, he managed to grab hold of it, disabling the alarm. He swiftly unlocked the screen and checked the time.


    [5:00 AM, Monday, February 13 - Snow, Cloudy Forecast - Cycle In 2 Days -]


    He grunted as he saw the 1st workday, Mondays meant that it was the start of his weekly routine. Jonghyuk then sat up, briefly stretched his cold limbs, and got out of the blankets. He swiftly fixed up his bed and went into the bathroom to wash his face.


    "School runs¡­ Hmm..."


    Jonghyuk sighed as he gazed at his tired self in the mirror. He looked at his reflection for a bit and inspected his groggy visage. There were bags under his eyes and shallow wrinkles on his cheeks, his fringes were awkwardly messed up, his face had a fading scar on his left cheek and then he noticed the annoying stubble growing on his chin. He then proceeded to groom himself.


    He washed his face with warm water and shaved his protruding stubble, then stripped off his pajamas exposing his well-contoured abs and bulky biceps. His body was littered with battle scars. Jonghyuk felt the cold bathroom air waft against his bare skin and hastily went into the shower to wake himself up with a warm rinse.


    "Ah¡­ I need to wake Dokja after making breakfast, or else, he''ll be late again." He bitterly mumbled as he lathered the shampoo on his hair.


    --


    It had been five years since the Secretive Plotter, the 1863rd Yoo Jonghyuk, rescued The Oldest Dream, a young and abused Kim Dokja who dreamt endlessly of Yoo Jonghyuk''s adventures outside the Final Wall. By meeting each other that day with the help of the 1864th turn, they were able to break the endless cycle of dreaming. And now, both of them are wide awake to their new reality.


    Adjusting to their cohabitation wasn''t smooth at first as Dokja''s heart never fully trusted Jonghyuk nor his companions'' sincerity. The scars of abuse were deeply ingrained into Dokja''s body, mind, and soul. The pitiful child had refused to open his heart and would lock himself alone in his room every day, opening the door only when Jonghyuk brings him food and clean laundry.


    Jonghyuk''s patience was tested, he had to start from scratch by giving the young one a purpose to live. During the first month, he taught Dokja to use chores as a means to busy himself instead of wallowing in misery. The second month, Dokja learned how to cook together with him, eventually, their exercises and lessons became a habit and both of them would clean their house and rooms together.


    During the third month, Jonghyuk started to tutor Dokja in preparation for schooling.


    He wanted Dokja to finish his education and enrolled him into a quaint high school in Yangcheon-gu. At first, Dokja showed apprehension towards the decision, however, he changed his mind once Jonghyuk assured him that he shall be protected and cared for. After all, Lee Hyunsung and Lee Jihye were part of the school''s staff.


    Eventually, after a year of diligence and care, Kim Dokja who escaped his depressing lucid state, recovers and finally adjusts to a peaceful and normal life. It was bliss for both of them as they discovered newfound feelings of warmth. It was the first time that they felt belongingness after spending centuries in solitude.


    ---


    Jonghyuk finished his shower and dried off his body with a towel, he reached for his medication and supplements on the medicine cabinet and took a few capsules out. He then noticed that the number of his inhibitor pills had dwindled significantly since the past week.


    ''Looks like I''m almost out. Shit, a few days before my rut¡­ I should buy some later.'' He popped the pills into his mouth and swallowed it down with a glass of water.


    He took out his clothes from the cupboard and changed into them, Yoo Jonghyuk wore a black, wool turtleneck and warm wool trousers he then slipped on his slippers, and then dried his hair and combed it before heading towards the kitchen to prepare for their morning meal.


    "Something quick and easy for breakfast¡­ Ah, I think we have bacon." Jonghyuk quickly opened the fridge and scanned for ingredients to use.


    "Hmm¡­ Bacon pancakes for breakfast and Bacon and Kimchi Pajeon for lunch would be easier to prepare." He then swiftly took out the eggs, bacon, kimchi, and vegetables from the fridge and prepped their meals for the day.If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    Chop


    Chop


    Chop


    The sound of Yoo Jonghyuk vigorously chopping vegetables early in the morning echoed through the flat. The walls were thin and the sounds reached Kim Dokja''s room which was nearest to the kitchen.


    "Ughh¡­ why is it so noisy¡­ too early for school¡­"


    Kim Dokja was a light sleeper, and the sound of Yoo Jonghyuk doing prep work in the kitchen briefly woke him up. He felt the cold winter morning bothersome and buried himself further under the covers where it was quiet and warmer. He then fell asleep again as the comfort lulled him back to his dreams, which then became a nightmare.


    ---


    Last Friday was their secondary gender examination. All students who were enrolled in Yangcheon-gu High School were required to provide their blood samples for testing and evaluation.


    "Doctor¡­ is this for real?" Dokja''s black irises dilated in shock and his face became pale white. His mouth quivered and small beads of tears welled up from his eyes. On his hands was a crumpled sheet of paper that held his test results.


    The school doctor quickly skimmed through Kim Dokja''s file on his tablet. "The results are 100% accurate as this is the 2nd examination. You should communicate this with your guard-" The doctor suddenly paused as he gazed at Kim Dokja''s data with a worried face.


    "Hmm¡­ It seems that your guardian is a Dominant Alpha. I recommend letting him know immediately as both of you are at risk should you go into estrus." The doctor scratched his head with frustration.


    "B-but, doctor, I''ve been diagnosed as a Beta back in freshman year¡­ surely this is¡­" Tears started to fall from Dokja''s eyes, he was devastated.


    "It is fairly common for recessive omegas to manifest initially as betas during puberty." The doctor then puts down his tablet on the table and stares at Dokja with a stern expression.


    "The heat of recessive omegas is highly unstable." The doctor groaned. "Normal Omegas have their Estrus cycles once a month, but for recessive Omegas¡­ it''s erratic. Sometimes it manifests during the month, sometimes none at all." The doctor then shows the in-depth diagnosis on his tablet''s screen to Dokja. "That is why I recommend staying away from Alphas for the meantime, especially since we have yet to determine what type of inhibitor would work on you."


    "B-but¡­ Jonghyuk is my only family! I don''t have a place to go..." Dokja covered his face with both of his hands and tried to wipe his tears.


    The doctor then gazed at Dokja with a sad expression, he took out his business card and wrote notes at the backside. "If you''re apprehensive with that option¡­ I can recommend a hospital that deals with cases such as yours, they can facilitate your room and boarding temporarily and give you a proper diagnosis as well.." He then hands over the card to Dokja


    "You can call in to schedule an appointment anytime. Just advise them that you have been recommended by me and they''ll properly assist you and help you find the right medication." The doctor then gave Kim Dokja a pat on the back. "Don''t easily lose hope¡­ Kim Dokja¡­" A gentle smile appeared on the doctor''s face.


    "Please take this seriously as recessive omegas and their heat cycles are unstable. We may never know when or where will your pheromones manifest. We need to make sure you are safe and prepared for it when that time comes." the doctor then gazed at the crying Dokja with empathy.


    ***


    Yoo Jonghyuk was standing by the bedside of Kim Dokja, he had been standing there for the last five minutes trying to wake him up. Despite him shaking the bundled up Dokja a multitude of times already, the stubborn sleepyhead refuses to get out of the covers.


    "Kim Dokja, wake up, you''ll be late for school again." Jonghyuk scratched his head as he waited for Kim Dokja to arise from the covers. "You are going to be late if you don''t open your eyes in the next five minutes!"


    "Mmpphh¡­ No¡­ not¡­ yet¡­ why does¡­ it has to be... Ughh..." The blankets shook as Kim Dokja squirmed underneath it, his groans sounded like he was in a nightmare.


    Yoo Jonghyuk glanced at the wall clock inside Kim Dokja''s room. It was now 6:30 AM and it was almost time for Dokja to prepare for school.


    "This kid must be dreaming again..." Jonghyuk groaned, and then forcefully peeled off Dokja''s blanket and yelled at him at the top of his lungs.


    "Kim Dokja, wake up!" He then grabbed onto Dokja''s shoulders and shook him vigorously.


    "Wha-"


    Dokja''s eyes opened and he quickly sat up from his bed. His eyes were still groggy and were drooping but he noticed Jonghyuk standing before him with his blanket on his arms. There were small beads of tears from Dokja''s eyes and Jonghyuk noticed it.


    "You were groaning earlier¡­ had a bad dream?"


    Dokja nodded as he wiped the tears from his eyes with the sleeves of his pajamas. "S-sorry I took so long to wake up."


    Jonghyuk sat on the bed and patted Dokja''s head. "Welcome back." A feeble smile appeared on Jonghyuk''s face, his hand then cupped Dokja''s cheek and wiped the dried out tears on his face. "Breakfast is ready, let''s eat and get you ready for school." He then placed his arms on Dokja''s back and under his knees and lifted him up.


    "Umm¡­ I''m okay, there''s no need to carry me, I can walk fine!" Dokja''s face flushed red with embarrassment. He wiggled around as he tried to free himself from Jonghyuk''s arms.


    "Knowing you¡­" Jonghyuk sneered at Dokja. "You''ll just get back to your bed and sleep again." Jonghyuk sighed and tightened his grip on Dokja.


    "I don''t want to be called into your school for attendance infractions." He then bolted out of Dokja''s room and brought him to the dining table where they had an awkwardly silent breakfast that morning.


    ***


    It was now 7:15 AM, and classes start for Kim Dokja in 45 minutes. The commute to school was 30 minutes by train, as Dokja sat on the entryway putting on his shoes, Yoo Jonghyuk handed over a heavy lunch box to him.


    "Your lunch, eat this so you''ll have the energy for your P.E. class today." Jonghyuk groaned. "I heard from Lee Hyunsung last Friday that you were lethargic and had to stay in the infirmary due to a stomachache." He then noticed Dokja''s school tie was crooked and loose. Jonghyuk reached out to fix it but Dokja''s hand stopped him.


    "I...I can fix it by myself on the way to school."


    Dokja''s ears were flushed red, he was still embarrassed about the fact that Jonghyuk had to carry him out of bed after waking up from a bad memory. Not only that, but Dokja also noticed Jonghyuk''s aftershower scent when he was in his arms earlier. The smell of black tea, soap, and aftershave, comforted him to the point that he felt good whenever his body came into contact with Jonghyuk''s.


    He then glanced at Jonghyuk who was staring at him intently. "Uhh¡­ I''ll¡­ head out now! Thank you for the lunch box!" Dokja quickly stood up and bowed briefly to Jonghyuk, he then darted off and left Jonghyuk alone in the doorway.


    "He really has grown a lot..." Jonghyuk held a small grin on his face, he then put on his down jacket and shoes to head out on a grocery run. "Hotpot sounds good for dinner tonight¡­" Jonghyuk then made a quick shopping list on his phone, he then saw his cycle reminder on his notification bar.


    "Shit. Why did it have to land on that day too?"


    ~~~~~


    To Be Continued.


    ~~~~~

 Chapter 2: Anxiety

    Kim Dokja arrives outside the school campus fifteen minutes before the start of class. Upon entering the premises his pace quickens and he darts straight to the infirmary to speak with the school doctor regarding scheduling an appointment.


    The sound of a sliding door clattering caught the attention of the school doctor. He saw Kim Dokja enter the infirmary and eagerly sat on the stool in front of his desk.


    "Doctor, before I finalize the appointment at the hospital¡­ I wanna know, how long does it take before you get a proper diagnosis?" Dokja fidgets on the stool as the doctor held a stethoscope against his back, checking his breathing and vitals.


    "Well, it depends... Usually, they would take blood samples and analyze them for compatibility on the 1st day. And then they would do a thorough health checkup on the second¡­" The doctor scratched his head as he recalled the hospital procedures.


    "They would need to observe you also for a week since they will ask you to ingest mild inhibitors to do a compatibility check with the medication."


    "Wait, a week?! I thought it was just a few days?" Dokja''s eyes dilated in shock.


    "Well, for normal omegas, usually they find the right medication after the blood analysis. But for cases like yours¡­ the fastest I''ve heard about is five days and the rest were all a week or more." The doctor groaned.


    Kim Dokja''s face pales. He quickly glances at the calendar that was on the desk and counts the possible days that he''ll need for a medical leave. His brows were furrowed and his expression turned bitter.


    {February 15}


    It was a few days before his 20th birthday.


    Ever since Kim Dokja started to live together with Yoo Jonghyuk, it had been a tradition for them to celebrate their birthdays by hosting a quaint dinner party at their humble home. Jonghyuk would cook up a feast and bake a cake, his companions in the 1863rd turn also dropped by to give gifts and celebrate with them and Dokja. The dinners they held for the past four years were filled with warmth and joy.


    However this year, it looked like Kim Dokja will be celebrating on his own in the hospital. Dokja took a deep breath and contemplates for a bit before swallowing his anxiety.


    "So, have you made your decision, Kim Dokja?" The doctor then stows away his stethoscope and logs notes on Dokja''s file on his tablet.


    "Doctor, can you please confirm my appointment for tomorrow?"


    The doctor''s eyes gleamed, relief was seen on his face. "I''ll call the hospital then, do you want a morning or an afternoon appointment?"


    "Afternoon, please."


    Dokja''s eyes were filled with uncertainty and his thoughts were stuffed with worry while thinking about how he should break the news to Yoo Jonghyuk. Although he is already of legal age, Dokja values respect and courtesy by communicating with his guardian with what was happening with his life.


    Only this time, he had difficulty in doing so. He had been avoiding school talk and long conversations with Yoo Jonghyuk ever since he got his examination results.


    "Alright, I''ve forwarded your data to the hospital, Kim Dokja. I''ll ring them to confirm your slot tomorrow afternoon. I''ll recommend to the school that you''ll require an immediate medical leave." The doctor then put down his tablet back on his table.


    "You should go to class soon, you''ll only have 5 minutes left." He then points his finger at the wall clock.


    "Oh! Crap, I almost forgot!" Dokja runs toward the door and opens it with force. "Thanks so much, doctor!" he then scurries off to his classroom.


    The doctor watched Dokja as he left the room. He then took out his mobile phone and rang the hospital


    ***


    Yoo Jonghyuk was waiting in line at the pharmacy, he opted to replenish his inhibitor pills first before heading to the grocer to buy ingredients for dinner. After all, he knew that his pill consumption would spike by threefold whenever his rut was close. If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    His turn then comes up, Jonghyuk handed over his prescription to the pharmacist who quickly took note of the medication needed. The man then turns back to the medicine cabinets to search for them. After a few minutes, the man checks their shop inventory on the digital kiosk, his face looks troubled and the pharmacist returns to Jonghyuk empty-handed.


    "I''m afraid we don''t have your medication available, sir. It seems that our stocks will arrive by Friday, the soonest. I apologize for the inconvenience." The pharmacist then returned Jonghyuk''s prescription and bowed slightly.


    "Alright, thanks for letting me know. I''ll check other pharmacies too." Jonghyuk shoves the prescription to his jacket''s pocket and walks out of the store, He then pulls out the phone from his pocket and searches for other pharmacies in the area.


    ''Shit! I can''t risk getting into a rut¡­ Dokja will be inconvenienced by-''


    Jonghyuk''s thoughts were suddenly interrupted, he felt his phone vibrating and the notification bar indicated an incoming call, he saw that it was Lee Jihye, he then answered the call.


    [Captain!!]


    Lee Jihye''s voice sounded angry. Jonghyuk was slightly taken aback.


    "What is it, Lee Jihye?"


    [I just want to validate something since this is about Dokja!]


    "What about Kim Dokja? Is someone bullying him again?"


    [No! It''s not that¡­ It''s just that, the school doctor applied for an emergency medical leave on behalf of Kim Dokja. We just received the request and-]


    "This is the first I''ve heard of this, Jihye." Jonghyuk scratched his head and massaged his forehead, Dokja had been giving him the cold shoulder since the weekend and he was clueless, he felt a headache coming to him.


    "What was the reason for the medical leave?"


    [Well, the doctor noted here that it was regarding Dokja''s gender results last Friday. He also recommended an immediate leave starting tomorrow until indefinitely due to the nature of the results.]


    Jonghyuk''s face started to fill with bitterness and his mind was clouded by a multitude of questions.


    ''Why didn''t that brat inform me of this? Did I raise him wrong? Why does he want to leave me? Is he finally entering the rebellious age?''


    Jonghyuk groans as he contemplates how should he speak to Dokja once he gets home.


    [...Also Captain, please take it easy on Dokja too, I just saw the results now and if I were in Dokja''s shoes I would probably hesitate as well¡­ speaking to you about it, that is.]


    "Why? Didn''t we already identify his gender as a Beta during his freshman enrolment? He''s just a normal brat-"


    [Recessive Omega.] Jihye interjects Jonghyuk''s response. Her voice sounded a little apprehensive.


    [His secondary results manifested as an Omega.]


    Yoo Jonghyuk dropped his phone as he froze in shock.


    ***


    "Hey, Kim Dokja! Are you sure you''re fine now?" Lee Hyunsung was confronting Dokja in the gym''s locker room. It was 30 minutes before the end of lunch break and Kim Dokja went ahead to speak to Lee Hyunsung about him flaking out from P.E. class last Friday.


    "We''ll be doing sprints today, and I don''t want you collapsing midway again." Hyunsung scratched his head. "I might get an earful from the captain again of something happens to you."


    "I''m fine now, Hyung¡­ Thanks to Jonghyuk''s generous lunch, I think I can run a lot today. Please don''t worry too much." Dokja bowed his head slightly. "And I''m sorry if I put you through a tight spot too¡­"


    "Ah, don''t apologize! The captain has always been like that¡­ Oh! by the way, I just remembered! Since your birthday is coming up, do you want anything as a gift? It is your 20th birthday soon¡­ and this is probably the last gift I can give since you''re heading to college soon too." Hyunsung gently pats Kim Dokja''s back.


    "I-I''ll pass¡­ sorry, Hyung." Dokja''s face became gloomy.


    "Wait, you''re not celebrating?" Hyunsung''s eyes widen with shock. "But you enjoy the birthday dinners every year! Have you grown tired of eating Jonghyuk''s Lemon Cheesecake every birthday?"


    "It''s not that, Hyung!" Dokja grabbed Hyunsung''s sleeve. "There''s just something I need to do urgently¡­ I can''t afford to delay it too since my health is at risk." his grip tightened.


    Dokja suppressed his tears and held his breath as he relays the bad news to Lee Hyunsung.


    "Hyung, please don''t tell this to Jonghyuk¡­But... I manifested as an Omega on my 2nd gender exam." Small beads of tears started to swell from Dokja''s eyes.


    "Why, what''s wrong with it?" Hyunsung then cups both of his hands on Dokja''s cheeks. "Is someone trying to bully you because you''re an Omega?" Hyunsung''s face was etched with worry.


    "No! It''s not that one too¡­" Teardrops started to fall from Dokja''s cheeks.


    "I''m scared¡­ what if Jonghyuk¡­ hates me if I tell him¡­" His throat felt tight and his voice was trembling. "What if he despises me and leaves? Or what if he kicks me out for being a useless omega?" Dokja started to sob loudly.


    "Hyung, what should I do?"


    Dokja recollected how poorly Omegas were treated in their society. The majority of the adult omegas who lived in Seoul grew up in foster care, due to their Estrus cycles. They were deemed as beings who bring great inconveniences as their pheromones could influence one''s rationality. Most of the Alphas also treated them as tools to curb their libido and some omegas would end up as a living fleshlight for Alpha use.


    Dokja was terrified.


    Lee Hyunsung saw Kim Dokja''s dismal state and he felt overwhelming compassion towards Dokja. It reminded him of the time when they rescued him at the train station. He then gave Kim Dokja a warm brotherly hug.


    "I''m sure it will be fine, he won''t hate you, Dokja¡­ the Captain cares for you a lot after all." Hyunsung strokes Dokja''s back to comfort him.


    "He''ll probably dote on you more though, so you better be prepared to see him become a helicopter dad." A small chuckle escapes Hyunsung, he then releases his embrace.


    "I heard from the school doctor last Friday about it too. He approached me since he was worried that you were apprehensive talking about it with Jonghyuk." Hyunsung then pats Dokja''s head.


    "I''m an Alpha, but I''m already paired, so I can give you advice if you''re having difficulty dealing with the Captain. If you want, I can come over later and talk to him in your stead!" Hyunsung smiles gently at Dokja.


    Dokja felt relief as Hyunsung comforted him, he recalled the time Jonghyuk and his companions took him away from the cold, stagnant subway station. Dokja wipes his tears dry with his sleeves and his soft sobbing faded to silence.


    Hyunsung pulls out a handkerchief and lends it to Dokja. "Go and wash your face, Dokja! I''ll fetch you later after school so we can talk to the captain together, alright?"


    Dokja nods in agreement and then scurried off to the washroom. Hyunsung watched him leave the locker room, once he was certain that Dokja left, he quickly took out his inhibitors from his pocket and quickly ingested a pill.


    "His pheromones are no joke though. I think I''ll need to excuse him for the rest of the day." Hyunsung massaged his head, he takes out his phone and sends a text message to Uriel if he can see her tonight.


    "Crap¡­ I feel sick."

 Chapter 3: Change

    ''I didn''t even finish lunch break¡­ Crap. Jonghyuk will be mad, I''ve skipped P.E. class twice in a row already.''


    Dokja''s thoughts wandered around as he sat on the backseat inside a cab, Lee Hyunsung had paid for his fare and Kim Dokja was on his way back home.


    The school had recommended him to take a half-day off. Lee Hyunsung and the school doctor had advised the leave as Dokja was emitting pheromones, it was especially prevalent whenever Dokja was agitated or in an emotionally unstable state.


    Dokja recollected the words Lee Hyunsung had said to him after he got back from the washroom.


    "Kim Dokja, for now, try to control your emotions! Your pheromones tend to ooze out whenever you''re stressed. I just realized that your smell was stronger when you were crying earlier¡­ Go home now! I''ll give you fare and advise the school admins about your current state. I''ll also ask the school doctor to accompany you at the gate. He''s a beta, so he''ll be immune to your pheromones. Oh¡­ and also, I think it would be a bad idea for me to come and talk with the Captain if your state is like that. Best of luck though! I''m sure he wouldn''t be angry at you."


    A tired groan escapes from Dokja''s mouth, the school doctor had given him a book about Omega & Alpha physiology to study, The doctor also recommended it to Dokja so he can read and understand his newfound gender.


    ''I guess¡­ This is a little better than being swamped by homework.'' Dokja sighs, his face darkens as he sees the familiar streets near his apartment complex.


    Kim Dokja was also thinking about how to confront Yoo Jonghyuk regarding his gender examination results. He had practised the words to say to him in his mind.


    ''How should I start it again? Oh right¡­ The first step was... Approach calmly! Then the second is to apologize¡­ after that, explain and then-''


    Dokja''s thoughts were interrupted as he felt the phone vibrate from his right pocket. He then takes it out and checks on the notification bar, it was a message from Yoo Jonghyuk. His irises dilated in shock and his face became pale. Dokja hesitates to open the text message and shoves his phone back into his pocket.


    ''I''ll check it when I get home¡­ I just hope he''s out on a grocery run. It would be awkward if I run into him at home.''


    The cab stops just in front of Dokja''s apartment complex, Dokja then alights from the car and pays the driver with the money that Lee Hyunsung gave to him. He scurries off to the apartment with nervousness, as he rehearses his explanation to Yoo Jonghyuk in his mind.


    He then opens the door into the flat, stows away his shoes on the cabinet by the door and walks inside cautiously.


    "I''m home!"


    Silence greeted him back. He then called out to check for a response.


    "Jonghyuk! I''m home!"


    Dokja only heard the sound of the wall clock ticking and the water dripping from the kitchen sink. Looks like Jonghyuk wasn''t in.


    A wave of relief slams through Kim Dokja, It seems that his talk with Jonghyuk would be delayed. He lets out a long sigh and then gleefully shuffles to the kitchen to clean his lunch boxes. As he set the containers to dry on a rack he noticed that there were money and a small note left on the kitchen counter. Dokja picks up the note and inspects it.


    ¡¸For food delivery - YJH¡¹


    ''Food delivery? Wait, did Jonghyuk order something?''


    He then recalls the text message he had received earlier from Jonghyuk. He pulls out his mobile phone from his pocket, unlocks the screen and then taps on the message to read it.


    {I won''t be coming home today and will be back by the weekend. I''ve left enough money for your meals on the table if you want to order delivery, just in case you don''t like the food in the fridge.}


    {-Jonghyuk 1:02 PM}


    Dokja felt mixed feelings as he read Jonghyuk''s text. He was glad that he wasn''t at home and thus it gave him time to mentally prepare himself on how to explain his predicament to him. Dokja also felt dejected as he realized that Jonghyuk would also be gone on his birthday.


    ''Let''s think of the bright side¡­ at least he wouldn''t be there to see me go to the hospital tomorrow¡­ And if in case I need to stay there for a week, he wouldn''t be bothered by it too.'' Dokja groaned as he weighed the pros and cons of his situation. He then picks up the bills on the table and stuffs them into his wallet.


    "Ah... since I''ll be gone too, I should clean my room and the house as well" Dokja scratches his scalp as he listed the chores inside of his head. "I guess I need to prepare my own meals until I leave tomorrow.¡­ and pack my luggage too..."


    Dokja scurries off to his room to change into comfy clothes and to prepare for his departure.


    ***


    Yoo Jonghyuk was walking towards the platform of Yeouido''s subway station. His face was obscured as he wore a black facemask, and his white hoodie was propped up. He was carrying a bulky sports bag containing a week''s worth of his clothes and essentials.


    ''It will be dangerous for Dokja if I stay with him from tonight onwards¡­ I haven''t replenished my inhibitors yet. Hopefully, the pharmacies in Myeong-dong would have some.'' Jonghyuk''s brows furrowed as he thought about what Jihye had said over the phone.


    [Recessive Omega¡­ His secondary results manifested as an Omega.]


    Her words ran through Yoo Jonghyuk''s mind as he stood in wait, he was on his way to Myeong-dong to see his companions.


    They all agreed to meet up for an early dinner a week ago, to talk about setting up a surprise celebration for Kim Dokja''s 20th birthday. Every year, they would meet up to carefully plan for the menu and the gifts that they would buy for Dokja.


    A bitter scowl was etched on Yoo Jonghyuk''s face, he knew that he would be the bringer of bad news this year as he will not be able to celebrate with them due to his upcoming rut cycle. It was unfortunate that it landed exactly at Dokja'' birthdate.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    ''Damn this¡­ How the hell should I break this news to them?'' An exhausted groan escapes from Jonghyuk''s mouth. He then snapped back to reality as the platform''s gates resonated through the station, the train had just arrived and the gates were opening. Jonghyuk then sprints towards the train.


    ''I guess¡­ I need to check into a nearby hotel after meeting them.''


    He managed to board the train just before the doors closed, and took a seat near the middle part of the cabin. He pulls out his smartphone and checks for accommodations within Myeong-dong. He finds one near the restaurant where he will be meeting his companions and then reserves a room for a week.


    ***


    Kim Dokja had just finished cleaning the shared spaces of their flat. After doing laundry and tidying his room, he went straight to the kitchen to clean up. It took him more than two hours to finish it as he struggled at organizing the cutlery and utensils. Dokja knew that Jonghyuk would rage on him if his spice racks and kitchen aides were rearranged without his consent. After all, it was Yoo Jonghyuk''s territory.


    "Whew! Finally, I''m done cleaning! Darn it, why is it so tiring to clean the house alone." Dokja removes his apron and plops his exhausted body on the sofa. He lied down to rest for a few minutes and then noticed that the skies outside the veranda were tinted with the golden sunset.


    Kim Dokja glanced at the wall clock to check the time, it was now 5:37 PM.


    "Ah¡­ it''s almost dinner. I wonder what Jonghyuk made earlier, he said there was food in the fridge too." He then props himself up and darts off to the fridge to check for food.


    Dokja''s eyes ogled and his mouth drooled as he saw several stacks of labelled food containers filling an entire shelf, it was ready-to-eat meals that could last him for five days. He then remembers his hospital admission tomorrow and the sparkle of joy from his eyes vanished.


    "Holy crap, what should I do with these¡­" Dokja scratches his head in frustration. "I can''t possibly bring these to the hospital tomorrow." He then sighs as he contemplates on how to lessen his luggage.


    "Hmmm¡­ I guess eating two servings per meal would cut them down by half. I should start now so I''ll be left with nine boxes then. I''ll give the rest to the neighbours." He then takes out the Jajangmyeon and the Chicken curry and reheats them in the microwave.


    "I should also start reading that book that the doctor gave me earlier¡­" Dokja takes a deep breath and sighs.


    He knew that he had to mentally prepare himself for tomorrow''s admission. He then takes out the food from the microwave oven, places them on the dining table and grabs his utensils to eat dinner in solitude.


    ***


    The smell of grilled meat wafts on Yoo Jonghyuk''s face as he flips the pork belly and beef tongue on the gridiron. He had reserved a private dining room for the get-together that was scheduled tonight. Jonghyuk arrived first and had ordered servings of meat and sides in advance. He opted to do the grilling himself to pass the time as he waited patiently for his companions.


    A soft screech resounded inside the room as the sliding door opened. A woman wearing a thick warm coat and beanie enters, she then removes her headwear and her shoulder bag.


    "Captain, you''re cooking the meat already?


    Lee Jihye just arrived, she gently closes the door, and takes off her coat, she then stowed it on the coathanger near the entryway. She quickly took a seat across Jonghyuk.


    "Smells good! Captain, can I have a bite? Just one please!" Jihye''s eyes sparkled as she saw the fat and grease of the meat glisten as it cooks in front of her.


    Jonghyuk sighs. "Take only the pork belly. The beef is mine." He then quickly snatches all of the beef tongues on the gridiron and places it on his bowl."


    Jihye frowns, she was eyeing the beef tongues as they looked a lot more scrumptious than the pork belly.


    "...I''ll order more beef later then." She then takes the pork slices and wraps them in lettuce. As she was about to take a bite of the wrap, her phone suddenly rings. She quickly puts down the food and bows apologetically to Jonghyuk.


    She quickly checks the name on the incoming call, it was Kim Namwoon, she then answers the phone.


    [Princess, I''m here! I just met Hyung and Noona at the entrance and we''ll be in shortly, we''re just waiting for the elevator! What room were you guys again?]


    Jihye''s face flushed in embarrassment. She was still not used to Namwoon calling her pet names as they recently became a couple a month ago.


    "We''re on the 7th floor, it''s dining room 12A! The captain is already cooking so you guys better hurry up!" Jihye then hangs up the call.


    Jonghyuk smirks as he saw Jihye''s bashfulness. "I guess we should celebrate both of you finally taking a step forward." He then rings the service button on the table to call for assistance. A waiter arrives a few seconds later to take on the additional orders of meat and alcohol and shortly leaves the room.


    "How about you captain? When are you going to move forward with Dokja?" Jihye crossed her arms, a sly smirk was etched on her face.


    "W-what do you mean by that?" Jonghyuk''s ears flushed. His face didn''t reflect his agitation, but his ears were clearly red and his voice trembled.


    "Do you remember the first time we celebrated Dokja''s birthday?" Jihye stares intently at Jonghyuk. "I saw how you looked at Dokja while we were singing to him at the dinner table back then..." Jihye then takes a deep breath then takes a sip of water from her glass.


    "Your eyes¡­ and your overall demeanour at that time. It was clear as day that it wasn''t filial love." Jihye then takes a piece of pork belly from the gridiron and places it on Jonghyuk''s bowl.


    Jonghyuk scoffs at Jihye. "What are you trying to im-"


    "You love him, don''t you?"


    Jihye grins as she saw Jonghyuk''s eyes dilate in shock, his jaw dropped and his face lost its colour, Jonghyuk also dropped the food tongs into the grill, he panicked for a bit and quickly picked it up. Wiping the grease off with a paper napkin.


    Jihye knew that she hit the nail on the head.


    "But then, when Dokja got his 1st gender exam, and you learned that he was a Beta, you started to hesitate and restrain yourself." Jihye then takes one of the beef tongue pieces from Jonghyuk''s bowl and eats it.


    "Now that he''s confirmed to be an Omega, Captain... are you still going to be stubborn and hold back-"


    "Princess!! We''re here!!"


    A loud yell interrupts Jihye and Jonghyuk''s conversation. The door slid open and its rollers shrieked as Kim Namwoon opened it with force.


    "Oops, I must have tugged the door a little hard. Sorry about that" Namwoon had a sheepish smile on his face.


    "We''re sorry we''re late, captain." Hyunsung enters the room. "There was a bit of traffic along the way."


    "And the taxi driver was also slow too!" Uriel rants as she follows Hyunsung inside. "Ooh! The smell of meat! Did you guys order already? Meat tastes good with soju!" She then takes off her coat and her bag and places it at the coathangers. Hyunsung also passed his coat to Uriel so she could stow it away with her items.


    Jonghyuk and Jihye stared at the latecomers, it seems that the tension earlier during their heart-to-heart talk had dissipated. Both of them gazed at their companions in silence.


    "Captain ordered more meat and booze! It should arrive soon." Jihye changed the topic and glared at Jonghyuk, as if to tell him that their conversation is far from over and will be continued, later on, she then glances to Uriel. "Unnie! Sit beside me! I also heard that you hooked up with Hyun-"


    Uriel lunged at Jihye and quickly covered her mouth. "H-hey, what are you saying! Let''s eat first before the meat gets cold!" She then grabs Jihye''s shoulder, pulls her close and whispers at Jihye''s ear. "Hyunsung is just my temporary partner, we both agreed to help each other during our heat periods. I can''t find a decent Alpha in the modelling industry so I''m stuck with him. Don''t tell anyone or my career will be toast!"


    Uriel releases her grip on Jihye''s shoulder and sits beside her. Jihye''s eyes became blank as she digested the information she learned from Uriel. She did not expect that Hyunsung and Uriel actually paired up to maintain a casual sex relationship.


    "Here are the additional orders." The waiter knocks and enters the room, he wheeled in a large serving trolley filled with assorted cuts of beef, pork and chicken, banchan and a dozen bottles of soju. "Should you need further assistance, please don''t hesitate to ring the service button." He then takes a bow and leaves the room.


    Everyone gawked and drooled at the meat that was left on the trays. Except for Jonghyuk who swiftly snatched all of the meat with one fell swoop and started cooking them in the gridiron.


    Jonghyuk sighs. "All of you, settle down and let''s eat." He grabbed a bottle of soju from the bottom tray, opened it, and took a swig, then sets the bottle down on the table.


    "I have something to say as well."


    ***


    "Ugh, w-why does my body h-hurt so bad¡­"


    Kim Dokja woke up thirty minutes before sunrise came. He felt feverish and his throat was parched. He tried to sit up from his bed, but his limbs and back were sore. Dokja also senses a pulsating pain on his abdomen, he then falls back into the comforts of his soft mattress.


    ''I think¡­ I might have overdone the cleaning and eating yesterday. I regret eating two servings, I think this is indigestion.'' He rests for a few minutes and tries to get back up again.


    Dokja musters the strength from his legs and hauls himself up. His breaths had become short and his light-headedness worsened into a splitting headache. Dokja quickly grabs a hold of his bed''s footboard to support himself. "Haaahh¡­ Haaahhh¡­ Crap¡­ I almost stumbled." He then staggers his way to the ensuite bathroom.


    He opened the medicine cabinet just above the sink and quickly scanned through the pill cases. "Ugh¡­ where are the pain relievers¡­ Haahh¡­ Argh¡­" Sweat dribbled from his face as he rummaged through the plethora of medication.


    After checking all of the cases for a few minutes, he was unable to find pain relief medication.


    "Damn it¡­ where is it? Have I run out already? Haaahh¡­ Ugh¡­"


    Dokja then crouches in pain, there were small beads of tears on his eyes as he felt the pain in his abdomen worsen, it felt like someone was stabbing him in the bowels and his insides felt like it was being torn apart.


    "Haahh¡­ I need¡­ to check the other bathroom¡­ Haahhh." Cold sweat trickled from his body, Dokja struggled to stand up, he then sat down on the tile floor and propped himself against the bathroom tub. His body felt like it was on fire, his vision had become hazy and his entire body was in pain.


    "What¡­ is this? Haahh¡­ Haaahhh...Why is my body acting like this...Ugh¡­" He rests for a moment to gather his remaining strength, he then stands up and leans on the bathroom walls. Dokja slowly reels himself back to his bed and lies down.


    He felt completely exhausted after scouring for medicine. Dokja then felt his body weigh down on him and his eyes drooped. ''I''ll try and sleep this off then¡­ Hopefully¡­ it should be gone after lunch.'' He then groans in pain as he massages his abdomen. He shortly returned to sleep after fifteen minutes.

 Chapter 4: Acceptance Part 1

    "Fuck, my head... Ugh¡­"


    A skull-splitting hangover greets Yoo Jonghyuk as he wakes up after a night out of drinking with his companions. The ray of sunlight that beamed from the gap of the curtains blinded him, and the wide and soft mattress he rested on relieved his body aches. He finds himself inside the hotel room that he hastily checked into yesterday.


    "Ah¡­ that''s right, I went to dinner with them last night." Jonghyuk sits up as he massages his head. "Hmm¡­ what time is it?"


    His eyes scanned around the room for his phone, he spotted it on the night table and its screen faced down. Jonghyuk picks it up to check, but it was dead as its batteries had run out.


    "Shit."


    He gets up from the bed and staggers towards the wardrobe where he kept his luggage. "Where the hell did I put the charger¡­" Jonghyuk opens the cabinet and rummages through, eventually, he finds the charger and plugs it to the power outlet to charge his phone.


    "The quick charge should take a couple of minutes¡­"


    Jonghyuk squints as he sniffs the faint smell of grilled meat and alcohol reeking from his clothes. ''I guess I should freshen up while I wait for it to charge.''


    He sighs and strips off his shirt, exposing his robust and contoured torso that was littered with scars. Jonghyuk opens the wardrobe and collects an olivine wool henley shirt, a pair of black selvedge jeans and his innerwear. He laid them neatly on the bed and went off to the bathroom for a warm shower.


    ''I think I might have overdone myself last night.''


    Yoo Jonghyuk thought to himself as he stripped off his remaining clothes. He folded his laundry neatly and set it by the bathroom counters, with his change of clothes. He then goes inside the shower and shortly after, the soft squeaking of the knobs echoes through the bathroom as he turns the water on.


    The warm downpour relaxed his tense and aching muscles, the steam fogged up his vision and the smell of mild soap helped him sober up. Jonghyuk recalls the conversation he had with his companions last night.


    --


    Kim Namwoon''s brows arched in anger and his mouth quivered in disappointment. His fist slams on the table causing the plates and the utensils to rattle.


    "What do you mean you won''t be able to celebrate Kim Dokja''s birthday?! Didn''t we agree on making his 20th year a special one?" Namwoon''s chair screeches as he hastily stands from his seat.


    Lee Hyunsung, Lee Jihye and Uriel glanced nervously at Yoo Jonghyuk. It was shocking news to all of them that he will be absent and wouldn''t be able to contribute to Kim Dokja''s birthday celebration this year.


    "Calm down Namwoon! I''m sure the captain had a reason for it! Lee Jihye grabs Namwoon''s right arm and pulls him down back to his seat.


    Uriel looks at Jonghyuk with a worried expression. "Captain, did something happen? Or...are the scenarios-"


    Jonghyuk interjects. "It''s not that."


    "Then what is it? What''s gotten into you for you to chicken out on a special day?!" Namwoon clicks his tongue.


    Jonghyuk contemplates for a bit, he then takes another swig of soju and slams the bottle on the table.


    "My rut landed on Kim Dokja''s birthday." Jonghyuk groans and stares at the bottle with a rueful face. "It will be risky for Dokja to be around me from now on too¡­" Jonghyuk grabs the bottle and guzzles its remaining contents.


    Hyunsung''s jaw drops. "W-wait! C-captain, you knew Dokja was an Omega?! Then you should tell him! Did you know that he''s-"


    Namwoon cuts off Hyunsung. "Hold up! Hold up! I thought Dokja was a beta? We all saw his results on his gender exam, right?"


    Jihye grabs Namwoon''s right shoulder. "That was on the first exam¡­ Dokja had his secondary exam last Friday." Jihye sighs and looks at Jonghyuk who was slightly flushed after downing an entire bottle of soju.


    "Did you at least¡­ inform Dokja about your predicament?" Uriel stares at Jonghyuk with a concerned face. "I''m sure he would understand if you speak to him about it."


    "Uriel is right! This is the first time such a thing happened. What if he takes your absence badly?" Jihye taps her hand on the table. "What if he gets upset by-"This book is hosted on another platform. Read the official version and support the author''s work.


    "He''s not upset." Jonghyuk scoffs. "I texted him earlier after I left the apartment... He sent me a reply an hour ago." Jonghyuk takes out his smartphone and shows Dokja''s reply.


    {Thank you for the food and the allowance. I''ve tidied up the house so you don''t need to deep clean the kitchen when you get home. I''ll see you at the weekend then. (?¨Œ?) Stay safe and have a nice trip.}


    {Kim Dokja - 5:57 PM}


    "In fact¡­ I''m even more bothered that Dokja sent such a nonchalant reply." Jonghyuk grabs another bottle of soju from the trolley and opens it.


    "That brat didn''t even tell me about his results last Friday too¡­"


    Jonghyuk''s face darkened and his mood turned sour, he then chugs down half of the soju and sets it on the table after.


    "It''s a clear sign that I''m being avoided and possibly hated too. So what''s the point of me telling him the real reason for my absence?" Jonghyuk scoffs.


    Lee Hyunsung glares at Yoo Jonghyuk with a disgruntled face.


    "Captain¡­ Please, talk it out with Dokja." Hyunsung''s stern voice stood out.


    "What if Dokja is just afraid to tell you? What if the reason why he didn''t inform you about it is that he''s scared that you''ll hate him after?" Hyunsung scratches his head in frustration. "I spoke to Dokja earlier... about his results, and he''s shocked and terrified of being an Omega."


    Hyunsung groans and glances at Uriel with a worried expression. "After all¡­ the Omegas in our society are being discriminated at and being treated unfairly."


    "I mean, put yourself in his shoes captain! Five years ago, at the subway station, Dokja had been alone all his life." Hyunsung grits his teeth and clenches his fist.


    "We taught him how to live like a normal person in this world line! We raised him with the best of our capabilities for the last five years!" His eyes had become downtrodden and Hyunsung''s lips quivered.


    "And then last Friday... Dokja discovered that he is not a Beta but an Omega instead." Hyungsung clicks his tongue and raises his voice.


    "Can you imagine the anxiety Dokja felt when the doctor told him that a normal life won''t be possible for him anymore? Were you aware that Dokja felt useless when he heard about his results? His voice was trembling so much and he was panicking a lot¡­" Hyunsung slams the table with both of his hands.


    "Captain, Dokja was scared to death¡­ and it was unbearable for me to see him looking like that. It was as if he reverted back to the kid we found in the station." Tears started to swell from Hyunsung. His eyes were imbued with sorrow and his lips held a bitter smile.


    "Kim Dokja cried."


    ---


    Yoo Jonghyuk slams his fist on the bathroom''s wall as he recalls Lee Hyunsung''s sharp words. The feelings of frustration and guilt inundated his thoughts. The fact that he chose to stay away from Kim Dokja instead of speaking to him properly and assuring him weighed greatly on his mind.


    After all, it was easier for him to run than to face the problem head-on.


    ''I won''t be able to avoid the issue after this¡­ I''ll need to settle this and call Dokja later.''


    Jonghyuk rinses off the soap from his body and turns off the water. He then walks out of the shower, dries himself with a towel, puts on a bathrobe and walks out of the bathroom.


    He grabs onto his phone and turns it on. The time displayed on the launch screen was 3:47 PM.


    ¡°Damn¡­ was I out for that long?¡±


    Suddenly a multitude of SMS pings flooded onto the notification bar. All of them were from his companions last night. Jonghyuk was stunned to see the sheer amount of notifications. He tapped on his inbox to check the contents and briskly scrolls through them.


    ¡°Why are they spamming me with their shit?¡±


    He groans as he clears the notifications on his phone. Jonghyuk then notices the call logs, he had 43 missed calls and 9 voice messages that were left by Lee Hyunsung and Lee Jihye. Most of which were missed and were noted three hours ago. The latest one was thirty minutes ago, from Lee Jihye.


    Suddenly, Jonghyuk felt his phone vibrate and its high-pitched ringtone echoed through the room. It was an incoming call from Hyunsung.


    Jonghyuk answered it and was stunned by Hyunsung¡¯s booming voice.


    [C-captain! T-thank god, you finally answered! We¡¯ve been trying to reach out to you since lunch but you were unavailable.]


    ¡°I just woke up a few moments ago, somehow¡­ my phone ran out of battery. I¡¯m sorry Hyunsung.¡±


    [W-well¡­ you don¡¯t have to apologise, Captain! Y-you did drink more than you can handle last night! And I¡¯m also at fault for not stopping you after I gave you an earful too.] Hyunsung''s voice became apologetic.


    A slight grin forms on Jonghyuk¡¯s face.


    ¡°No, actually I deserve to be scolded at that time. After all, I avoided the problem instead of solving it¡­¡± Jonghyuk sighs and scratches his head. "You were right, I should talk to Dokja about it too. That brat would probably struggle without us."


    [... I guess you''ve mellowed down ever since you took him in. Is this the sign of ageing? Haha!] Hyunsung snorts. [Captain, if we hadn''t met the two Dokjas back then¡­ we wouldn''t be experiencing this normalcy.]


    [It was all thanks to the both of them that we became real. What took you so long to realise that?]


    Jonghyuk''s face became rosy as he remembered the first time that the Oldest Dream saw the world outside of the 4th Wall. He recalled the young Dokja''s happy face and his timid voice calling out his name.


    Yoo Jonghyuk was thankful that it wasn''t a video call or else, Hyunsung would''ve witnessed his embarrassed face. He swiftly collected himself and changed the topic.


    ¡°Anyhow, why did you guys spam my inbox and my calls earlier?¡±


    [About that¡­ Did Dokja call you by any chance?]


    ¡°Let me check, give me a sec.¡±


    Jonghyuk puts Hyunsung on hold and quickly searches through his phone¡¯s call and message logs, there were no messages or calls that were recorded. The last message he got from Dokja was from yesterday. Jonghyuk then returns to Hyunsung¡¯s call.


    ¡°Nothing from Dokja today. I only have the text message from last night.¡±


    [I see¡­] Hyunsung¡¯s voice sounded anxious, he paused for a bit and asked Jonghyuk. [Did Dokja inform you about his scheduled hospitalization today?]


    ¡°Hospitalization?!¡± Jonghyuk¡¯s voice thundered, his eyebrows furrowed, his mood turned sour and his grin was replaced by an angry snarl. ¡°He never told me anything since Friday! Also this admission you were saying, what was it for?!¡±


    [I-it was a c-comprehensive examination for r-recessive Omegas! C-captain, calm down! I also just learned of this a few hours ago!] Hyunsung¡¯s voice became shaky, he felt intimidated by Jonghyuk¡¯s deafening voice.


    [The school doctor notified us three hours ago that Kim Dokja missed his slot. He tried to contact Dokja to check if he would like to reschedule but Dokja wasn¡¯t answering his phone.]


    Jonghyuk massaged his forehead, it felt like his hangover was coming back to him. ¡°That brat might have forgotten to charge his phone, have you tried ringing the landline at home? He would answer it if he¡¯s at home.¡±


    [Captain¡­ We''ve been doing that since two hours ago! No one was answering so we left a voice message instead.] Hyunsung groans. [I sent Kim Namwoon to check on your house an hour ago, but he said that there was no one answering the intercom and the neighbours mentioned that the flat had been awfully quiet since morning.]


    ¡°Then he must have left and went to school, have you-¡±


    Hyunsung cuts off Yoo Jonghyuk. [We already checked here in the campus if he attended homeroom, but his class advisor said he hasn¡¯t seen him since lunch break yesterday... and his classmates said that they don¡¯t know where he went.]


    Yoo Jonghyuk¡¯s face turned pale and his vision became blurry. Cold sweat dribbled from his neck and an overwhelming feeling of dread overcame him.


    [Captain¡­ I think¡­ Dokja is missing.]

 Chapter 5: Acceptance Part 2

    ¡®I guess sleeping it off for a few hours did the trick.¡¯


    Kim Dokja stretches his arms as he sits up from his bed. The painful ordeal he experienced during the early hours of the morning disappeared. His body felt lighter and energized, the feverish feeling and the pulsating pain on his abdomen had vanished.


    ''I guess I should avoid doing heavy exercise and overeating at the same time¡­ It must have been indigestion last night.''


    Dokja arose from the mattress to stretch his back, and then made his bed. He opened the curtains and one of the windows. The gentle winter breeze brushed his cheeks, and the warm, midday sunlight illuminated his room.


    ''Wait...what time is it?¡¯


    Dokja recalled that today was his scheduled admission to the hospital, he quickly glanced at his alarm clock on the night table to check the time. It was 10:29 AM.


    A sigh of relief escapes from his mouth. Dokja thought that he missed the appointment since he had woken up late.


    ''Well, I still have two hours left before admission. If I take the train, it would be around 30 minutes. I should just get a cab so it''ll be faster getting to Yonsei Hospital.''


    Kim Dokja felt iffy as he snuffed the scent of dried sweat from his pyjamas. He perspired a lot a few hours ago and since he was exhausted, he wasn''t able to change clothes before getting back in bed.


    "I should get ready too." He strips off his nightwear and places it on the laundry basket. Dokja scurries off to the bathroom to wash up and prepare for his departure.


    ***


    Dokja felt full as he just finished eating brunch. He finally finished the bulgogi and kalguksu that Jonghyuk had left for him yesterday.


    "I wonder if the neighbours are in¡­ How should I deal with Jonghyuk''s food¡­. Haaahhh."


    He massaged his bloated tummy and rested for a bit. A few seconds later, a satisfied burp escapes from his mouth.


    ''Ah, I should refill the pain relief meds on my cabinet too¡­ I remember, there was none left in my stash. Can''t risk being helpless again if I get indigestion again'' He then gazed at the wall clock in the dining room, it was now 11:27 AM.


    ''The convenience store is just downstairs¡­ I still have spare time to buy some before I go.'' Dokja groans.


    "I won''t have enough time to drop by the neighbours and give the food¡­" He then goes to the fridge and transfers the remaining containers into the freezer. ''Sorry, Jonghyuk¡­ I wasn''t able to finish everything. Hopefully, these should last for a week if frozen.'' Dokja''s face looked troubled, he sighed as he stacked the boxes one by one.


    ''I should hurry, I need to depart by noon.''


    Dokja darts off to his room to grab his wallet and his jacket. He checks his phone for notifications and once he cleared them, he plugged it on the power outlet to charge.


    "It''ll probably take just a few minutes, I''ll get back and pick it up before I leave." Dokja bolts out of the flat and heads down to the convenience store to buy last-minute essentials.


    Dokja left the apartment complex in a hurry, as he rushed to the convenience store, Kim Dokja noticed that people around him were looking at him strangely. Some girls would flush red as he strolled past them while a couple of bystanders would cover their noses and run away from him.


    ''Do I still smell like sweat? I already took a bath a while ago¡­'' Dokja groans as he runs toward the shop.


    He crossed the street and approached the storefront. Dokja spotted a group of gangsters who were smoking cigarettes by the trash bins, it looked like they were waiting for someone.


    There were three of them, one was wearing a black pile jacket, another wore a navy trenchcoat and the third had a tribal tattoo on his right cheek down to his neck. The trio looked like the shady neighbourhood loan sharks.


    The men then noticed Dokja who was walking towards the store.


    The trio kept on staring at him, their eyes showed hostility and held a hint of malicious intent towards Dokja. His gut knew that the thugs were up to no good.


    ''Why are they looking at me? I don''t want any trouble.'' Dokja quickened his pace and averted his eyes from the group. He enters the convenience store and scans the shelves for pain relief meds, small snacks and a few toiletries.


    ''Come on, go away¡­ I''m in a hurry.'' He stalled for a bit and pretended to take his time taking out products from the shelves. Dokja then saw the men leave the storefront from his peripheral vision.


    A sigh of relief escapes from his mouth. Once he was certain that the nasty-looking group had left the area, he went towards the counter to pay for his items. Dokja checked the time on the store''s wall clock, it was already 11:49 AM. His eyes dilated in panic, he then exited the store after getting his change and dashed back to the apartment.


    ''Crap, I only have eleven minutes left! I should hurry and-''


    Dokja stops on his tracks as he sees the gangsters from the storefront blocking the path. The three men looked like they had been eagerly waiting for him.


    An ominous feeling crawled through his body. Dokja felt his knees trembling. He then asked the group in a timid voice.


    "W-what do you want? I¡¯ll hand over my wallet to you so please don¡¯t bother-"


    "You¡¯re an Omega, right?" The tattooed man steps up and approaches Dokja.


    Dokja''s face turned pale as he backed away from the man. Cold sweat trickled from his neck. "I-I''m not! You must be mistaken!" Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    "Yo bro, that kid is clearly lying. I know the smell of an unripe Omega! Hahaha!" The hooligan with a black jacket interjects. "Good thing we found one here!" The man licked his lips as he stared at Dokja.


    "Hey, don''t agitate him too much. We can''t have valuable merchandise leak out pheromones!" The man in a navy coat appears behind Dokja, surrounding him.


    "P-please, leave me a-alone! I''ll g-give you all my m-money so-"


    The tattooed man cuts off Dokja. "Kid, we don¡¯t need those if we can sell you for a higher price in the auctions tonight." He cackles as he inched closer to Dokja. The man then signals to his accomplices to close in on Dokja.


    Suddenly, the man in the navy coat lunged at Dokja and grabbed him from behind. The man wrapped both of his arms on Dokja''s neck and shoulder.


    "L-let me g-go!" Dokja dropped his belongings as he struggled to break free from the man''s armlock.


    "It''s useless! Just come with us qui- Ooowww!!!"


    Dokja bit down on the man''s arm hard until he felt like the flesh tore off and bled. The man holding him got distracted by the excruciating pain and released his grasp. Dokja saw it as an opportunity to escape and broke free from the thug''s clutches. He then bolts away from the men as fast as he could.


    "You idiot! Don''t let the merchandise get away!"


    The tattooed man checked on his wounded colleague while the hooligan wearing a black jacket pursued Dokja.


    ***


    A bitter grimace was on Yoo Jonghyuk''s face as he sat on the backseat of a cab.


    ''Kim Dokja... where the hell did you go?''


    Jonghyuk abruptly checked out of the hotel a few moments ago after hearing from Hyunsung that they lost contact with Dokja. Jonghyuk found it unusual, he knew that the brat would readily answer the landline at home if he was there.


    ''He''s not in the hospital or at school¡­ I hope he''s just at home, sleeping.''


    He decided to return immediately to check on Kim Dokja.


    "Sir, we''ve arrived in Yeouido Garden Estates." The cab driver parked the car just in front of their apartment building.


    "Thanks, keep the change."


    Jonghyuk hands over the fare to the driver and collects his sports bag. He then alights from the cab. He hurriedly went inside the building and ran towards their flat.


    ''Please be in your room¡­ deep asleep.'' Jonghyuk prays as he enters the passcode into the door.


    He then opens the door and an overwhelming scent of pheromones greeted him. The heavy fragrance of lavender intoxicated him and his vision became hazy as the Alpha instincts raged within him.


    "Shit!"


    Jonghyuk dropped his bag and quickly covered his face with his sleeve. He then closed the door and backed away from it. Jonghyuk takes out his inhibitors from his bag and ingested a few pills. He then sits down across the doorway as he waits for his meds to work.


    "D-damn it! Did he start manifesting already?"


    Jonghyuk pulls out his phone and tries to ring Dokja. He waited for a moment but the line wasn''t answered. Jonghyuk then dials and calls the home phone.


    ''Come on¡­ Answer it, you brat.''


    The line became unattended and it routed Jonghyuk''s call to the answering machine. Jonghyuk gets up and prepares himself to enter the apartment. "Fuck this, that brat is probably dreaming aga-"


    As Jonghyuk was about to key in the door passcode, he heard a set of heavy footsteps echoing along the corridor.


    He turned his head and saw three men approaching his direction. One had a tattoo on his cheek and neck, the second was wearing a black jacket and the third looked injured as he had a bandage wrapped on his right arm. The trio looked completely exhausted and was mumbling to one another.


    The group noticed Jonghyuk and pretended that they were just passing by.


    "Yo bro, did you see that? That''s the house of the Omega earlier!" The man with the black jacket whispers to his colleagues as he glances quickly at Jonghyuk.


    "Then we''ll wait here. That kid should be returning home after running away from us." The tattooed man smirks as he mumbles. "Let''s wait for that uncle to go away after a bit."


    "A-are you guys sure this is the right place on the ID? There''s a scary-looking guy by the door ahead." The injured man grumbles. He then takes out a brown leather wallet from his pocket to check.


    "This is the damn place! Yeouido Garden Estates, 7th Floor, Apartment G4." The man with the black jacket takes the wallet and pulls out Kim Dokja''s ID from it.


    Yoo Jonghyuk''s eyes widened. His face was fuming in anger as he heard their murmurs. His right eye turned golden as he saw one of the men holding onto the wallet. Jonghyuk recognised it.


    It was the first gift he had bought for Dokja on his 16th birthday celebration.


    Murderous intent filled Jonghyuk''s thoughts as he saw the men in possession of Kim Dokja''s valuables. His vision dimmed and an overwhelming rage burned inside him.


    "You fuckers!"


    Jonghyuk yells furiously at the trio, a snarl was etched on his face and his irises radiated with an ominous glow, intimidating the group.


    "Stop taking things that don''t belong to you."


    ***


    It was already 7:00 PM and the sun had set, the cold winter breeze and heavy snowfall swept through Yeouido Hangang Park.


    As the night deepened, the street lamps along the grounds slowly dimmed, leaving only the illuminations of the attractions near the Han River.


    One area, however, was devoid of visitors as it was the middle of winter. Kim Dokja was hiding under a small concrete cubby house in one of the children''s playgrounds along Yeouido Hangang Park.


    "Ugh¡­ this again!" Dokja flinches as he senses the pulsating pain from his abdomen intensify. "Haahh¡­. Haaaahhh...C-crap! I s-should h-have taken m-my scarf t-too¡­" His breathing was erratic, and he felt feverish.


    Dokja curls up and tucks his hands under his shirt to warm up. The cold winter wind pierced through his clothes and his cheeks were pale. Small ice crystals settled on his hair, brows and eyelashes as the snowfall dropped the ambient temperature.


    The ordeal he experienced a while ago traumatized him and Dokja was apprehensive to return home. He knew that the thugs who cornered him would do everything in their capacity to get a hold of him.


    "I-if¡­ only I h-have m-my phone... I-I''m so screwed¡­"


    He shivers as the winter breezes through the openings of the cubby house. "I-I need t-to get back s-soon¡­" Dokja tries to stand up, but the pain in his abdomen deepens and instead, slumps down to the frozen ground.


    Tears swelled from his eyes, Dokja wanted to move but his body wouldn''t cooperate. His eyes squinted in pain and his body felt terribly heavy.


    It reminded him of the cold, stagnant floors of the subway station where he used to dream. He was once again stuck in a dark place, all alone with no one around to help him.


    "Y-Yoo¡­ J-Jong¡­ Hyuk..."


    Kim Dokja''s vision went dark.


    ***


    "Kim Dokja! Are you here!?"


    Yoo Jonghyuk was screaming at the top of his lungs, as he rushed along the walkways of Yeouido Park. He had been running and asking around the island of Yeouido looking for Dokja for the last three hours.


    He takes out his phone from his pocket and sees the time, 7:06 PM.


    "Fuck, it''s getting late¡­" He then calls Lee Jihye for an update.


    "Jihye, have you found him!?"


    [Not yet, Captain, calm down! Namwoon and I already swept the apartment block, but all of the residents said they didn''t see Dokja.]


    "How about the stores!? Did you ask around!?"


    [We did! The cashier at the CU convenience store said Dokja bought a few items and left before 12 noon.]


    "Did the cashier say anything special?"


    [She said Dokja looked a little flushed and there was a weird flowery scent on him¡­ I''m sorry, captain¡­ but that''s all we got from her.]


    "Shit¡­" Jonghyuk drops the call and rings Hyunsung.


    [C-captain! Have you found Dokja!?]


    "Not yet, did any of those bastards fess up?!"


    [They''re still being interrogated by the police officers here in the station¡­ I''m sorry captain, I couldn''t do anything¡­]


    "Goddamnit! Did the man who tried to chase Dokja say anything?"


    [He said he lost Dokja near the riverside area¡­ Captain, what if something happened to-]


    Jonghyuk releases the call and activates his Red Phoenix Shunpo with haste.


    "By the river¡­ is he perhaps around Hangang?"


    He leapt through the park while scanning the people in the ground with his Sage Eyes. Once he cleared the area near the public plaza, Jonghyuk decided to check on the area near the pavilion. He then lands near the ruins of the old statue of King Sejong.


    He stopped for a bit and fixed his coat while brushing off the snow that accumulated on his hair, as the snowfall intensified in the last hour.


    "Shit¡­ it''s going to be a snowstorm soon. Where the hell are you-"


    Jonghyuk stops as his nose caught a whiff of a familiar scent, it was Kim Dokja''s pheromones.


    It was faint, but Jonghyuk was certain that Kim Dokja had definitely passed through the area recently.


    "Kim Dokja! Kim Dokja!"


    Jonghyuk yells as he strolls past the statue ruins. He then heads to the area where the old Samojeong Pavilion stood, as he treads along the pathways, he passes by a dimly-lit playground.


    "Fuck¡­ this scent!"


    Jonghyuk covers his nose. The scent of pheromones had increased as he inched near the playground. He quickly takes out his inhibitors and ingests another pill to suppress his instincts.


    "Kim Dokja!! If you can hear me, answer me!!" Jonghyuk presses on and scans the playground with his Sage Eyes.


    "Where are you?! Dokja-"


    His eyes dilated in shock as he scanned the area where a concrete cubby house stood, he then rushed towards it.


    "Dokja!! Dokja!!"

 Chapter 6: Acceptance Part 3

    Kim Dokja finds himself in an empty, dark space. The only area that was illuminated by light was the bench by which he was sitting on.


    As he sat alone, his hands felt the sensation of rough paper. He looks down and sees the item he was holding on to. It was a small, worn-out notebook and it was filled with illegible handwriting.


    "What is¡­ I can''t read this¡­"


    His eyes squinted as he tries to read the scribbly notes on the current page. Eventually, he manages to make out a few words from it.


    "A dream...waiting¡­ for the ¡ö¡ö?"


    He flinches in surprise as he hears a deafening screech rumble around the space. It sounded like a train had halted nearby. Gradually, the light spreads within the empty space, illuminating the darkness.


    Dokja saw himself alone in an empty subway station, and in front of him was a stalled, vacant train. As he gazed through its glass doors, he felt an overwhelming terror crawl through his body.


    There were phantoms inside the train, it looked like they were trying to escape and were violently hitting the glass. Cold sweat trickled from Dokja''s neck while goosebumps grew on his skin.


    Eventually, one of the phantoms manages to break through the glass and lunges toward him. The dark figure had a set of obsidian wings and a pair of elongated horns on its head. Its irises were blood red and it held a shining white blade on his right hand.


    The phantom''s blade was aimed at him and the entity charged, closing the distance between them.


    The Oldest Dream recalls it, the dream when the 1864th Kim Dokja tried to kill him. He wanted to run away and escape but his feet wouldn''t budge due to fear and his eyes were stuck at the figure in front of him.


    "No! I want to run away! I don''t want to stay here!"


    [I know...]


    The phantom spoke as it transformed into a young man. The Oldest Dream recognised its face. It was his older self. The phantom was wearing a white coat and a black shirt underneath.


    Its face had a resentful expression, its mouth held a bitter smile and tears flowed from its crimson eyes that radiated with self-loathing.


    [...But where to?]


    Teardrops trickled from The Oldest Dream''s cheeks as he witnessed the sword change it''s target, the phantom then aimed the blade to his own neck.


    [Everything¡­ Our ¡ö¡ö will come... with this.]


    The Oldest Dream flinched and covered his eyes. He knew that if the phantom before him ends his life, his existence would follow suit. He couldn''t bear to see his other self die by his own hands.


    [Dying alone¡­ is our rightful ¡ö¡ö¡­]


    Suddenly, a thunderous voice echoes through the station, nulling out the voice of the phantom.


    "KIM DOKJA!"


    "No! Stay away! He crouches down and covers his ears. "Don''t torment me! No!" Tears soaked The Oldest Dream''s face and his body trembled uncontrollably.


    "THIS IS JUST A DREAM! OPEN YOUR EYES, KIM DOKJA!"


    The floors of the station shook violently as the voice spoke, cracks started to appear around the platform, while small debris and dust fell from the ceiling.


    "WAKE UP!"


    The ground crumbles apart beneath the Oldest Dream, and the sensation of free-falling overwhelms him. Jolting him awake from the nightmare.


    ***


    ''Why is it so warm?''


    Kim Dokja opens his eyes and finds himself being covered in a thick thermal blanket. He was lying down in a hospital cot. Dokja sensed a dull pain on his chest and his lips felt a little bruised, his nose felt itchy as a nasal cannula was attached on his nostrils, pumping warm air.


    He felt stuffy as he laid down, he sensed several heat pads attached on his torso and extremities. His body still felt heavy and his vision was a little blurry. Dokja winces as he felt a slight pain on his left arm, as an IV drip had been administered.


    "Where¡­?" Dokja mumbles as his eyes scour the room. "...Is this?" He then notices something warm holding onto his right hand.


    Dokja then glances to his side and sees Uriel sitting on a chair by his bedside. It looked like she was in deep prayer as her head bowed and eyes closed while she held onto his hand. Uriel didn''t notice that Dokja had woken up.


    "...Noona?"


    Uriel looks up and sees Dokja awake. Teardrops started to flow uncontrollably from her eyes.


    "K-Kim Dokja!" Uriel grips his hand harder. "Finally¡­ you''re awake!" Her soft whimpers sounded of joy and relief. "Thank goodness!"


    "...Where is this place, Noona?" Dokja''s eyes wandered around the room. It looked like a private hospital suite.


    Uriel releases Dokja''s hand and wipes her tears gently, her make-up bled and smudged due to her sudden outburst. It looked like she had just got back from a photo shoot.


    "You''re in one of the rooms for Omegas, Dokja... We''re in Yonsei Severance."


    "Yonsei¡­?"


    "You almost froze to death three hours ago¡­" Uriel stands up from her seat and inches close to Dokja. She then cupped her hands on his cheeks, gently stroking them as she gazed at him with endearment.


    "Then¡­ these blankets?"If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    "The doctors said it was a case of hypothermia. You were missing for a couple of hours¡­ We searched all around Yeouido for you." A warm smile then appears from Uriel''s face.


    "Fortunately, Yoo Jonghyuk found you in the nick of time and rushed you here." A relieved sigh escapes from Uriel''s mouth.


    "Jonghyuk said, you were unresponsive when he found you at the playground." Uriel groans as she recalls his story. "He said you weren''t breathing at that time, thankfully he knew how to perform CPR so¡­ Don''t be shocked if you have a bruise on your chest and mouth, Dokja."


    Kim Dokja''s irises dilated in shock.


    "J-Jonghyuk??... T-then he knows??" Tears of panic started to swell from Dokja''s eyes. "N-no! He shouldn''t have¡­ He''ll h-hate me a-and kick me o-out!"


    The blood pressure monitor attached to Dokja suddenly emitted a warning beep, followed by the pheromone detector on the ceiling. The soft sound of exhaust fans echoes while a mild scent of aseptic gradually disperses into the room, neutralizing Dokja''s pheromones.


    "Calm down! Dokja, he doesn''t hate you!" Uriel gives Dokja a hug, gently stroking his head to comfort him.


    "...W-what?" Tears drenched Dokja''s cheeks.


    "He never hated you Dokja!" Uriel then releases her embrace. "In fact, it was actually the opposite¡­ He lo-"


    Uriel was cut off by the loud knocking coming from the door. Both of them turned their heads as the doors opened.


    "...Hyung? Noona?" Dokja sees Kim Namwoon and Lee Jihye enter the room.


    "Thank goodness you''re awake!" Jihye rushed to Dokja''s side and held his right hand, her face was etched with relief.


    "You had all of us worried you know!" Namwoon scratches his head and glances at Dokja with a concerned expression.


    "Hyung¡­ Noona¡­ I''m sorry¡­ for troubling you all." A feeble smile appears on Dokja''s face. He then tries to sit up, but Jihye stops him.


    "I''ll adjust the incline, stay put Dokja!" Jihye pushes the button on Dokja''s bed, raising his head a little higher. "Is that better?"


    "Yes, thank you, Noona."


    Uriel sighs in relief then turns her attention to the couple. "It''s already getting late and both of you are still up? Don''t you have jobs tomorrow?"


    "Says the person who flaked out on a job earlier after getting a call from Hyunsu- Ooww!"


    Uriel stepped on Namwoon''s foot with her heel. "Shut up! Kim Dokja was my priority so I don''t give a damn about my photoshoots!"


    "Oh really? I thought it was because your Alpha-"


    "Stop it both of you!" Jihye interrupts and glares at both Namwoon and Uriel. "There''s a patient in recovery here, both of you should-"


    The sound of heavy knocking distracts the group, as they turn their heads toward the entryway, they see a familiar silhouette on the door''s frosted glass pane.


    The door opens with a soft creak and the sound of heavy footsteps reverberates inside the room as the man walks in. It was Yoo Jonghyuk.


    "All of you, get out. I need to talk to him."


    ***


    Jihye sighs as they pass through the lobby of Yonsei Severance Hospital. She was leaving together with her companions from the 999th turn.


    "Noona¡­ do you think they''ll be okay?" Jihye looks at Uriel with uncertainty.


    "They''ll be fine after all the two of them were Fated pairs in the first place."


    "Wait, what? Fated?!" Namwoon interjects. "But how come Dokja only manifested now? If they''re Fated, then they should have felt something five years ago!"


    "I think Jonghyuk did¡­ You do remember him smiling when he carried Dokja in his arms when we got out of Daehwa Station?" A smirk forms on Uriel''s face. "Not to mention¡­ during his 16th birthday, Dokja was sparkling back then."


    "I knew it! No wonder! Captain''s face was amusing during that time¡­ And I thought I was the only one who noticed." Jihye scratches her head.


    The group stopped outside the hospital''s driveway, it was snowing and the trains had ceased. The trio checked on their phones while they booked a ride home. A cab then parks at the front, it looked like Jihye and Namwoon''s ride came in first.


    "Noona! We''ll be going on ahead! Give Hyunsung-Oppa our regards!" Jihye gives Uriel a warm hug. "Stay safe, okay?"


    Jihye then releases her embrace and boards the cab. Namwoon was already seated inside and waved his hand at Uriel to say goodbye. Shortly after, the cab departs from the driveway.


    Uriel gazed at the cab as it sped away in the distance.


    "Finally, those two¡­ I guess both of them will welcome a blossoming spring this year." Uriel giggles.


    "What about us?"


    A stern, manly voice interrupts Uriel''s soliloquy. She then turns her back and sees Lee Hyunsung behind her. Uriel''s eyes dilated in shock and her cheeks flushed red.


    "Will you finally watch the spring blossoms with me?" A sincere smile formed on Hyunsung''s face and his eyes were filled with yearning.


    "W-we''ll see¡­ I''ll c-check with m-my manager if I can have a short break somewhere in March or April¡­" Uriel tries to hide her embarrassed face with her scarf.


    "I came to pick you up since the trains have stopped." Hyunsung then holds Uriel''s left hand and entwines his fingers with hers.


    "Your house is in Gangnam so you won''t be able to find a ride tonight with this snowfall." Hyunsung sighs, he then wraps his arms around Uriel and whispers to her left ear.


    "My apartment is a few blocks away from here, if you don''t mind, you can stay for the night."


    "W-well¡­ i-it is better than staying o-out here in the cold." Uriel covers her flushed face, it was as red as a ripe tomato. "Lead the way then!"


    ***


    "Why didn''t you inform me about your exam results?"


    Kim Dokja felt his throat tighten as he tried to hold back his emotions. Yoo Jonghyuk stood at his front, by the footboard. Dokja then averts his eyes from Jonghyuk, as the man''s sharp stare had been constantly badgering him. He felt like a helpless chick being bullied by a crow.


    "Why didn''t you tell me that you consented for a comprehensive exam on your own?" Jonghyuk crosses his arms and takes a seat on the vacant chair beside Dokja.


    "And why on earth, did you not bring your phone with you when you went out to buy from the convenience store?" Jonghyuk groans, his eyes fixed at Kim Dokja''s face.


    "Answer me, you brat." Jonghyuk massaged his forehead, he felt like a headache was coming to him.


    "I...I''m sorry Jonghyuk." Kim Dokja gripped the blankets hard. "I¡­ I didn''t really mean to hide it from you, it''s just-"


    Dokja''s tears started to fall uncontrollably from his eyes, he found it difficult to speak as his throat tightened. He covered his face with both of his hands and tried to wipe his cheeks.


    "I-I''m really sorry¡­ I''m such a useless-"


    Jonghyuk cuts him off. "You don''t need to apologise." He then stands up and inches close to Dokja''s bed.


    He fixes the thermal blanket to the side, and takes a seat on the hospital cot, inching close to Dokja.


    "I''m not asking you to say sorry." Jonghyuk then wraps his arms around Dokja''s shoulder, embracing him. "I''m asking you, why did you not talk to me about the important things? Especially concerning your health..." His hug tightened and a bitter smile was visible from his face.


    "Do you not trust me enough, Dokja?" He then released his embrace and gazed at him with forlorn eyes.


    Dokja meets Jonghyuk''s gaze. "No¡­ it''s not that¡­ J-Jonghyuk, I-"


    Jonghyuk cupped his hands on Dokja''s cheeks, gently wiping his tears and stroking his face to comfort him. "Do you remember the first time we met?"


    Kim Dokja nods in silence as he recalls his lonesome memories at Daehwa station.


    "Every time I had to regress, I despised it. I had to start over and it was painstakingly difficult. At first, I lost my patience, and then eventually I lost my emotions and my rationality. I went mad and I started to hate everything."


    Jonghyuk kissed Dokja''s forehead.


    "The thought of hating you never crossed my mind. Even when we met at the station, I knew that I wouldn''t have the gall to despise you." A gentle smile forms on Jonghyuk''s face. "I don''t hate you, Kim Dokja¡­ rather¡­" He pauses for a bit and takes a deep breath.


    "...I''m thankful that my ¡ö¡ö, was to be with you."


    An overwhelming feeling of relief hits Kim Dokja. His anxiety and his fear were instantly quashed by Jonghyuk''s sincere words. Tears drenched his face once more, but it wasn''t due to sorrow.


    They were tears of joy.


    "J-Jonghyuk!" Dokja leans on Jonghyuk''s broad chest, and burrows his face on his shirt, drenching it with his tears. "I was so scared! I-I didn''t want you to hate me for being a useless Ome-"


    "Hush." Jonghyuk wraps his arms around Dokja, embracing him. "Whether you''re a Beta or an Omega¡­ You''re still you, Kim Dokja! Why would I hate you just because you''re different? Don''t bother yourself with such crap." He then strokes Dokja''s back to soothe him.


    "B-but Jonghyuk, what if something happens since you''re an A-"


    Jonghyuk gently smacks Dokja''s back. "I said hush! Stop with the what if''s! I told you already, I won''t hate you if you''re an Omega." Jonghyuk scoffs, he then releases his embrace and grasps Dokja''s hand.


    "If something happens between us, I would welcome it with open arms either way." Jonghyuk''s ears flushed as he assured Dokja.


    "...Huh?"


    Dokja''s tears became still and his thoughts suddenly went blank as he heard Jonghyuk''s smooth words. "C-can you s-say that a-again, Jonghyuk?" His irises dilated in shock, Dokja didn''t expect that Jonghyuk would actually be relieved by his exam results.


    Jonghyuk looks away and releases his grip on Dokja''s hand. He then turns his back and walks toward the door. Dokja saw it, his ears and neck were red.


    He changes the conversation to hide his embarrassment.


    "I''ll inform the physician that you''ve regained consciousness now. It will only be a few minutes, so stay put Kim Dokja."


    Jonghyuk darts out of the room, leaving Dokja to contemplate alone.


    Dokja leans back on the bed and stares at the ceiling blankly. Jonghyuk''s reaction earlier baffled him, and it felt like a car had run over him.


    "Wait¡­ then does that mean¡­?" He then recalled Uriel''s words earlier.


    <He said you weren''t breathing at that time, thankfully he knew how to perform CPR so¡­ Don''t be shocked if you have a bruise on your chest and mouth, Dokja.>


    Dokja massages his lips, he senses a dull pain on his lower vermillion and his chin and nose was a little tender. An embarrassing realisation then sets in on him.


    "J-Jonghyuk¡­ kissed me?"


    Dokja slaps himself in disbelief. ''Stop it, Kim Dokja! Jonghyuk had to do it in order to save my life. Crap, my brain¡­ why are you thinking of such thoughts!''


    He didn''t want to admit it, but the words that slipped out from Jonghyuk''s mouth a few seconds ago greatly shocked him to his core.


    <If something happens between us, I would welcome it with open arms either way.>


    Kim Dokja tried to shrug it off but he saw the signs. It was no use denying it, especially when the words came out directly from Yoo Jonghyuk.


    "Is he perhaps... in love with me?"

 Chapter 7: Acceptance Part 4

    ''Shit. I slipped.''


    Yoo Jonghyuk knew, he screwed up. His face was red like a tomato, his steps were steadfast and so was his heartbeat. As he breezed through the hallway, he remembered the words he said to Kim Dokja a few moments ago.


    <I don''t hate you, Kim Dokja, rather¡­ I''m thankful that my ¡ö¡ö, was to be with you.>


    <Whether you''re a Beta or an Omega¡­ You''re still you, Kim Dokja! Why would I hate you just because you''re different?>


    <If something happens between us, I would welcome it with open arms either way.>


    His eyes squinted as Jonghyuk reflected on the words he conveyed to Dokja. He stops on his tracks and crouches down in shame. Jonghyuk scuffs his head vigorously, messing up his hair. Frustration and apprehension filled Jonghyuk''s thoughts.


    ''Damn it. Was I too obvious? These feelings¡­ I don''t want to trouble him...'' Jonghyuk clutches his chest as he tries to calm himself.


    His heartbeat pulsated with joy after expressing the emotions he had been suppressing for years. However, the feeling of doubt at the back of his head snaps him back to rationality.


    ''Or is this because we''re Fated? Is that the reason why I''m having these feelings? What if¡­ Dokja only sees me as a family? Not as a Mate?'' He sighs and stands back up to collect himself.


    ''Though it is likely¡­ he treats me more like an elder brother, now that I think about it.''


    Jonghyuk checks the time on his wristwatch, it was now 10:46 PM and visitation hours were almost over.


    ''Let''s not think of such things, for now, Dokja needs to recover and rest first.''


    He then marches toward the nurse''s station.


    ***


    "He loves me¡­"


    Kim Dokja slaps himself once more to wake him up from his stupor. The pain was real and it became a bitter reminder for him about what transpired a while ago. It wasn''t a dream, but a reality.


    "Or is it because of me turning into an Omega?"


    He reminisces the time he spent with Jonghyuk from the last 5 years. Jonghyuk had taught him how to do chores, helped him with his studies and deeply cared for him. The memories he saw were full of filial love, and it baffled him more as Jonghyuk acted more like a parent instead of a lover towards him.


    "Then what made him fall for me?"


    Dokja recollects the events yesterday morning: Jonghyuk wiped his tears after he woke up from a bad dream. Followed by Jonghyuk carrying him to the dining table to have breakfast. Jonghyuk also reached out to fix his crooked tie and gave him a generous lunch.


    "Well, he''s touchy lately¡­ Or is it¡­?"


    The memories from Daehwa Station resurfaces from his mind.


    He recalls the days when he dreamt of Jonghyuk''s adventures, his challenges, and his actions. Eventually, the day when he met the 1864th Kim Dokja reappeared in his mind.


    Tears started to flow uncontrollably from his eyes as the rush of the 0th turn memories flooded into him like a tsunami. He remembered a novel and it''s tragic protagonist.


    "...Did I cause all of this?"


    Dokja''s face pales. He remembered every chapter of the novel, and the comments he said which influenced the author to inflict further pain and suffering towards the hero. Dokja''s teardrops were relentless, soaking the pillow on his head.


    "I gave him the stigma of regression."


    He remembered Jonghyuk''s pained expressions whenever he had to regress, he saw his injuries, his companions dying alongside him. Dokja saw Jonghyuk''s pain, anger, frustration, despair and his countless deaths.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.


    He remembered it all, the tragedy of the hero.


    The heavy burden of being the sole reader weighed down on him and the guilt of dreaming endlessly made him realise.


    "I¡­ I¡­ Don''t deserve¡­ to love him."


    ~~~


    Jonghyuk managed to notify Dokja''s physician and returned to the suite after ten minutes.


    "Hmm¡­ it''s good to see the patient conscious and responsive. However¡­" The doctor then pulls out Kim Dokja''s patient data sheet on his tablet. "We''ll need to observe him further should there be any complications after suffering from severe hypothermia. And also¡­"


    The doctor glances at Dokja and Jonghyuk apprehensively.


    "Patient Kim''s state is currently unstable as he''s showing signs of the early phases of Estrus."


    Dokja''s irises dilated in shock. "T-then, the cramps and the queasiness I''m feeling¡­ Doctor, are those¡­?"


    "Yes, it is related to that. Your body is currently in a state of change. This is fairly common for recessive Omegas since your Beta physiology would slowly transition into an Omega''s. Having painful abdominal cramps usually is related to the development of a womb." The doctor then fixes his glasses and turns his attention to Jonghyuk.


    "I would also recommend Mr Yoo here to keep his distance for the meantime, as recessive Omegas are very vulnerable to Alpha pheromones. Prolonged exposure to it may cause additional stress to your already unstable body¡­ unless of course both of you are already pairs, then you''ll be unaffected by it."


    Dokja and Jonghyuk averted their eyes from the doctor.


    "Well¡­ if you aren''t paired then it''ll be a lot riskier for you, patient Kim."


    The doctor then flicks the screen on the tablet. "We also checked the records here, it seems that you were scheduled for a comprehensive exam earlier, but your slot was missed. If you wish to do so, we can have it rescheduled."


    He then glances at Kim Dokja. "But just to set your expectation, your confinement might take more than a week since we''ll need to wait for your body to recover from the aftereffects of hypothermia." The doctor then pulls out a bundle of papers from the tablet''s case.


    "I''ll leave an admission form here for you to fill out should you wish to proceed. You may need to file this at the registry downstairs before 8:30 AM tomorrow to schedule the exam." The doctor then hands over the papers to Jonghyuk.


    "If you have any questions, please don''t hesitate to ask for me at the nurse''s station." The doctor smiles gently at both of them. "I''ll be returning to my rounds for now." He then walks out of the room, leaving both Dokja and Jonghyuk to discuss.


    The room was stiflingly silent. Jonghyuk took his time reading the forms that the doctor had left him while Dokja averted his face as he tried to conceal his swollen eyes from the man seated beside him.


    Dokja felt disconnected after realising that Jonghyuk loved him more than family. He laid back on his bed and turned his head, facing the windows.


    Jonghyuk, however, was embarrassed. He had already finished reading the forms, but he pretended to look preoccupied as he found it difficult to start a conversation with Dokja, especially now that his feelings of affection had been exposed.


    Dokja decides to break the silence.


    As he gazed outside the windows, watching the snowfall, he mumbles. "Jonghyuk."


    "Hmm? What is it, Dokja?" Jonghyuk kept his eyes on the paper.


    "I''ll¡­ go ahead with the admission¡­"


    "Okay- Wait, what?" Jonghyuk puts down the form on the bed table and stands from his seat. He then looks at Kim Dokja who was blankly staring outside.


    "Are you serious?"


    "I''ll sign the form." Dokja met his gaze, it looked like Jonghyuk was disappointed after hearing about his decision.


    "But you''ll be confined here indefi-"


    Dokja cuts him off. "I''m aware. It''s just that¡­ I can''t¡­ keep bothering you with my constitution. I think it would be best if I stay here until my body stabilizes." A bitter smile was etched on his face.


    Kim Dokja knew that he didn''t deserve to be by Yoo Jonghyuk''s side after all of the terrible things he put him through. The guilt weighed on him heavily and it made him unable to answer Jonghyuk''s earnest feelings.


    Jonghyuk clicks his tongue and clenches his fists, a bitter frown appears on his face.


    "Didn''t I tell you earlier that I don''t give a damn if you''re an Omega? If you''re taking the exam because you think I''ll be inconvenienced by it then you''re wrong." Jonghyuk sits on the bedside, several inches away from Dokja, who averted his eyes.


    "Kim Dokja."


    "..."


    "Look at me."


    "...No."


    "Please."


    Jonghyuk reaches for Kim Dokja''s face, he then cups both of his hands onto his cheeks, gently caressing them. The gesture caught Dokja off-guard, and he meets Jonghyuk''s eyes.


    Dokja saw it, his eyes were filled with hope and yearning.


    "Kim Dokja, I''ll say it again¡­ but, I''ll be frank." Jonghyuk takes a deep breath, his heart was pounding and his ears were flushed red.


    "I don''t hate you nor I don''t mind you being an Omega. You are my Fated and my ¡ö¡ö is to be by your side."


    Tears started to swell from Dokja''s eyes, his vision became blurry and his throat felt tight as he tried to hold back his emotions.


    "Jonghyuk¡­" Tears started to trickle down on Dokja''s cheeks. "I.. I don''t deserve you¡­ after all I''ve done." A soft whimper escapes from his mouth. His chest felt heavy as he carried the weight of his guilt.


    "I don''t care about the past anymore, Dokja. I''ve already forgotten about those after meeting you at Daehwa." Jonghyuk whispers to Dokja.


    "B-but Jonghyuk, it was because of me that you''ve suffered too mu-"


    Jonghyuk interrupts. "The regressions¡­ I''ve already forgiven those."


    Jonghyuk inches closer to the bed.


    "I want to move forward with you, Dokja."


    Jonghyuk leans and gently pulls in Dokja''s face to his. Their noses barely touched, and a mild scent of black tea and lavender slowly fills the room.


    Dokja''s eyes dilated in shock as he felt Jonghyuk''s soft lips land on his, His body twitched as he felt the man slip in his tongue, coaxing his own to action. It felt terribly good and Dokja''s body didn''t resist the pleasure. Slowly, he closed his eyes and loosened his lips, making it easier for Jonghyuk to smother him as they stimulated each other''s tongues.


    Jonghyuk found it endearing as Dokja slowly opened up himself. He kneeled forward pinning down Dokja''s head and body back to the bed. Dokja welcomed Jonghyuk''s advance and his hands slowly writhed onto the man''s chest eventually latching onto his broad back.


    The scent of their pheromones grew stronger as they exchanged their warmth.


    Dokja feels Jonghyuk''s hands slither from his cheeks and down to his neck, his rough fingers gently caress his bare skin. Gradually, one of Jonghyuk''s hands smoothens along Dokja''s nape, touching the scent gland.


    A soft moan of pleasure escapes from Dokja as Jonghyuk fondles the tender spot. Dokja felt feverish every time the man''s fingers fiddled with his nape and his breaths had become shallow.


    Jonghyuk releases the kiss and gazes down at Dokja who was flushed red and gasping for breath. He then wraps his arms around him, locking him in a tight embrace.


    "I love you, Kim Dokja¡­ Please be my Mate."

 Chapter 8: Love Part 1

    "I love you, Kim Dokja. Please, be my Mate."


    Yoo Jonghyuk''s words rang loud inside Kim Dokja''s thoughts as he recalled what transpired several moments ago. It was already 11:57 PM and visitation hours were over at Yonsei Severance Hospital.


    Dokja''s face flushed red in embarrassment as he thought of Jonghyuk''s warm, soft lips, his sturdy hands caressing his bare skin and his low, suave voice as he whispered to him. He didn''t want to admit it, but the deep kiss both of them shared felt intoxicatingly good. Dokja didn''t anticipate that Jonghyuk''s Alpha pheromones would be overwhelmingly strong and it made his Omega instincts react by letting his body submit to carnal desires.


    He recollects the moment when Jonghyuk''s long, rough fingers slithered down his neck and touched the scent gland on his nape. Dokja remembers the awkward moan he let out when Jonghyuk fondled and teased the tender spot, he didn''t think that his body had an erogenous zone in such a place. It was the first time Dokja experienced a wave of pleasure course throughout his body like electricity. Just a mere touch from Jonghyuk made his body weak while his insides fluttered and craved for more.


    ''Thank goodness¡­ the nurse came in time. I thought I was going to get eaten by Jonghyuk.'' A sigh of relief escapes from Dokja''s mouth.


    Their tender moment was interrupted by the pheromone alarm inside the room. After they had done the deed, a worried nurse went to check on both men as the room''s buzzer kept on ringing at the nurse''s station. Jonghyuk felt shame and guilt for the trouble he caused and apologised to the hospital staff.


    Dokja found it amusing as he watched Jonghyuk''s agitated face. Sweat trickled from his forehead and his voice stuttered, he rarely saw Jonghyuk''s bashful side since the man usually keeps a calm and cool front. Eventually, the nurse gave both of them a good scolding for recklessly unleashing pheromones inside the suite.


    The nurse sighed as she finished her sermon and prompted Jonghyuk that the hours of visit ends at 11:30 PM. It made Jonghyuk''s flustered face turn dark and gloomy.


    Dokja recollects Jonghyuk''s pouting face as the man bade him farewell.


    "Kim Dokja, you don''t need to give me your answer now¡­ I''ll respect your decision to stay here. After all, your health comes first. I''ll fill-up the form, just write your signature and I''ll submit it downstairs to Admissions before I go. I''ll ask Jihye or Namwoon to bring some of your clothes and your phone tomorrow¡­ So get well and have a good rest, alright?"


    Dokja lets out a tired groan. "I wonder if Jonghyuk got home safe¡­"


    He contemplated the view outside the windows, the snowfall had stopped and a white blanket of snow covered the city. The nightscape was calming and the beauty of Seoul''s winter welcomed him as the clock struck midnight.


    Tears started to swell up from Dokja''s eyes, he already prepared himself for the worse, but he did not expect that it would sting badly. Unlike in the past, Dokja didn''t mind the loneliness. But now that he found the warmth of a family, he couldn''t go back to the cold, silent days of being alone.


    It was the first time in five years that he will commemorate a birthday by himself.


    ***


    Kim Namwoon and Lee Jihye had retired for the night after a long, stressful day. Both of them were dressed in matching navy pyjamas and were cuddling each other as they slept soundly under the covers of a thick, comfy blanket. The couple was completely exhausted after running around Yeouido looking for Dokja several hours ago.


    Suddenly, a loud, tenacious chime rang from Lee Jihye''s phone, the high pitched ringtone jolts Jihye awake. Her hand swiftly reaches out to the night table where she placed her phone.


    Although she was still half-awake, she recognised the sound, it was a tune she had assigned for incoming calls from Yoo Jonghyuk. Jihye quickly picks the phone up and quietly gets up from the bed, she then tiptoes out the room as she didn''t want to wake Kim Namwoon from his slumber.


    She closes the bedroom door gently and proceeds to answer Jonghyuk''s call.


    [Jihye, I''m sorry... for c-calling you in the middle of the night¡­ Did I disturb your s-sleep?] Jonghyuk stammered as he spoke.


    "I-I don''t mind it captain, D-don''t worry! I just woke up." Jihye felt a yawn coming and she let out a soft sigh as she rubs her eyes.


    "What made you call in the hour, Captain? Is something wro-"


    Jonghyuk cuts her off. [Jihye¡­ Ugh... I need your help.] He then takes a deep breath before following up his response. [D-Dokja opted to stay in the hospital f-for treatment¡­ Please¡­ Argh... Take care of him in my stead.]


    Jihye''s brows creased after hearing faint grunts coming out of Jonghyuk''s line. "C-captain, are you alright? Your voice sounds weird."


    [I''m¡­ fine Jihye. It''s the after-effects of the inhibitors¡­ Haahhh¡­ Ugh.] Jonghyuk''s breathing had become laboured and his voice sounded like he was in agony.


    [I''ll m-make this quick Jihye¡­ Argh¡­ I''ve packed D-Dokja''s clothes, luggage and¡­ a few gifts in a duffle b-bag and placed them by the shoe cabinet at our flat''s entryway. I need you to¡­ Ugh¡­ Bring it later to Dokja, as my rut just began. Haaahh¡­ O-our door''s passcode is 1863, t-take the bag and leave i-immediately.]


    "C-captain, what about you? Are you going to be fine?"


    [D-don''t worry, I''m confining m-myself inside my room until this rut p-passes. Just make sure to stay¡­ Ugh¡­ At the doorway and follow my instructions¡­ I''ve also left a note behind the door¡­ It''s regarding D-Dokja''s birthday tomorrow... Take it with y-you on the way o-out.] Jonghyuk gasps as he struggles to catch his breath.


    [S-should in case, Dokja gets d-discharged¡­ don''t let him go home here¡­ Haaahh¡­ Please let him s-stay at y-your place for t-the meantime¡­ Don''t l-let Dojka near the h-house! Ugh¡­ W-wait for my call! I''ll l-let you k-know when I''m b-back to my u-usual state.]


    Jonghyuk abruptly drops the call, leaving Jihye to worry on the other line.


    ***


    Stolen content warning: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    The morning sunlight seeped through the windows of Kim Dokja''s hospital suite, gradually brightening the room. The windows were facing east and the light outside together with the muffled sound of footsteps along the hallway gently woke Kim Dokja from his sleep. It was now 9:37 AM and the visitation hours for patients had just begun.


    Dokja woke up feeling refreshed, his body felt lighter as the thermal pads attached from his torso and extremities were loosened. He did feel a hint of discomfort on his left arm as the IV drip was recently replaced. The solution was warm and it soothed the dull pain he was feeling where the needle had been injected.


    A gentle knock on the door grabs Kim Dokja''s attention, he turns his head and sees Jihye enter the room, she was wearing a long, navy-blue down jacket and black beanie while carrying a bulky duffle bag on her left shoulder.


    "...Noona?"


    "Glad to see you''re up, Dokja!" She removes her coat, exposing her grey, wool turtleneck dress and hangs it up on the hook near the door.


    "Ah¡­ Noona...I''m sorry you had to take off work because of me-"


    "Shush! No need to apologise Dokja! Hyunsung-Oppa volunteered to fill in my post while I''m on leave." She sighs. "What''s important is, we need to get you back in tip-top shape!"


    Jihye gently sets down the bag on the shelf beside Dokja''s bed. She then inches close to Dokja. "Captain told me to bring your stuff, that way, you won''t get bored. Here, I think you''ll need this." Jihye hands over Dokja''s smartphone.


    As Dokja collects his phone, Jihye grabs onto his right hand and glances at Dokja''s eyes inquisitively.


    "Jonghyuk said you were staying for a while to get treated¡­ Did the both of you fight yesterday?"


    Dokja''s face flushed red as he thought of the events yesterday. He quickly looks away from Jihye. "W-we didn''t fight, Noona¡­ W-we just had a v-very long conversation last night."


    "Are you sure?"


    "Y-yes, we r-really just talked, N-noona!"


    Jihye''s eyes narrowed as she stared at Dokja while her mouth curved up to form a sheepish grin. Her gut was telling her something happened between the two men. She wanted to probe further but seeing Dokja''s face turn blushing pink then to a deep red hue in seconds answered her assumptions.


    ''Looks like Captain finally found the courage to confess. Thank goodness, this dense couple...'' Jihye''s smirk turned into a warm smile.


    "Alright, I won''t force you to tell me what happened if you''re not comfortable with it, Dokja." She then gives Dokja a gentle pat on the head.


    "Captain told me to take care of you during your confinement." Jihye opens the wardrobe cabinet beside the shelf and unzips the duffle bag. "I actually arrived an hour ago, but you were asleep, so I went to see your doctor. He informed me earlier that you shouldn''t be exposed to Alpha pheromones while you get treatment. So, it will only be me, Namwoon and Unnie who can look after you." She then arranged Dokja''s clothes and hung some of the shirts on the hangers.


    "I see¡­" Dokja sighs.


    "Do you want me to get you breakfast?" Jihye stands close to Dokja''s bedside. You''re probably hungry¡­" She then adjusts the incline of Dokja''s bed to help him sit upright comfortably.


    "I don''t feel hungry though, Noona¡­ It must be because of the IV."


    "Bah! Your body still needs food regardless!" Jihye ruffles Dokja''s hair. "You need to eat and recover, alright?"


    Jihye lets out a groan as she observes Kim Dokja. She noticed that Dokja''s eyes were a little swollen, it looked like he cried last night.


    ''I guess Jonghyuk''s notes were spot-on, he knew that this kid would be depressed if he spends his birthday alone.''


    Jihye then recalls the instructions Jonghyuk left for her. She glances at the wall clock in the room, it was time for her to make preparations.


    "Before I forget¡­ Dokja, close your eyes for a moment!"


    "What is it for, Noona?" Dokja glances at Jihye curiously.


    "Just close your eyes! I swear it won''t take five minutes!" Jihye pouts.


    "A-alright then, just tell me when should I open my eyes."


    "Yep! No peeking okay?!"


    "Yes, Noona."


    Kim Dokja closed his eyes, he heard the soft rustling of paper and cloth being unfurled, he also noticed a squeaking sound, as if someone was rubbing balloons and the rollers of the bed table screeched as it moved. He was tempted to take a peek, but Dokja knew better not to spoil Jihye''s lively mood. He then hears the shuffling of shoes and some muffled giggling surrounding him. The urge to open his eyes grew stronger.


    "I''m almost done, don''t open your eyes yet, Dokja!"


    Jihye quickly pulls out a small box from Dokja''s luggage bag. She also signalled quietly to her companions to ready themselves and take their positions.


    "Alright, you can open them now!"


    Dokja slowly opened his eyes, his black irises dilated and his lips quivered as he saw his dreary hospital room turn festive.


    Balloons were tied to the shelves, tables and along the footboard of the bed. Fresh bouquets were laid near his foot, while party banners dangled across the room after being fastened with tape on the ceiling.


    "Happy Birthday, Kim Dokja!"


    Kim Namwoon and Uriel pulled out celebration poppers and triggered them. Two synchronized pops echoed in the room and confetti rained down on Dokja''s bed.


    Jihye then wheels in the bed table, it was covered with a lime-coloured gingham tablecloth, and on top of it, rests a decadent lemon cheesecake tart. It had a topper of fresh berries, honeyed lemon slices and piping of dark chocolate, spelling out the words: Happy Birthday.


    "We''re sorry if there''s no candles, Dokja¡­ the hospital didn''t allow anything flammable. So, we opted for the poppers instead." A bashful smile forms on Jihye''s face.


    "T-this¡­?"


    Tears started to fall from Dokja''s cheeks. Last night, he had already accepted the fact that he''ll spend his 20th year alone. But, he didn''t expect that his dear friends would make time for him to celebrate his birthday. Their gesture touched his aching heart, and it quelled the loneliness he was feeling.


    Dokja cried, but not of sadness, but for joy and relief.


    "D-Dokja! What''s wrong?" Uriel tosses aside the popper in her hands and rushes to Dokja''s side.


    "Crap, we made him cry! Captain''s gonna kill us later¡­" Namwoon scratched his head in frustration.


    Jihye groans nervously. "Let''s not tell Captain about-"


    "...T-thank you." A timid whimper escapes from Dokja''s mouth.


    The three of them watched in astonishment and relief as Dokja collected himself. They thought they screwed up with their surprise since they saw the pitiful child breakdown in tears.


    "Really¡­ I''m thankful that I met you all..." Dokja wiped his tears dry and smiled warmly at his companions.


    ***


    The sound of soft laughter and giggles filled the room as the group settled down. Jihye was busy tidying up Dokja''s luggage, while Uriel assisted with feeding Dokja brunch and Namwoon arranged the bouquets then transferred them to a vase.


    "Ugh¡­ why didn''t they allow candles." Namwoon sighs. "Cleaning up the confetti is troublesome." He then grabs the broom and the dustpan from the closet and sweeps away the stray confetti on the floor.


    "At least they allowed pastries and cakes, so it''s all good." Uriel then slices the tart into parts.


    "Dokja, here, I know it''s not Jonghyuk''s signature Lemon Cheesecake but I can guarantee, it tastes similar." She then cuts off a huge piece and places it on Dokja''s food tray.


    "N-Noona, this is too much¡­ I don''t think I can finish this." Dokja stared at the slice, it was the 1/4th of the tart and the serving intimidated him.


    "I doubt! Once you take a bite, I bet you''ll ask for seconds." Uriel giggles. "Go on, try it before Namwoon here gobbles up the rest."


    "Hey! I''m no glutton, Uriel!" Namwoon jeers.


    "Well, you did manage to buy an entire tart at the shop a while ago¡­ Are you planning on hogging one by yourself?" Uriel snickers.


    "O-of course not! The one I bought would last us for days, right Jihye?" Namwoon nervously glances at his girlfriend, he winks at Jihye as if to signal to her that he needed help.


    Jihye sneers back at Namwoon. "If you share, it will indeed last us for days."


    She sighs and steps back as she watches Uriel and Namwoon bicker further about who was the biggest glutton of the group. She then turns her attention towards Dokja who was still hesitant about eating the slice.


    "It''s really good, Dokja. After all, the recipe was from Jonghyuk after all."


    "Jonghyuk''s recipe?" Dokja''s irises dilated in astonishment.


    "I guess you didn''t know¡­ But, Captain is a well-known figure in Seoul''s food industry. He works with food & beverage businesses to develop their menus." She then pats Dokja''s head. "This tart was one of them¡­ He knew that there will come a time that you''d crave for the cake he always bakes on your birthday..."


    Jihye then stows away the last of Dokja''s clothes and closes the wardrobe.


    "So, he gave the recipe to a cafe in Yeouido." she smiles sheepishly at Dokja. "You might know the cafe too since it''s just across your house."


    "Jonghyuk¡­ did all that... for me?"


    Jihye nods. "He treasures you a lot, so¡­ you better recover and give him your thanks when you get out of here, alright?"


    She then winks at Dokja and then heads toward her companions who were busy bickering by the bed table. The two were fighting over the oddly sliced portions of the tart.


    Dokja''s apprehension disappeared after Jihye assured him.


    He took a small bite from the tart. The crust was sweet and buttery, the cream cheese filling had a smooth, velvety texture while it''s rich, savoury flavour complimented the fresh fruits. The tanginess of the berries cut through the richness of the cheese, and the scent of citrus slowly filled Dokja''s mouth as he chewed on the honeyed-lemon slices. It was deliciously refreshing and the flavours were reminiscent of the cheesecake that Jonghyuk would serve during his birthdays.


    ''Jonghyuk...''


    The flowers of spring started to bud inside Kim Dokja''s heart.

 Chapter 9: Love Part 2

    <h2> </h2>


    More than a week had passed since Yoo Jonghyuk rescued Kim Dokja from freezing to death during the eve of his birthday. Dokja recovered from his injuries a day after celebrating his birthday. His doctors were astounded to see his progress and had issued him a clean bill of health. His primary physician recommended Dokja to proceed with the Omega exam the following day.


    Dokja was then subjected to a multitude of tests, on the first day of treatment, he went under a full physical exam. Afterwards, samples were taken from his body; blood, urine and stool samples were extracted daily while various inhibitors and suppressors were administered to Dokja. He didn''t mind the menial tests, however Dokja suffered a bit due to the side effects of some of his medication.


    On some days, Dokja would feel extremely nauseated and would vomit whenever he smells a particular odour. While some of the medication triggered his heat and gave Dokja body aches. It was an excruciating time for him but Dokja clung on and endured it. He knew he had to adapt and get accustomed to his newfound gender.


    Yoo Jonghyuk''s companions of the 999th turn nursed and cheered up Dokja whenever he was in anguish. His friends were by his side during the length of his confinement in Yonsei Severance Hospital. Lee Jihye, Kim Namwoon and Uriel took turns in visiting and watching over Dokja as he received treatment. They would bring food, flowers and books to keep Dokja entertained and distracted from the dreary hospital life. They gave their all to make sure that Dokja wouldn''t bear the pain alone.


    Eventually, the tests lessened on the fourth day of treatment, as one of the suppressors that were administered was found to be effective in managing Dokja''s pheromones. It was great progress as Dokja didn''t show any adverse reactions with the said medication.


    Dokja and his companions saw the signs, it looks like his discharge from the hospital draws near.


    ***


    It was now 9:21 AM, Wednesday, February 22nd at Yonsei.


    Kim Dokja took deep breaths while his attending doctor examined his torso.


    "It looks like your body''s stabilizing with the help of the suppressant." The doctor breathes out a sigh of relief as he inspects Kim Dokja''s physical state, his stethoscope smooths along Dokja''s back as the doctor listens to his pulse and breathing.


    "We can proceed with the last leg of the exam this afternoon as there are no complications observed in the last 48 hours." The doctor then sets aside his stethoscope and logs Dokja''s vitals on his tablet. "We can now completely rule out the after-effects of the meds since your motor skills, blood circulation and your pheromone levels are normal." He taps the screen as he logs additional notes on Dokja''s profile.


    "A nurse will come to collect some blood samples later around 10:00 AM" The doctor flicks the screen. "After that, you''ll be seeing a specialist this afternoon to get an ultrasound." The doctor glances at the patient timetable on the tablet. "The ultrasound should be anytime between 12:00 to 1:00 PM." He then saves the notes and locks the screen.


    "Do you have any questions, Patient Kim?" The doctor looks at Dokja inquisitively.


    Dokja scratches his head as he recollected the words that the school doctor mentioned to him prior to his admission. "Is it true that it would take days or weeks before I''m issued a prescription for my constitution?"


    The doctor rubs his chin. "It depends on the patient, some may take just a few hours or days while severe cases take weeks. Recessive Omega pheromones are tricky to manage. However, the medication you''ve been taking for the past two days was proven effective. Hopefully, once we''ve analysed your latest blood results, we''ll be able to determine if you''ll require either an injectable or oral medication." A warm, assuring smile forms on the doctor''s face.


    "The prescription shall be provided to you once your final blood results arrive."


    "May I ask what is the purpose of the ultrasound?" Jihye interjects as she gazes at the doctor. "Is this related to Dokja''s constitution?"


    "Correct. Normally, Omegas at birth do not need to take the ultrasound test as their uterus would mature during puberty, however since Patient Kim here manifested late due to his recessive gender, we need to check if his reproductive organs are developing properly."


    "I see¡­ would that affect Dokja''s confinement?" Jihye raises an eyebrow.


    "It won''t, but the ultrasound''s results would help us determine what should be the best type of supplements and contraceptives to recommend for Patient Kim once he gets discharged."


    ''Contraceptives¡­ I guess I need to be careful too since Jonghyuk is an Alpha.'' Dokja remembers the book he read about Omega physiology a few days ago.


    ???


    Recessive Omegas were rare in society, out of all the genders, they were notorious for their erratic heat cycles and strong pheromones. It was known that Betas and normal Omega''s fertility rates fared better than the Recessives. Their pheromones were also tricky to deal with as most Recessives found it difficult to acquire an inhibitor or a suppressor drug that matched their constitution.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    In most cases, Recessives are forced to pair up with an Alpha to manage their estrus. Recessives were a prized commodity in the black market auctions and were highly desired by Alphas due to their extremely low fertility rate. Recessives were perfect to use as a an Alpha''s human fleshlight during their rut.


    It is common knowledge that Omega''s pheromones can influence an Alpha''s libido.


    According to the book, Alphas instinctively release their scent whenever they get near Omegas, causing attraction towards the opposing gender and thus creating a pair system. Alphas can also imprint their scent on their mate during their rut cycle to suppress or conceal their pheromones. It was a natural mechanism for reproduction for the survival of their brood.


    Dominant Alphas were equally rare like Recessives. They are known to possess a greater pheromone scent and a higher virility rate. Their scent could trigger an Omega''s heat and also intimidate other genders. It was recommended that Betas and unpaired Omegas stay clear of Dominants as their libido exceeds normal Alphas during their rut cycle.


    ???


    Dokja realised how much effort Jonghyuk did in order to restrain himself. He recollects Jonghyuk ingesting a multitude of supplementary pills every night after eating dinner just to manage his pheromones.


    "The tests due today are straightforward as we''ll analyse the efficacy of the medication. Once your results come in positive, we''ll provide the prescription and then we can process your discharge, Patient Kim." The doctor lets out a sigh of relief.


    "Things are looking good for you. Hopefully, you won''t need to wait that long, your previous test results came back good too." The doctor pats Dokja''s back. "Your final results should be available later, I''ll drop by before 5 PM to let you know, Patient Kim."


    The doctor fixes his coat as he prepares to leave. "I''ll be resuming my rounds now. Should you need assistance, don''t hesitate to notify the nurse station." The doctor bows and leaves the room.


    "You''ve heard the doctor, Dokja! You''re going to get discharged soon!" Jihye wraps her arms around Dokja''s, hugging him tightly. "If your results turn out good, then you can be discharged later!"


    "N-noona! I c-can''t breathe!" Dokja winces as Jihye clung on his neck.


    "Oops! Sorry, my bad." Jihye releases her hold. "But hey, at least, when you get out, we''re going to be roommates soon!"


    Dokja raises his eyebrows. "Wait, noona¡­ what do you mean by roommates?"


    "Didn''t Captain inform you about his state?" Jihye''s grin flattens and the mood in the room darkens.


    "His state? Why? Is something wrong with Jonghyuk?" Dokja''s irises dilates in shock, his hand reaches out to grip Jihye''s shirt. "Is he in danger? Or is he in trouble?" His voice trembled in panic.


    "Well¡­ about that Dokja..." Jihye groans.


    "Tell me!" Tears swell from Dokja''s eyes. They were full of anxiety.


    ''God damn it, Captain! Why didn''t you come clean to Dokja about your rut.'' Jihye''s brows arches as she contemplates on how to explain the situation to Dokja.


    Jihye strokes Dokja''s back to calm him down. "Don''t worry! Captain''s fine! He''s just at home resting, Dokja!"


    "How can you be sure? I¡­ I¡­ I''ve been sending him messages of thanks ever since my birthday, but he never responded! What if something bad ha-"


    "Relax!" Jihye cups Dokja''s cheeks with both of her hands and sighs.


    "He''s just in a rut."


    ***


    A heavy scent of pheromones engulfed Yoo Jonghyuk''s room. Despite the afternoon sun beaming outside the windows, the space inside remained dark as the curtains were shut to block out the sunlight.


    "Fuck¡­ Why is my body still like this?  Ugh¡­ Haah¡­"


    Jonghyuk was lying down and sprawled on his bed. His body felt heavy and feverish, his warm breaths were short and every time he tried to move, body pain would follow. He had been sweating buckets since his rut started and opted to lie down half-naked in his underwear to cool himself.


    It was the price he paid after saving Dokja a week ago. Jonghyuk had overdosed on inhibitors during his search for Dokja. His Alpha instincts and his pheromones raged inside his body, causing pain and discomfort.


    "Shit! Ugh¡­ Haaahh¡­"


    Jonghyuk heaves himself from the bed, his body was terribly weak, he had been skipping meals every other day. After all, the pain prevented him from performing his daily chores and tasks. He then leaves his room and trudges to the kitchen to grab food, as his body was in dire need of sustenance. Jonghyuk remembered the boxed meals he left for Dokja.


    He felt fortunate as Dokja managed to transfer the rest of the meals to the freezer before he left. Jonghyuk was relieved that he wouldn''t have to inconvenience anyone during his rut.


    He takes out one of the meals with a label of tteok-bokki and chucks it to the microwave to thaw. Afterwards, he takes it out and gobbles the morsels with his bare hands, his fingers and cheeks got stained with gochujang. Once he emptied the container, he hurled it into the sink along with the rest of the meal boxes he had finished from the previous days.


    ''I''ll tidy up once my body''s back to normal.''


    He groaned as he saw the accumulation of dirty dishes on the kitchen sink, he briefly opened the faucet to wash his hands and face. His chin felt prickly as his stubble had grown.


    ''I need to wash after this. I feel so filthy.'' He lathers soap on his hands and cheeks to remove the residual sauce on his face. ''My body should be back to normal in a few days¡­ the last cycle took me a week.''


    Jonghyuk recalls the news of Dokja''s confinement, Jihye had notified him yesterday via SMS that Dokja''s treatment was progressing well. She estimates that Dokja would be back before the end of the week.


    ''I''ll leave him to those two¡­ Jihye and Namwoon will probably take care of him well.''


    He glances at the calendar on the fridge to take note of the date before staggering back to his room to rest.


    ***


    Dokja had a sullen expression on his face as he rushed to arrange his luggage. He was stowing away his belongings inside a bulky duffle bag as Dokja received word from his doctor that his blood and ultrasound results returned normal.


    The doctor had recommended for his discharge tomorrow morning, however Dokja insisted and begged the doctor to permit him to leave a day in advance. Hence, it was decided that he would depart from Yonsei tonight. He gazes at the wall clock above the bed to check the time.


    It was 5:37 PM, there was less than an hour before his revised schedule of discharge.


    Dokja turns his attention at the small tote that was placed on the bed table. His doctor had given him an aftercare kit during his check-up earlier. It was an obligatory gift for completing the comprehensive exam without any issues. The bag contained books that discussed the Recessive Omega''s physiology as well as his prescribed medication and supplements.


    "Ah, I need to bring this with me." Dokja grabs the tote and shoves it inside the bag.


    When he spoke with Jihye earlier, Dokja had found out about Jonghyuk''s fragile state. It didn''t sit well with him and his anxiousness peaked. An exhausted sigh escapes from his mouth as he contemplates.


    ''Why didn''t Jonghyuk tell me? Am I not that reliable? Does he really lov-''


    His trail of thought was interrupted by the sound of the door opening behind him. It was Lee Jihye, sweat dripped from her face and she was short on breath. It looked like she ran.


    "Kim Dokja, what are you doing? Your discharge is scheduled for tomorrow! Why are-"


    "Noona¡­ I need to go home."


    Jihye''s jaws were agape. "It''s unsafe for you to be with Jonghyuk!" She grabs Dokja''s wrist and grips firmly. "Captain will inform us once he''s back to his normal self, you don''t have to-"


    "I''m aware!" Dokja tries to shake off from Jihye''s firm hold. "I¡­ I¡­ need to be by his side."


    "Dokja, don''t be brash. You''ve just recovered from treatment."


    "I''m his Fated!" Dokja musters his strength and shrugs off Jihye''s hand.


    "I need to be by Jonghyuk''s side."