That's good for you brother but right now there's something else on my mind.

Jason's gaze withdrew from his phone. He didn't open the message, but he got the gist of it from the notification pop up. Someone would have to make a trip soon. His irritation peaked. His rut was approaching, quite soon in fact.

Soon a male omega approached him. He knew this person... more accurately, he had been aware of this person's gaze since he stepped into the club. He didn't understand why his 'appointment' wanted to meet here but he came anyway. He made up his mind to get another companion; the current was becoming rather annoying to deal with. He looked down at the omega clinging to his arm. What's this about?

He gave a polite smile and leaned closer to listen to what he was saying.

"Wanna make a break for it?" He said breathlessly over the loud thumps of the speakers

Jason understood what was happening, but he was bored so he went along with it "Sure, what do you have in mind?"

"I've got a nice place not far from here, we could head there."

Jason gave the fellow a quick one over, slid his phone into his back pocket "Sure, let's go to your place."

The omega took him by the hand a led him away from the bar, across the dance floor and out the back.

Soon Jason was faced with a situation he had long suspected would happen. He was being robbed. There were five people in total not including the omega used to lure him out. Three alphas and two betas. One held a knife to his neck as he pushed him against the wall, demanding his watch, wallet and whatever other valuable possessions he had on his person.

I know I don't flaunt my pheromones but isn't this a bit much?

His mind explored the best way to handle the situation. Pheromone suppression was too much legal hassle; the government had been making moves to properly keep everyone in check and innocent passers-by might get hurt.

'Should I just beat the shit out of them? It would take the edge off a bit.'

He glanced down at the unfortunate alpha whose hands were now rudely patting his body, hoping to find some hidden spoils.

"What an idiot." Jason muttered under his breath.

"What?"

Before Jason could speak, a shout came from behind "Hey! You little shits!" The storm of wild roses rushed ahead of its owner, announcing his arrival "I thought I fucking told you to stop pulling this crap at my bar!" The owner of the voice and pheromones made a rather spectacular entrance, stomping unrestrainedly on the alpha closest to him before dishing out a punch to the beta standing close by. The group of miscreants did not hesitate to disperse after that.

"Did you lose anything?" He asked.

Jason glanced at his now bare left wrist "I guess he took my watch?" He answered indifferently.

"Oh..." The newcomer looked down sheepishly "...sorry for your loss, I guess."

"Hm."

He stepped forward suddenly, startling Jason as his nose sniffed around him "You're a dominant alpha..."

Well, that was a bit rude...

"Come with me."

Once again, Jason was led away by a strange... Omega. That's right, an omega without a pheromone patch, flaunting his pheromones all over the place.

'Isn't there a law against not using patches and suppressants?' He freed himself from the man's grasp "What are you trying to do?"

He looked stunned and a little hurt "I'm not with them." He said quickly.

Jason raised a brow "No, even if, what are you trying to do right now?'

The omega pulled on his earlobe, shifting his weight from one foot to another. Clearly, he was feeling impatient "I'm about to go into heat."

"Then get an inhibitor or something?"

He rolled his eyes "Spend it with me."

"Excuse me?!"

The omega reached into his pocket to pull out a piece of paper "My latest test report..." He explained as he unfolded the paper before handing it to him "...I'm clean."

"No, that's not the point." It was one of the issues, but clearly not the point.

"You were okay hooking up with that omega, that's how you ended up being robbed. Just come with me."

Jason scrutinized the person before him. In the light, he could clearly make out his features. He was tall, just a head or two shorter than himself, with lean but very toned muscles. Platinum blonde hair that didn't match his dark eyebrows, obviously not the real colour. If not for the smell of wild roses radiating wantonly from his body announcing to the world that this person right here was a dominant omega, he might have easily passed for an alpha. His eyes travelled down to the report held out in his face.

"Rosalein? That's an interesting name." His voice bellied his amusement.

"Just call me Lein." He shook the paper impatiently "Look, I'm clean. It's recent." A finger hovered over the date. It was dated three days back.

"You're right... I can see that you're clean." He could see a lot of other things too. Like his name, date of birth, address, blood type, pheromone class, identification number... Fuck! What is up with this fellow? Is this what 24-year-olds do? Just throw common sense away in exchange for a good time?

"Well?" Lein looked at him with expectant eyes as he folded up the report and tucked it into his pocket.

"Well... What?"

"Your report."

Jason frowned "Look here, I knew exactly what was going on when I followed-"

"Just fucking show it to me already."

Jason reached for his phone, with a few taps pulled out a document and waved his phone playfully in his face "I'm clean too."

This news delighted Lein. He grabbed Jason by the wrist, firmly so the man couldn't make an escape again and with quick feet, led him to a hotel. The check-in process was not without awkwardness but soon they were behind the door pressed firmly against each other. The impatient kisses swiftly evolved into pleasure filled gasps and delighted moans and shameless cries of mercy. In this way, Friday night became Sunday evening.

Lein had never felt so satisfied sober, who knew the random person he picked off the street would be a gem. He beamed at the man lying next to him, eyes filled with the sentiment of having found a treasure "Jay...." that's what he said to be called "...Should we meet up again, sometime?"

The question earned him a quizzical look before Jason rolled over and reached for his wallet on the bedside table. He pulled out a business card and handed it to Lein. Without any hesitation, Lein grabbed his phone, entered the number into his phone and saved it.

"Won't you read it?" Jason asked when he saw the card getting tossed aside.

"Nah, it's cool. I got your number." He jumped off the bed. He was a little weak, but he quickly steadied himself. A whole weekend of being at the mercy of a man like Jason would do that to a person but he was satisfied, it was rare for him to feel this content with just one person and sober at that too. He hummed a little tune as he got dressed. He was just a step away from the door.

"Hey." The voice was low, lower than normal, almost a growl.

Lein felt it then, he hadn't noticed it before but now that he did, he couldn't escape it. He was plunged deep into the sea. With the pressure around him growing heavier by the second, his already weak legs could barely hold him up. He sunk to his knees.

"Come here."

Lein gasped, with every breath he felt like his lungs were being filled with seawater. How did he do it? He spent the whole weekend with a dominant omega in heat, how is it that he did not even get a whiff of his pheromones until now? He had always believed he was sensitive about things like this.

Lein made several fruitless efforts to rise to his feet, eventually, he gave up "I can't stand." He complained.

"Then crawl."

Lein looked at him now, he was seated at the edge of the bed, slightly amused but cold eyes fixed on him. The man looked like he was watching a peasant far beneath him. It made his heart lurch forward in his chest. Lein had never had such a feeling. Sure, there had been a few alphas here and there who always kicked up a fuss about wanting to put him in his place and all that jazz, but this one was different. It was scary and a little... Exhilarating. He was curious, he wanted to know more about what this person offered, if it would be as exciting as promised so he crawled. He dragged his body, weighed down by the merciless pressure of the sea, to kneel in between the legs of the man before him, looking up to him as if to say, 'I'm here, what next?'

Jason chuckled. He reached out a hand to Lein's neck, caressing it sweetly as his hand trailed to the back of his neck, his fingers rewarding him with affectionate strokes along the way "Well done."

Lein shivered, both from his touch and his praise. He felt his fingers hover above his gland for a few seconds before his thumb rubbed against his ear. There was a light tug on his earlobe before Jason retracted his hand. Lein couldn't help but chase after his touch. An action that made Jason chuckle again.

"Open your mouth, show me your tongue."

Lein complied.

"How obedient." He remarked, giving a slight nod of approval. He pinched Lein's chin and raised his head higher "Trying to run off after having your fun?" He asked but didn't really intend to get an answer because now, he had his index and middle fingers rudely exploring the youth's mouth. He grabbed his tongue between the two fingers and leaned closer "I have a somewhat peculiar inclination; do you think you can handle it?"

His breath stilled for a few seconds before he nodded slowly.

Honestly, they both knew he would stay. That's just how Lein was, he was a thrill chaser and a slave to pleasure. After the weekend he had just experienced, there was an unspoken promise of something even more exciting to come and he wanted that.

Jason placed a light kiss on his cheek "You really are such a good kid, Rosalein." He whispered.

Lein usually hated when his full name was used but this time, it filled him with anticipation. His praise once again sent shivers down the poor boy's spine.

Five days. That is the length of Jason's rut.

That means for five days Lein was at his mercy, unable to take a step away from him for a second.

Lein's mind was blank during this time. He knew he was frequently cleaned and fed. Jason was every bit a considerable partner that anyone could dream of, he gave out praise and compliments without reservation. His constant whispers of approval could only spur one to work harder to please him. So Lein worked harder, because apparently, Lein loved to be praised, he didn't even know that about himself until now. The more he was praised, the harder he worked which earned him even more praise, so much it bothered on worship. Lein worked so hard he exhausted himself, this much was to be expected with a rutting alpha. Even more so, a dominant alpha.

The problem?

Lein lay in between the now useless sheets, he didn't have the strength to move even one finger. He couldn't tell what was happening around him because he couldn't see anything. He could hear Jason move about the room. He tried to wiggle towards the sound, but he lacked energy. He was utterly spent. He felt the bed next to him sink in as Jason climbed on to the bed. Soon he could see again because Jason finally undid the makeshift blindfold. The lights in the room were dimmed; he was glad for that much. Next the piece of cloth that was used to gag him came off, followed by the binds used to tie his arms behind his back.

"I'll clean you up." Jason declared, gathering Lein's numb body into his arms, he headed for the bathroom.

While he was being bathed, he heard someone come into the room, shuffled about for a while and made a quiet exit but he couldn't think too much of it. He couldn't think of anything. This was a novel experience for him. Sure, he had played before, but this was something completely different. It felt almost animalistic.

His gaze settled on the man kneeling next to the tub, focused on washing him clean.

"I ordered some food, ointment and new clothes. Painkillers too." He explained without prompt while inspecting his body. Satisfied, he instructed Lein to shut his eyes. He wiped his face, washed away the soap, wrapped him up in a bathrobe and picked him up in a swift, well-practiced motion and returned to the bedroom.

"Do you feel uncomfortable anywhere?" Jason asked as he lowered him onto the bed now covered in freshly laundered sheets.

Lein shook his head slowly in reply, it's not that he didn't feel uncomfortable, he did. All over in fact, he was so numb and so exhausted that he couldn't be bothered to point it out.

"I'll rub you down."

What followed was Lein being tossed about, pressed, fondled and caressed with ointment, not in a sexual way, it was merely a soothing massage, but it would be a lie to say he wasn't a little aroused. He was even surprised that he had the energy to be. He was also touched; he had never been cared for by any one of his partners to this extent.

Lein had a tattoo. It creeping vine running along the length of his spine, punctuated with fully blossoming roses at intervals with the last rose just below his pheromone gland.

It was rather appropriate for its owner, Jason thought so. He also seemed to really like it. Lein could tell this much because anytime he had his back to Jason, the other man couldn't help but kiss and bite it. Even now, during this very ambiguous massage Jason barely held back, stopping only when his phone rang.

"Excuse me." He muttered breathlessly before stepping away to take the call. Lein felt both regretful and grateful. Grateful because he definitely could not handle another bout of being bound and roughly manhandled in the sheets, regretful because, he kind of looked forward to another bout. He exhaled quietly.

Jason returned looking somewhat helpless as he sat next to Lein's limp body "I have to go now." He said that but made no move to leave instead, he leaned over and kissed him. The two were completely breathless, panting by the time he managed to pull away. Jason gazed at him with eyes full of affection "Rosalein..." He said his name like it was a treasure, a hand cupped his cheek, caressed his face "...you did good." The commendation was followed by a tug on his ear "Well done." With that, he reluctantly pushed himself off bed and began to dress up, trading in his earlier outfit for a crisp suit.

He leaned over to give Lein a light kiss, saying he would contact him soon before heading out the door.

After he left, Lein looked at the door for a long time without moving.

"Wow."

Hanzel HQ

Alexei looked from the pile of documents on his desk to the man that just walked into his office. He leaned casually into the swivel chair "You look refreshed. Good week?"

Jason nodded.

Alexei scrutinized him, pen in hand tapping rhythmically on the table "Deliver this documents to the Vice president." He declared to the secretary stationed on his left

The statement made Jason raise his brows in question.

"Sir?" Secretary Dawson leaned closer.

Alexei swept his hand across the table "All of them. I can't be bothered to look at it."

"O-okay sir."

With that, the mountain was reduced to a molehill and soon a flat land until every single folder was gone.

Jason watched the procession of four secretaries and assistants troop in and out of the office until the table was cleared with an amused glint in his eyes.

"Does secretary Jay have something to say in protest?" he jested, a personal joke that existed between the two.

Jason made his way to the now bare desk and took a seat, shaking his head as he suppressed a chuckle "I was only thinking that the VP, once again, has a lot on his plate."

"Indeed." Alexei gave the table three taps before tossing the pen aside "How was your rut?"

"Good."

"You reek of an omega."

"Yup..." Jason made no efforts to hide his recent entanglement. The recollection of the week past brought a small involuntary smile to his lips "...it was a good one."

Alexei snorted "That unfortunate fellow." He was well aware of his brother's peculiar tastes, it has almost gotten them into trouble one or two times but well... Thank the heavens for money "You didn't reply to any of my messages."

"I was clearly preoccupied."

"I'm so jealous."

"You can get a partner."

"I'll never be with an omega."

The brothers exchanged a glance, this conversation had happened many a times before.

Jason took a deep breath "If you really want a partner, it doesn't have to be an omega."

Alexei dismissed the comment with a wave of the hand. They both knew he wasn't serious about wanting a partner, maybe in the past but now, it was just something he said. "Someone needs to make a trip to XX country, if the acquisition is to the successful."

"Well, it definitely can't be the VP, he just got a shitload of work from you."

Alexei nodded in agreement "Indeed, he received quite the package. I'll go. You stay back and hold down the fort." He reached for the intercom, called Dawson and left instructions to prepare for the trip.

"Who will accompany you?"

"Dawson."

"Just him?"

"Still thinking about it."

"How long will it take?"

"A few months? Still unsure about the specifics." Alexei looked at his brother "It can't be that you want me to come back quickly so you'll have less work, could it?"

Jason held up his hands in surrender "That's not entirely true, I mean you are the president, and it is your job but I'm here to support you." Chuckling, he caught the pen full of malice that was aimed at him.

"I hate how you are in such a good mood right now."

"What can I say? I had a wonderful week."

There was a soft low, almost inaudible beep and then a light click before the door opened. Lein tucked the key card in his back pocket and hesitantly stepped into the room, glancing nervously around. The current hotel was several classes above the last one. He had done as he was instructed, receiving the key card and going into the room without knocking.

"You came?" Jason did little to hide his surprise, leaning lazily against the archway of the threshold with his arms crossed.

Lein stiffened, the man's voice alone awakened memories and desires that he had struggled to keep in check for the last two weeks. That's right, he did not hear a peep from Jason for two weeks, only to receive a text with a hotel address and instructions the day before yesterday. It left him a little resentful. "You asked me to come..." there was a tiny but obvious annoyance in his voice "…Should I not have come?"

"I honestly didn't think you would, seeing as you did not get in touch with me." Jason pushed himself off the wall and took measured steps until he stood in front of Lein "Are you upset?" He reached out a hand to cup his cheek, a thumb gently rubbing over Lein's lower lip "I got really busy."

As usual, Lein leaned into his touch "No... It's fine."

"Hm." Jason's free hand snaked around his waist and pulled him closer until they were firmly pressed against each other. Lein showed no resistance, rather he accepted every action with meekness and a little eagerness

"I missed you." Jason whispered, the hand that rested on the other's waist reached below to roughly grab his butt. He took a step or two towards the door, pushing Lein back until he was trapped firmly between his own body and the door. The hand that was only just caressing his cheek now gripped his jaw tightly "I thought you were going to contact me, isn't that right, Rosalein?" There was no change in the tone of his voice, no emotional fluctuation, it remained as smooth and even as ever.

Lein couldn't help but swallow "I didn't know if I should." He held onto Jason's arms for support, as he felt Jason push his knee between his legs and grind his lower body against his.

"Hm?" Jason gnawed on his lower lip for a second, before burying his head in the crook of his neck "So it's not that you didn't want to see me, but you were shy?" He asked, tightening the hand on his ass as though he wanted to merge their bodies into one.

Lein gasped in response to his actions. His body trembled in anticipation like he had been waiting for Jason his whole life. Truth be told, since he got his message, he desperately craved this moment. Jason was like water for his parched body. Everything Jason did seemed to satisfy a yearning he never knew he had.

Soon the air was filled with the sound of fabric rubbing furiously against each other, Lein’s shallow breaths, gasps for air and the smell of furiously blooming wild roses.

"Rosalein, do you want to spend tonight with me?" He asked even though they both knew that he would.

He nodded in response, and again, Lein allowed himself to be at Jason's mercy.

The meetings which happened once every two weeks became meeting every week until they were basically seeing each other every other day or every two days, naturally transitioning from meeting at the hotel to meeting at Jason's place. A nice apartment in an upscale neighborhood. Very chic.

On one such meeting, while they were lying in bed basking in post-coital bliss Jason suddenly put forth a proposition "Do you... do you want to move in with me?" They had been seeing each other, constantly for the better part of three months.

Lein shuffled closer "Sure." He replied without hesitation.

A little weary, Jason glanced at him "Do you understand what I'm asking? Like... Do you get what that means for our current relationship?"

Lein nodded "It means we'd be dating right?"

"Yea." Jason turned to the side to face him fully "And you're okay with that?"

"Sure." He leaned closer to kiss him.

A kiss Jason returned with a heart full of contentment.

While Jason was have a roll in the hay to celebrate his newly changed relationship status, his brother Alexei, who was currently in XX country on business, just received what could only be described as a well-deserved slap. To understand why this happened, we need to backtrack to five weeks ago.

Alexei arrived in XX country to begin the process of acquiring N foods, a brand that made supplements for alphas and omegas going through rut and heat. On the surface, it was presented as a cooperation, but everyone knew what happening. He had decided to deal with it in person as a sign of his sincerity and a show of good faith because it was an old and trusted brand. They had a good reputation and an established market, unfortunately, that was no longer enough to bring in profits. They needed a new image. New blood, if you will, and this is exactly where Hanzel came in. Hanzel bought up almost all the shares, the plan was to keep the name, inject funds, conduct a little restructuring and revitalize the image. If everything went smoothly, he would not be in this country for more than four months. It was a simple enough plan, he had done his part so why the fuck were the old fogeys who didn't know what was good for them dragging their feet. They turned one meeting into three and three conferences into an indefinite delegation; and a delegation into a dinner party and in this manner, Alexei had been here for two weeks and not even one paper had been signed.

Right now, he was seated at a table at one of such dinners.

He sighed inwardly, could these rotten bastards simply not see that their oh-so-precious company is on its last legs? Do they have the money for these useless dinners? If they did, why was he here buying their shit? Is that where the money came from?

This matter was made worse by the endless parade of omegas. Everyone up to their fifth cousin three times removed who had an omega in their family seemed to always know where he was and somehow stumble upon him by pure chance. To say he was losing his shit would be the understatement of the year, but he preserved. In business, one's enemy was only an enemy for the moment. No one could tell where future interests lie.

He gave Dawson a subtle glance and the man with his omega son in tow were quickly directed away. He pushed out his chair, made a quick excuse about needing to step away to make a call and made a quick break for the door with his other assistant on his heels. Who would have known that just beyond the trap that was just now evaded, laid yet another.

A rather 'clumsy' but very 'fragrant' omega 'tripped' over nothing and was plunged face first into his chest, along with her drink. He unconsciously reached out to keep her steady on her feet, but her legs seemed to be made of jelly because she kept leaning heavily against him. Impatient, he let her go and she tumbled to the ground with great ceremony. As if on cue, several others rushed at him with napkins and handkerchiefs and whatever the fuck they thought they could help with.

It became a total fiasco, so Alexei did what he thought was the best solution at the time. He made a quick break for it. Literally. He ran out the door, only to be chased down by the desperate pack hot on his heels.

He didn't look where he was going and frankly, he didn't care, he simply wanted to get away and somehow, ended up in a random convenience store.

"Excuse me."

He heard a soft tender voice and then a light tug on his suit. When Alexei faced the person that reached out to him, he felt his heart skip a beat. Maybe it was because the person in front of him was simply breathtaking or it was the sprint of life he just ran, who could say.

"Fuck!" He spat at the poor fellow "Did you really follow me all the way here?" He looked behind him to see if there were any others before returning his focus to the boy "Are you so desperate to throw yourself at me?"

Ethan could only grimace to show his displeasure as the other man continued to spit his unsavory words at him.

"Where are your parents? Why are they so eager to pimp out their kid? Honestly, omegas are so cheap, if your parents are doing something so foolish you should stop them by yourself rather than playing into it. Who would value a person who is eager to-"

"Excuse me!" His voice remained soft, but his annoyance was clear.

"-just keep selling your ass to the highest bidder."

And then, came the slap, accompanied by a look of utter disgust and finally, his mobile phone was shoved into his chest.

"You ran into me and dropped your phone." With one final look of disgust, Ethan turned on his heels and walked away.

"Yikes." Someone muttered.

Alexei turned towards the commenter, the store had a few people who had just witnessed the whole ordeal.

Alexei had never felt do embarrassed in his life.

Three days later, Alexei and Ethan had another encounter. It was pure serendipity.

Alexei needed a breather, just some fresh air away from the omega parades and fogeys who had no idea what was good for them. The ever-capable Dawson told him about a park. It was relatively private, somewhat hidden. All in all, not a bad place to relax. Heaven forbid that he actually leaves his hotel room and go to a bar or a restaurant, or even the gym. He doesn't know who the information broker was, but someone always seemed to know where he was going to be and when.

It was exhausting.

Anyway, he went to the park. A quick run, some fresh air and it's back to his room to stare at black figures on white background. After one round about the park, he was quite satisfied, so he decided on another round. It was halfway through the fourth round that he noticed someone seated on a bench in front of the artificial pond. He was seated very still, staring blankly at the water as if something was about to happen or maybe he was waiting for someone to show up. Alexei glanced around curiously, there were barely people around. In fact, the sky was getting dark and people were leaving. After a brief internal debate, he decided to strike up a conversation. He already got slapped, what's the worst that could happen? Regardless, he proceeded cautiously.

He knocked lightly on the back on the bench and gave small, very slight wave "Hi."

His sudden appearance startled Ethan, who immediately flinched and pulled away in defense.

It was a bit of an exaggeration, it’s not like he was that scary. Alexei furrowed his brows "Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you."

Hearing his apology, Ethan relaxed but said nothing.

Alexei took his silence as an invitation to stay. He leaned closer "Do you remember me?" He asked with a bright smile, index finger pointed to himself "You slapped me a few days back."

Ethan threw him a quizzical look.

Alexei briefly wondered if the other went about slapping people, as he showed no hints of recognizing him. At that thought, he quickly reached into his pocket and pulled out his phone "I bumped into you and dropped my phone, you were kind enough to bring it to me, but I said some unsavory things, and you slapped me."

"I know."

"Right... I would like to apologize for my behaviour that day. I was having an unpleasant time, and I took it out on you."

Ethan narrowed his pretty eyes "I'm not sorry for slapping you."

Chuckling, Alexei took a seat by his side "I didn't expect you to be." Flashing a bright smile, he extended his free hand out for a handshake "I'm Alex."

Ethan pressed his lips together, clearly unhappy with what was happening. His eyes travelled from the hand held out to him to the face of the weird man and back to his hand. "Ethan." He said quickly, slim delicate fingers reached out and took a very light hold of the tip of Alexei’s fingers for a very brief ‘handshake’, before covertly shuffling away from him.

Alexei retrieved his hand, stared at it for a second and chuckled again. He was certain that the contact did not last even a second "Are you waiting for someone?"

"No."

"Okay. I'm off." He jumped to his feet, his action caused Ethan to stiffen again and lean away from him. Alexei frowned but what could he do, when you not wanted, you're not wanted. He continued his run.

Another week passed, and finally the acquisition was starting to take form. It was time to get to work or at least he would be working if one of the executives did his damn job and stopped chasing after your asses. Now the executive in question had been admitted in the hospital, his spouse found out about his repeated infidelity and tried to run him over. Actually, the plot to flatten him was only half successful as the man was still alive. Unfortunately, he broke his leg.

Alexei let out a long slow exhale to ease his frustration. Everyone on this floor of the hospital could hear their argument. The spouse's cries of betrayal and demand for a divorce as well as the executive's shameless and desperate begging.

"Dawson..." Alexei put a firm hand on the man's shoulder "...I know you will do a good job."

"Sir, please..." Dawson begged in a small voice. He also had no intention to play mediator for the pair "...please." each word carried more desperation than the last "please, don't do this to me."

"Good man." Unmoved by the man's begging, Alexei turned around and made a quick escape to the lift.

Pleased with his successful escape, he made way to a nearby cafe to sit and wait for Dawson's call. Maybe look over the menu, grab a little snack. It was a chilly day, hot cocoa would suffice. He sighed in contentment, life is good when you have a secretary like Dawson. Everyone should have a Dawson. He contemplated how he to reward the fellow for his efforts; perhaps a bonus, or a car or maybe even nice apartment. Hanzel had acquired some nice real estate recently. Dawson was a diligent worker and he deserved it. His mind was still mulling over the options when he happened upon a rather unpleasant scene.

Ethan was being cornered by a rather persistent fellow.

How could he tell that Ethan didn't want to be there? Well, he had the same expression as when he approached him in the park. Those soft looking lips were pressed into a thin line, and his eyes were darting about like he was in search for the nearest exit. He watched Ethan curl up as his shuffled away from the source of his annoyance, but the other man seemed to have no idea that he was unwelcome and if he did, he simply ignored it.

He clicked his tongue, it’s just one thing or another in this city. "Ethan!" He called out, waving at them as he took very wide steps. Eager to cover the distance between them quickly "Hi."

Ethan was simply shocked by the sudden show of familiarity.

Taking advantage of the brief moment of confusion, Alexei inserted himself between the pair, wrapped an arm around Ethan's shoulder and begun to lead him away. Ethan stiffened under his touch, but he ignored that and pressed on, completely ignoring the other man's existence.

"Hey, he's with me!"

Alexei ignored him.

Ethan, though a little uncomfortable, allowed himself to be led away.

Angered, the man reached out to grab Alexei's shoulder only to be enveloped in an air of unexplained fear.

Alexei craned his neck, at an angle Ethan couldn't see, to glare at him. The previous bright and friendly facade completely disappeared, replaced with a look of pure hostility and contempt. He said nothing, just turned away and led Ethan into the cafe.

The pair were seated.

"Did I do something unnecessary?" Alexei asked after a few moments of awkward silence had passed between the two.

Ethan, whose gaze had been fixed on the table the whole time, finally looked at him. He shook his head slightly "No." He added quietly, as if worried he would not be understood.

"That's good. Do you have somewhere you need to be?"

He stayed unmoving for a moment and shook his head again.

Alexei sighed in resignation "You can leave if you don't want to be here. I'm not asking anything of you in exchange."

"N-no. I'll stay."

"Are you worried that that person would be loitering around, waiting for you?"

This time he bit the inside of his lower lip, clearly uncomfortable with the idea but said nothing.

"Then would you like me to walk you back?"

Ethan's eyes brightened at the thought, but they quickly dimmed. Even though he didn't want to go back alone, he couldn't bring himself to say anything.

"I'll take responsibility for one-sidedly involving myself in your matter and accompany you to wherever you have to go. I'm a very responsible adult in that way."

Hearing that, Ethan's tensed frame relaxed a little and he even managed to show a tiny shy smile.

This made Alexei very happy, so happy, that he decided there and then to change Dawson's yearend bonus to a raise. He pushed the menu closer to him, eyes full of encouragement "If it's fine with you, shall we share a meal?"

Alexei was more than satisfied with the day's event. He learned a few new things about his new friend. For starters, he was a 22 year old graphic designer who worked in a small-sized company set up in one of the office complexes nearby. His harasser, although not someone he knows personally, is someone he sees daily on the way to lunch so, being the very responsible adult that he was, he made the commitment to accompany him to and from lunch every day until he was no longer concerned about the man.

Nothing suspicious, just an adult doing what every adult should do.

"Dawson!" He exclaimed, heart full of cheer as he made his way to the car "My good man, how was it?"

"It was exhausting sir." He wailed, holding open the door for him "I almost got beat up."

Alexei nodded "This is why one must never interfere in the affairs of couples."

"Sir!" He was filled with righteous indignation, would he even be there if his boss did not so callously dump the assignment on him?

"Rejoice..." He gave him an encouraging pat on the back "... I've decided you deserve a raise." He added before quickly getting into the car.

Dawson couldn't hardly contain his joy "Thank you sir!". His indignation faded away as quickly as one could blink as he got into the car as well.

Being a man true to his word, Alexei showed up right on time to accompany Ethan to lunch every day. Eventually, getting closer, largely in part due to Alexei's own effort. Initially, Ethan was far too standoffish, so much it was off-putting but as the days went by, his aloofness melted into what one could consider a cute and shy reservation.

Alexei had the time to accompany him little qualm, which was entirely on Dawson as he would disappear, regardless of where he was expected to be or do. The acquisition, by all indicators, was clearly dragged out for as long as possible. He had a vague idea of their intended goal, but he didn't mind. No matter what they did, he would win anyway.

"D-do you like sweet things?"

Alexei's attention returned to the young lad seated opposite him. He enjoyed watching Ethan struggle to open up and get close to him. It felt fulfilling, like a gardener who finally gets to see a stubborn willful flower blossom.

"I do." He answered with a reassuring smile "Is that strange?'

Ethan shook his head hurriedly "N-no. I think it's nice, not a lot-lot of al-alphas are open about liking sweet... sweet things." His voice occasionally dropped a few registers below its normal volume, almost disappearing at the end of the sentence.

Alexei chuckled. This was probably the longest sentence he had ever spoken to him. He knew Ethan didn't have a stutter, when they were still unfamiliar, he spoke clearly now he was just shy. It was…. endearing "I like sweet things. I like cute things too."

"I... I can design a character for you."

Alexei leaned in "Really?” he asked in a hushed tone “Will it be cute?"

He nodded eagerly "As a-a thank you... for-for always accompanying me."

"Will you make it a sticker?"

"N-no... a phone case… maybe"

Alexei held out his phone, making a show of examining his current phone case. "Hmm... This is a bit bland, but does this mean that anytime I see my phone I get to think of Ethan?"

His eyes widened and his ears grew hotter as the implication of what Alexei had just said dawned on him. He wrapped his fingers tightly around the coffee mug "I didn't mean it like that." His voice carried a dire need to be properly understood "I just..." He stopped when he saw the obvious look of amusement on Alexei's face "Don't tease me!". He pouted and begun to fan his heated face with his hands.

Alexei snickered thinking the other was simply too cute.

"Very well then, I shall eagerly await this gift of gratitude."

It had been ten days since this odd arrangement began, the harasser who made it happen had actually stopped making an appearance some five days ago or so but neither said anything about it. They seemed to share a tacit agreement and simply enjoyed each other's company.

"In a few days, I will have to return home..." Alexei started after some thought.

Ethan's face fell, the news made me just a little bit unhappy. Only just a little...

Alexei watched him closely as Ethan made series of very interesting facial expressions ranging from disappointment and sadness to curiosity "I'll be back soon, I'm sure it will takes a week or two. I'll try to text you every day, okay?"

"Oh..." His eyes brightened and h suppressed a small smile "I'll wait for it."

He was very obviously happy now. He laughed to himself, thinking how easily it was to read him.

Acquired glandular hypoplasia: a condition characterized by the underdevelopment of one's pheromone gland due to a cause does not present from one’s birth such as the exposure to certain drugs, trauma, diseases or allergic reaction. Symptoms include gland atrophy, underdevelopment of secondary gender characteristics, little to no pheromone production and very low sensitivity to other's pheromones.

"There are still no changes?" Dr. Noelle's tone mirrored he dissatisfaction. Even though she had the results of his latest checkup in her hands, she still asked. It had been this way since Ethan became her patient. No treatment method was putting forth the desired outcome. She was frustrated, but she knew Ethan was even more frustrated and disappointed. She gave the boy a once over, he came to her when he was 20 years. His condition had been present for four years, treated for two. If there had been an effort to treat him earlier, his situation might have been more favourable, but there was no point in 'ifs'. When asked, he only said it was a reaction to some unbranded medication, and nothing more.

"How about we use another tactic..." She reached into her desk drawer for a bottle "... This is a new gland stimulant. It's stronger than the previous one and might make you feel some discomfort, a little lightheadedness, maybe some nausea but it's worth a try." She drew in a deep breath "Ethan, drugs can only do so much, but you have to take care of yourself too. Get proper rest, eat healthily, drink lots of water and keep your mood up."

He acknowledged her request, accepted the new medication gratefully and left her office. His next stop was another doctor's appointment in another building. He glanced at his phone to check the time and then hastened his pace.

The two-hour session started and progressed just like every other session Ethan had had. He would come in, sit down, fiddle with his clothes or his phone or bag for a few minutes; make small talk with his omega therapist and answer questions about his mood, what he was feeling, his plans, hopes and all that. The therapist, a much older omega by the name, Dr. Beck, with hair greying at the temples, always spoke kindly and dealt with him patiently.

Today, the session started out like a repeat of the previous sessions until Dr. Beck asked about the man with whom Ethan has just became acquainted with. A few sessions back, Ethan had offhandedly mentioned that he met a weird recessive alpha that annoyed him so much that he couldn't help but give him a slap across the face. Later, they met at a park and at some point, became properly acquainted. Every time, this man was brought up, Ethan's countenance would immediately brighten, and he would show a very rare shy side that could be best described as endearing.

"Alex travelled home for some work but he's coming back. He sent a message that he'll be back soon."

"Are you looking forward to his return?"

He nodded shyly. "I'm making him a gift..." He fiddled mindlessly with the hem of his shirt "...but I don't know what to draw. He said he likes cute things, but I don't know..."

"How about an animal?"

"Too many...” he shook his head, he had given the idea some thought “…too many."

"Hmm..." Beck feigned a deep deliberation "...how about a cartoon version of him? That would be cute, don't you think so?"

Ethan met his gaze for a brief second before staring at the floor with a pout "If I draw a cartoon about us, he's going to tease me about it." There was a clear sense of grievance in his voice "He's always teasing me."

"What did he tease you about?"

"He said... That I wanted to give him a phone case so he would think of me when he uses his phone." He answered in a tiny voice.

"Is that true? Do you want him to think about you?"

"M-maybe...just...a... little." His answer was given in almost a whisper.

"You look like shit." Jason commented with great nonchalance as he took a seat by Alexei's bedside.

"Hmm... This time it hurt like a bitch." Alexei answered mindlessly with his full attention on his phone.

It was always like this with his rut, he had to pass them under heavy sedation, while pheromone fluids would be extracted from his gland twice every day, early morning and night, for almost a week. The whole procedure always left him groggy and exhausted, not to mention how much it hurt when he woke up.

"What are you looking at?" Jason asked, stealing a peek at the screen, not that he needed to because Alexei proudly showed him the screen.

"It's cute right?" He asked with a wide smile "The little beta drew this."

Jason glanced at the cartoon "Sure." His answer, non-committal.

"Are you jealous?"

Jason snorted, watched his brother tap away happily on his phone and finally decided to ask "Hey, do you like this kid or are you messing around?"

"What?" Alexei's attention was still firmly attached to whatever was displayed on his screen "Why would you think I'm messing around?"

"So, you like him? What would happen after the acquisition?"

He put away his phone, leaning lethargically against the pillows "I like him but it's not like that. It's like when an unfriendly kitten rubs against you or lets you hold it or something like that."

"Unbelievable, you think he's a cat?"

"No. I think he's very cute."

"Cats are cute."

"He's much cuter." He grabbed his phone "I'll show you, his picture."

"I have seen his picture." Jason pinched the bridge of his nose as a brief montage of all the pictures of Ethan he had previously received flashed in his mind "I have seen a lot of his pictures."

"You haven't seen this one."

"I don't want to."

"Come on, he's very cute. It will cleanse your wicked soul."

Jason rolled his eyes and hopped to his feet "I like my wicked soul. I just came to see if you were still alive, if you have the energy to drool over your sneak shots then I guess you're fine." He looked at the man in the hospital bed "Pervert." He muttered under his breath.

"I can hear you..." He glanced at him "You're already leaving? It hasn’t even been an hour."

"I need to pick up Rosalein, I don't like him driving his bike at night."

Alexei smirked "I'm surprised he's still driving it at all." He glanced at the wall clock "It's 3 a.m., what is he doing outside?"

"Work."

"He's still working at the bar? Haven't you been together for a few months?"

"Training takes a little time."

Alexei scoffed "Fucking psycho."

Jason headed for the door but not before throwing him the middle finger. He couldn't help but feel that Alexei was right though, the bike definitely had to go, it was too dangerous. His job too, the idea of Rosalein working as a bartender in such a distasteful bar left a very bitter taste in his mouth. Even if Lein could hold his own, he was still an omega and thar bar was always crawling with trash that should not be recycled. Maybe he could find a way to convince him to go back to school and get his degree or just bring him into Hanzel, at least he can better watch over him there but the problem was Rosalein is only obedient in bed, the moment he senses the conversation headed in a direction he doesn't like he would immediately run off. He had only just managed to convince him to put on the pheromone patch...

These were the thoughts in Jason's head when he pulled up to the bar, Rosalein was already waiting for him.

Jason scrunched his nose, he hated the smell of alcohol, cigarettes and that mish mash of pheromones Rosalein always had on him whenever he returned from the bar.

"Seat belt."

Lein complied and soon they were on the road.

"You didn't wear the pheromone patch." He could tell that much without taking a look, his pheromones were all over the place.

Lein reached for the back of his neck "It's uncomfortable and itchy."

"It's illegal, you know this and I've told you several times that you can't do that."

"What's the big deal?"

"I don't like it, the fact that my boyfriend just has his pheromones on display for everyone makes me very uncomfortable."

"You knew I was like this before we started dating." He grumbled.

Jason remained quiet, focusing solely on the road ahead. The rest of the drive was spent in heavy silence.

"Well, you're dating now, shouldn't something change?" Jason asked as soon as they got home.

"Jay, I said it fucking makes me uncomfortable."

"I'm uncomfortable too."

"Why are you being such a nag about it?"

"It's not nagging, it common sense and basic etiquette, Rosalein. You can't be squirting pheromones all over the place, it's obnoxious and illegal."

"Fuck!" Lein screamed and stormed off.

Jason decided against following behind. It was always this way, when an issue was brought up, Lein would get defensive, throw a tantrum and storm off, sometimes leaving the house completely, just to show up four or five days later and act like nothing happened. Times like these had him wondering if it was worth it taking their relationship seriously, even if the sex was… they had good chemistry. But he genuinely liked him and wanted him to have a more stable life. It was time for a change in strategy. If a conversation didn’t work, maybe action will?

The days that followed were quite unpleasant for Lein.

had changed.

No, more like he simply stopped caring, it was like the person he had known was an illusion. The sudden indifference was jolting, and this indifference spilled into their bedroom.

Lein practically had to go on his knees and beg Jason to touch him and even then, the man was noncommittal and always seemed bored. At first, Lein was annoyed, then he became anxious and finally asked about it.

"Isn't this what you wanted?" Jason replied.

"What?"

"You want to keep living like you're single, so why should I act like I have a boyfriend."

Needless to say, Lein was pissed. He stormed out only to return after one night with an apology. An apology that barely earned him a glance from the other man. He decided it was time to make a concession, it's just a fucking patch, how hard could it be but even then, Jason remained unmoved.

He snorted "I don't need your false show of compromise. Next week, you'll turn around and take it off."

This much was true, Jason knew him well enough. The pair remained in a state of heightened tension until Lein eventually broke down and cornered him.  "I'll wear it so can you stop now?" he asked, tightly gripping the other's shirt with trembling hands.

Jason's eyes narrowed as he showed a displeased expression "Is this because of the sex? If that's the case, we can just go back to how we were."

"It's not that..."

"I know that this is your first relationship so it's difficult for you. So may-" the rest of the sentence was lost in a kiss filled with Lein's despair. Jason peeled him away from his body "Rosalein..." He swallowed his words when he saw Lein's hurt expression "...fine." He walked briskly to the bathroom and returned with a box of pheromone patches "These are from Hanzel..." He announced, placing the box on the coffee table "... it's porous, so it's breathable and it's tailored to dominants like yourself. It blends with skin too. You have to wear them, I'll check and if you don't, I will become very upset."

Lein lunged at him, wrapping both arms and legs around his body.

"I'm still upset with you, get down."

Lein shook his head.

Jason sighed helplessly and shuffled to a couch "Were you that worried?"

"It was scary. I woke up and you were different. I didn't know what to do."

Jason said nothing but kissed him instead, it started out kind and gentle only to grow hungry and rough. He put his hands to work and soon enough, Lein had been stripped bare while he himself remained fully clothed.

Lein could barely hold himself back. It was only for a few days, but it was too long. He touched himself, shamelessly. Wantonly. One hand roamed over his own body tugging on his nipples and fingering himself, while the other took his member and stroked it fiercely as he grinded himself against Jason's partially erect member. He called out for him, repeatedly, burying his face in the crook of the other's neck to get just a whiff of his scent as he pleasured himself greedily to the anticipation of what was to come until he found release, collapsing into the man's chest. Jason had always been a different kind of high for him, the kind that satisfied both his body and his heart.

"It seems you don't need me very much."

Jason's voice pulled him out of his reverie. Lein had never been one to be embarrassed about sex, but he couldn't help but feel ashamed. Here he was, naked masturbating to climax to a man who was fully clothed and hardly sporting an erection. He wanted to crawl into a hole in the ground. He felt pathetic and Jason didn't seem to impressed either. In fact, he didn't have much of an expression, it was very difficult to tell what he was thinking. This made Lein want to flee.

Jason put a hand on his shoulder, putting some distance between them, an action Lein took as rejection. He panicked but soon understood what was expected of him when Jason’s thumb brushed over his lower lip before pressing against it. He dropped to his knees, hands moving as fast as possible. Every action reflected his eagerness to please his alpha before he lost his attention. If Lein had looked up, he would had seen Jason's wicked and calculating eyes watching him.

Jason placed both hands on his head and forced it down. There were no tender touches or sweet caresses, no endless whispers of praise for Rosalein's body or commendations for how well Rosalein was keeping up with him, just the sound of Lein gagging on him. Jason let his body loosen under the pleasure received as he stared up at the ceiling.

Training just took a little time…