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Taeyang was overwhelmed - he was beyond done with everything after he found out Dojoon had a mistress on the side. He felt lost and genuinely didn’t know what to do - he knew for a long time already that there was no real love between them - at least not on both sides.
Dojoon had married him for his company - to seem more family friendly, as his entire company concept was centered around family insurances. They had two children - his precious daughters Eunkyung and Jihye. Dojoon however stopped caring altogether when Jihye was born. ‘I need an Alpha son to be my heir!’ was what he said to Taeyang when they found out about Jihye’s gender. Despite his two daughters not having shown anything yet as they were too young, Dojoon clearly wasn’t satisfied.
The worst thing was that Taeyang couldn't divorce Dojoon. He was insistent on keeping his image clean - only if Taeyang left everything to Dojoon’s name, erasing his existence and those of their daughters altogether with a fake death. Taeyang knew he couldn’t do that to his daughters - the only reason he kept going. They were too young for this at six and three years old - and despite being broken beyond imagination, he couldn’t let his daughters break as well.
Taeyang couldn’t believe that the man he had loved so dearly would end up leaving an empty shell of him - one that only worked to keep his precious daughters safe. Nothing could’ve prepared 19 year old Taeyang for any of this - that he’d be nothing like the Omega he was at that time, nor what kind of Omega he wanted to become at 25.
He barely noticed the tears rolling down his cheeks - only after a tear hit his hand. He wiped his tears away quickly, looking around the café he was in with glassy eyes. He didn’t know why he came here out of all places - it was the place where he had his first date with Dojoon. Taeyang inhaled shakily, only looking up when a man sat down in front of him, holding out a tissue.
Taeyang’s eyebrows furrowed - he barely recognized any facial features throughout the tears. Before he could ask the stranger anything, the tissue was gently placed in his hand. Taeyang quickly wiped his tears away - trying his best to get rid of his runny nose as well. After looking at the man clearly, he realized that he didn’t know him at all.
“Thank you. Do I.. know you?”
“You don’t. I’m Shota, though. What’s your name?”
Shota smiled slightly, but Taeyang couldn’t quite find the strength to mirror his smile. He was puzzled by the kind action and didn’t know how to behave at all, as he wasn’t used to kindness anymore. He doesn’t think there was anyone this nice to him except the teachers when Taeyang brought and picked his daughters up. Anyone else treated him weirdly, or started yelling.
“Taeyang. Why are you doing this?”
“You look like you need company. No one should cry alone. Do you want to talk about it?”
Taeyang didn’t know how to react. On one hand, he’d love to jump at the opportunity of having someone listen to him for the first time in years. On the other hand, he wasn’t sure if it was right to tell a stranger his entire life story. He tried opening his mouth, but all that came out were broken sobs, as he shook his head before he could even realize. Dojoon would find out and threaten him, for sure.
Shota watched cautiously, handing Taeyang another tissue while frowning slightly. Taeyang took the tissue - thanking him between his pathetic sobs. Pathetic - that was what Taeyang is. Nothing more but a pathetic shell of an Omega - someone no one should have to deal with, someone beyond repair. Yet, Shota sat with him and watched him cautiously - he didn’t leave. Taeyang didn’t want to be irritated by Shota, but he was.
“Don’t bother asking. I told you, no one deserves to cry alone. If you tell me to leave, I’ll leave. If you don’t, I’ll stay with you until you stop crying. Until you have somewhere else to go, something else to do. No matter if you open up and tell me everything or not. I’ll stay.”
Taeyang was puzzled by Shota - they didn’t know each other, yet the only adult company he had in years was Shota. A man he had met a few minutes ago, purely out of kindness. Taeyang didn’t know what to say, the only thing coming out of his mouth were sobs, before he muffled them by crying into his hands. Taeyang’s long sleeves slithered down, yet Taeyang couldn’t be bothered. Usually he’d be careful, but Shota saw him crying, he could see his bruised arm as well.
Shota slid a card across the table - Taeyang doesn’t know when he pulled it out, but after hearing something he managed to tear his hands away. He took a look at the card, before looking at Shota - who simply nodded towards the card. Taeyang took a look at the card, seeing the words ‘divorce lawyer’ written on it. Taeyang bit his lip before quickly putting the card into his pocket.
“Thank you.”
“No problem. You seem like you need one. He’s the best in this area.”
For the first time, Taeyang managed to smile slightly. Shota mirrored his smile - carefully taking Taeyang’s hand. Despite being able to tell that Shota was an Alpha, the faint scent of an Omega he didn’t know felt comforting. He didn’t seem as bad as the one he was married to. Especially because he didn’t seem to be bothered by Taeyang.
“If you take on his help, tell him that you want to talk to Shota. He’ll give you my number, if you wish to have it. I believe in you.”
Taeyang smiled slightly - nodding before getting up. He bid his goodbyes to Shota after paying, leaving the café altogether. Maybe there was hope. Maybe there was someone as kind as Shota out there. Taeyang took a look at the card - reading the name quietly, before stuffing it back into the pocket of his jeans.
Hwang Intak.
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈
The last person Intak saw this afternoon looked tired - beyond tired, actually. His black hair was dishevelled, long and unkept. His clothes hung to his frame like a sorry excuse of a cover up, eyebags visible. Intak couldn’t brush off the sheer fear the man’s eyes emitted - nor the very faint scent of vanilla he could make out. The man’s eyes flickered around the room - scanning it, while playing with his fingers nervously. Intak waited for him to find words.
“Shota… told me to come here. I’m Taeyang. Park Taeyang.”
“Shota has been worried about you for the past two weeks. He asked me every day if you showed up.”
Intak quickly scribbled on a piece of paper before handing it to Taeyang. Taeyang reluctantly took the paper - before looking back at Intak. He knew about the man - Shota had told him everything he knew about Taeyang two weeks ago, how he hoped the company he offered would lure Taeyang into getting help. While Shota had described Taeyang’s appearance incredibly accurately, Intak was still shocked to see just how much Taeyang was barely holding on.
“It’s been two weeks?.. I didn’t notice. I’m sorry for worrying Shota.”
Taeyang’s eyes flickered around the room again - fixated on the computer Intak worked on. Intak quickly shut it down when he saw the fear in Taeyang’s eyes, wondering quietly what the Omega had gone through to look around like a deer trapped by its enemy - too weak to run away. Taeyang’s shoulders slumped slightly and Intak offered him a seat. He understood why Shota was all over the place, even trying to find Taeyang again.
“What can I do for you?”
“Will Dojoon find out?”
Intak stilled - he didn’t expect this question. The fear in Taeyang’s eyes still wasn’t quite gone, so he quickly turned his phone off and opened the window. The street was loud enough to be heard from the room - yet far enough away for nobody else to hear. Intak wondered what this Dojoon guy planted in Taeyang’s head to make him this nervous.
”No one can hear you except me now. Who is Dojoon?”
“Park Dojoon. My husband. He’s the CEO of Sunshine Family Insurances. He - he married me to get an Alpha son. I.. I found out he has a mistress, but he won’t let me end the marriage. To play good family for company stuff, to play a great father to Eunkyung and Jihye, when he ignores them at home and has them call him by name. He’s been distant ever since we knew about Jihye being a girl.”
Taeyang rambled, tears welling up in his eyes, while Intak scrambled to find an empty piece of paper. He settled on writing on the back of some different paper, quickly noting everything down he could remember. He carefully shoved a tissue box towards Taeyang, who took a long look at it before taking one.
“Let’s start slowly. It seems like a lot happened, right? We should start from the very beginning.”
“We were 16 when we first met in school. He was a popular kid, while I was shy and kept to myself. He approached me once because he thought I seemed like a good Omega. I should’ve sensed something was weird about him, but I didn’t. I was just so happy that someone showed interest in me, and somehow I fell in love. I was sure he loved me too, but looking back on it.. I think he never loved me at all. I was just a tool to get an Alpha son and play happy family with for his image.”
Intak furrowed his eyebrows as he watched Taeyang - he couldn’t quite believe that an Alpha like that existed nowadays. Taeyang cowered into himself - making himself small and Intak could tell he was used to being like this. Trying to not be seen. Trying to keep himself together, to not divert any attention to himself.
“When I was 18, he married me. I was unsure about being married so early, but he somehow talked into me that it was a good idea. He made me take his last name and I was too blinded by love to fight against it. I never wanted it. Shortly after I got pregnant with Eunkyung. He was excited, until he found out the gender. He only did the bare minimum in the pregnancy and I felt like I should’ve tried harder to create a son. I chose Eunkyung’s name alone. I also gave birth alone.”
Taeyang’s resolve crumbled and the tears Intak had been waiting for started spilling. He tried making himself even smaller, his quiet sobs drowned out by the noise from the street outside. Intak couldn’t help but feel a tinge in his heart - he had to get Taeyang out of this, no matter what. He seemed so broken, so vulnerable. There was nothing in his eyes left except sadness. Taeyang took a tissue before looking at the clock - freezing when he saw it.
“Shit. Shit, I have to pick Eunkyung and Jihye up. I’m sorry. I have to go.”
The panic Intak carefully tried erasing came back in an instant - Taeyang got up, looking like a deer caught in headlights. He took a look at Intak - then at his notes. Intak got up as well, walking up to Taeyang. He almost seemed like he was trying to flee - so Intak tried being careful.
“I can drive you there.”
“No! No, no! Dojoon would find out. He knows about everything. I shouldn’t- I shouldn’t have come here. He will find out!”
Intak stilled as Taeyang’s eyes started getting watery again. He was fondling the hem of his sleeve, shaking slightly as he looked at Intak. Intak’s heart ached at the sight in front of him - for the first time in years, he didn’t know what to do. How to act. Taeyang was like no one else he’s ever helped - they were either rich or needed someone powerful to get what they want, but he had never met someone as hurt as Taeyang.
“Come here again. I’ll lock the door, I’ll keep my window open. I’ll turn off every electronic device in this room. I’ll lock the paper into a safe, okay? You’re safe with me. I’ll get you out of there.”
“Can I- can I bring my daughters too if I need to?”
As Intak nodded, Taeyang’s eyes shimmered slightly. There was hope in his eyes - not a lot, but enough to satisfy Intak. Intak quickly opened the door for Taeyang - who smiled slightly at Intak before running out of the building. Intak watched, worry taking over. He had to be quick, he didn’t want Taeyang to live in fear any longer. Jiung quietly came up to him - confusion written all over his face.
“What happened to him?”
“I’m not sure yet. He only told me a little so far. But I’ll need your help to save him.”
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈
This time, Intak prepared the room for Taeyang’s arrival. Shota had called him the day before - relief evident in his voice when Intak was finally able to confirm that Taeyang had sought him out. Shota being so invested in the wellbeing of Taeyang caused Intak to be worried together with Shota - aside from being genuinely intrigued by the man. While Intak didn’t want to focus solely on beauty - he had two functioning eyes that could tell the Omega in front of him was the most beautiful man he’s ever seen.
Taeyang came in after a careful knock, shoulders less tense than the day before. Intak waited for Taeyang to look around and settle on the chair before taking the pencil in his hand. Intak’s eyes were focused on the other as his muscles visibly relaxed. He seemed like he finally had room to breathe again.
“Hello Taeyang. How are your daughters?”
“They’re.. doing alright.”
Intak watched as tears pooled in Taeyang’s eyes - leaning forward when he realized just how much the girls meant to Taeyang and how little Park Dojoon must’ve done as a father for Taeyang to react like this. Taeyang quickly took a tissue and wiped his forming tears away, inhaling shakily.
“The last thing you told me yesterday was you giving birth to Eunkyung alone. Do you want to start there?”
“When Eunkyung was little… she felt my stress. She screamed and cried a lot, I had a hard time consoling her. It was when Dojoon started letting his anger out on me - he didn’t yell as he knew it’d make Eunkyung cry more, but he started grabbing my arms as hard as he could. Or my thighs. Anything that was in reach. I bruised easily because I was barely taking care of myself… and it didn’t change. When Eunkyung was two years old… Dojoon started caring again. He told me that he needed an Alpha son as the heir. We should try again, I’ll give him a son and he’ll care for us again. I was still… blinded by love. I accepted it and we tried again. I yearned for the love and attention he gave me, I was so satisfied when he gave it to me. I thought everything would be alright. But then… we found out Jihye also was a girl. He was unhappy and started yelling at me. Told me to be ashamed of myself, made me hide and only appear to bring Eunkyung to kindergarten or for business events. Jihye was just as loud as Eunkyung when she was born and I also gave birth to her alone. Dojoon wouldn’t look at me for several months. Only to yell at me to shut Jihye up, or to grab me somewhere and make sure I was hurting.”
Taeyang’s eyes were filled with tears again as Intak carefully noted everything down - shaking his head slightly the more he heard of that excuse of an Alpha. Taeyang took another tissue and curled himself up, making himself as small as possible. His sobs echoed through the room as he tried comforting himself.
“I was so stupid. I should’ve behaved differently, but now I’m stuck and it’s all my fault.”
Intak got up after hearing Taeyang’s words - kneeling down in front of him. He tried looking at Taeyang, but Taeyang squeezed himself further into the chair. Intak watched as Taeyang sobbed before he held his hand out, waiting for Taeyang to react to him. Something inside of Intak broke as he saw the Omega cry - shaking from what possibly was fear.
“You weren’t at fault. None of this is your fault. He manipulated and used you. You’ll get out of this. I’ll make sure of that and I’ll make sure that you’ll be safe from him. He’ll pay for this.”
Taeyang looked up - wiping his tears away as he took a look at Intak’s hand. Intak watched as Taeyang slid off the chair - falling into Intak’s arms and hugging him tightly. Taeyang sobbed once again, whispering ‘Thank you’ over and over again, while Intak wrapped his arms around Taeyang as well.
“Why isn’t he letting you leave?”
“To keep his image up. He has to be the perfect father for the company and I’m part of his play. Eunkyung and Jihye are too. They’re only allowed to call him appa at company events, he forces them to call him that. At home he’s Dojoon, if he lets them talk to him at all. He probably has a mistress to get a son, but he won’t let me leave. The only way he’d let me leave would be through faking our deaths. I wouldn’t mind leaving my identity and everything else behind, but I can’t do that to Eunkyung and Jihye. They wouldn’t understand, they couldn’t do that. He said he knows everything, has his eyes and ears everywhere. He said he’ll know if I’m not faking the death well enough. He’ll know if I do anything I shouldn’t. I just.. Intak, please, don’t let him find out about this. Please help me. Please help my daughters.”
Intak carefully drew circles on Taeyang’s back while he cried - he didn’t care about his expensive suit or the way Taeyang clawed at him like he was the only lifeline he had access to. With each tear Taeyang spilled, Intak’s anger towards the useless Alpha grew. He couldn’t understand what made Dojoon believe that he could act like that towards Taeyang - act like that towards his own daughters.
“I’ll help you. You’re safe with me, Taeyang.”
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈
“You almost look like you’re trying to court Taeyang. Why are you getting children’s toys?”
Intak froze at Jiung’s statement - slowly turning away from the little table he placed a few toys on. Jiung stared right at the table behind him - before looking at Intak with his eyebrows raised. Intak cleared his voice before getting up, fixing his suit that didn’t need fixing at all. He tried to think of something, anything to retort Jiung’s claim.
“Well, I’ll need Taeyang’s daughters to tell me what they know as well. I’ll be more trustworthy with toys.”
“Intak, I saw you hug Taeyang. I don’t know what you’re telling yourself, but you’ve never been like that with any client. I’m just- I don’t want you to get hurt while bending yourself over backwards to protect Taeyang. He’s traumatized, abused - he was withheld from any friendly interaction with other adults. You don’t know how he feels towards you. He has to heal, you need to give him space to heal - but you seem like you’re falling for him. You’re not the most successful divorce lawyer Hwang Intak with him - you’re just Intak.”
Jiung’s face was serious - the minty scent getting stronger and slightly sour. Intak’s eyes flickered around the room as he took Jiung’s words to heart, sighing quietly. He knew what Jiung meant, with Taeyang his personal feelings took over. He could barely control himself while listening to the things Dojoon had done to Taeyang, but something else was under his skin.
“I know why you’re worried. But… there’s something different about Taeyang. Something is telling me to keep him close, keep him safe. I don’t know what it is or what I feel, but I can’t just treat him like any other client. I don’t think it’s because his reasons are so different from all my other clients, it’s something else.”
Intak ran his hand through his hair as he looked away from Jiung, eyes flickering through his office to avoid Jiung’s invading stare. Intak didn’t notice the way Jiung’s eyebrows furrowed, nor the way he started biting his lip as if deep in thought. Intak sighed before taking a final look at the table he set up for the girls - quickly putting colored pencils there too.
“You feel like you have to keep him safe, right? Does it feel like an instinct?”
“Huh? Kind of, yeah.”
Jiung crossed his arms while thinking some more, Intak watching him closely. The beta in front of him quickly ran towards Intak’s computer, typing something in so fast Intak could barely tell what was typed in. Intak stood still as he watched Jiung scroll, confusion taking over. What did Jiung have in mind so suddenly?
“It feels like an instinct. You can’t act rationally with him. You feel like you have to keep him safe. You’re making sure he feels safe no matter what. You’re making sure his daughters, whom you never met, feel safe as well. Taeyang opened up to you easily, despite being forced to keep quiet for so long. Right?”
“Yeah, I… guess so? I think that’s pretty accurate.”
“Taeyang’s your fated mate. At least that’s what makes the most sense to me. It explains your behavior the best.”
Intak stared at Jiung - who now stood up straight. Jiung easily challenged Intak’s stare, while Intak almost felt like his entire world was being rebuilt. He had heard about fated mates, he never thought they couldn’t exist, yet hearing that Taeyang probably was his fated mate was a lot. Intak couldn’t deny that Jiung most likely was right though.
“Intak? Fated mate? Who’s the unlucky person to get you for life?”
Both Jiung and Intak turned towards the figure in the door frame - Jongseob was leaning against it, a smirk tugging at his lips. Intak gulped as he continued trying to process the fact that Jiung was most likely right. Jiung on the other hand sighed loudly, going over to Jongseob to pull him inside before closing the door behind him.
“Jongseob, you seriously need to stop letting yourself in when you’re bored. You’re not exactly supposed to know so much as an outsider. Also, it’s a client of Intak. Who doesn’t exactly have the most harmless reasons for a divorce.”
“Jiung, you’re not making any sense. Scolding me just to tell me stuff about this mysterious soulmate of Intak in the end. Really?”
Intak watched as the two betas in front of him fought - throwing random words and accusations at each other. Intak furrowed his eyebrows before pushing the two betas apart, earning an irritated scoff from both of them. Intak looked both of them in the eyes before crossing his arms before his chest.
“You both should stop fighting over this. It’s nothing that needs to be discussed right now, especially since it doesn’t matter anyways. I can’t throw this at Taeyang out of nowhere. Jiung was right, I don’t know what he feels and I can’t force him to stay with me just because we’re fated mates. If he’s sick of Alphas, he’ll not want to be close with me after I get him out of there.”
“Wow, you seriously act like an Alpha who’s mated right now.”
Jongseob’s eyebrows were halfway up his forehead, while Intak tried his best to get rid of the urge to kick Jongseob out. Jiung on the other hand made this smug face, nodding as he looked at Intak. They’re testing his patience today, for sure. Intak sighed and took a step back, turning back to the table he decorated before Jiung came in.
“I’ll have to get Taeyang out of there before I even try to think about anything else.”
“But you already seem highly irritated though, for someone who hasn’t seen his fated mate for several days already”
“Jiung, it's better you start learning how to shut up when it matters most.”
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈
Intak rushed through the door of his office the second he was able to smell vanilla and roses faintly in the distance - Jiung watching him with furrowed eyebrows. A few seconds later, chatter was heard outside of the door and Shota opened it - for no one other than Taeyang. Two little girls held onto Taeyang’s hands - Intak assumed them to be his daughters, kneeling down in front of them with a smile before he could even properly register what was happening.
“Hello you two. You must be Eunkyung and Jihye, right?”
The two girls nodded in unison, carefully clinging to Taeyang’s legs as they looked at Intak. Intak smiled softly at the two, pointing at his office behind him. He turned slightly to make way for them in case they were brave enough, yet stayed in a way to keep both of them in his vision.
“I’m Intak. Your eomma told me a lot about you two already. If you want to, you can go into that room. I prepared some toys for you, I hope you’ll like them.”
Eunkyung was the first to crack a toothy smile at him - pulling Taeyang in the direction of Intak’s office. Intak quickly got up and smiled at Taeyang as he was pulled away by his daughters. When Taeyang disappeared into the office, Intak turned around to a puzzled Shota and a highly irritated Jiung.
“Did you smell him? You ran out of your office so fast before I could even hear something.”
“I- I did.”
“How? I’ve been next to Taeyang the entire time and I couldn’t even tell you what he smells like. It’s too weak.”
Intak furrowed his eyebrows as Jiung gasped - who now was quickly looking between Intak and the office. Shota seemed more confused as each second went by, looking between Jiung and Intak in hopes of getting a hint of what they were thinking about. Intak sighed, turning around to his office.
“I suspect that they’re fated mates. He acts weird around Taeyang. Special kind of weird.”
As Shota replied to Jiung with a quiet ‘Ohhh’, Intak disappeared into the office and closed the door behind him. Taeyang turned towards him and waved with a small smile, as Eunkyung and Jihye excitedly played with the toys. Intak’s heart stopped at the sight in front of him - aching in a way he hasn’t experienced before.
“Thank you for preparing this for them.”
“I have to make a good impression, after all.”
Intak smiled slightly as he sat down on the floor next to Taeyang, watching as the girls enjoyed playing with the toys. Eunkyung quietly drew something on a paper - while Jihye tried solving one of the jigsaw puzzles Intak bought. Jihye was looking at Intak from time to time, each time Intak caught her looking he smiled at her softly.
“Is Shota still here? I want to give him this.”
“You can go look, Eunkyung. If he’s not here, just give it to Jiung and tell him to keep it safe.”
Eunkyung looked at Taeyang - unsure if she should listen to what Intak said. Taeyang simply nodded, Intak watching as Eunkyung walked out of his office. He could hear Shota’s voice from his office - watching as Eunkyung ran up to him, excitedly talking to him. Intak turned back towards Jihye, smiling slightly as she looked at him again.
“Why are you wearing this and sitting with us? Dojoon says we can’t talk to him when he wears this.”
Intak took a look at his suit before looking back at Jihye, frowning slightly. Taeyang seemed surprised by Jihye’s confession - looking between her and Intak, seeming slightly worried. Intak sat up straight, watching as Eunkyung sat back down before turning back to Jihye. Intak tried his best to ignore the tug in his heart.
“I have to wear this suit to make adults look at me seriously. No matter if I wear this or not, I’d talk and sit with you though. This suit doesn’t change how I treat you. Any other clothing doesn’t change it either.”
Taeyang smiled slightly when Jihye looked at him - nodding at her, as if to confirm that Intak wasn’t telling any lies. Jihye smiled at him before continuing with the jigsaw puzzle she chose. Intak tried his best to not melt right on the spot, leaning grabbing a paper and a pen as well.
Eunkyung watched as Intak took the paper, giggling quietly when Intak drew a stick figure on the paper. Jihye stopped her jigsaw puzzle as well, walking around the table to look at Intak’s paper. Intak added another stick figure, and then another one. He gave them hair, drew grass and smiley faces. Taeyang leaned forward as well, watching over his shoulder.
“Why do you draw like this? It’s so silly!”
Intak smiled as Eunkyung giggled - Jihye quickly joining in. Eunkyung watched closely as Intak continued drawing - carefully adding a sun in the corner of Intak’s picture, smiling widely when Intak let her. Taeyang continued watching closely as well, while Intak finished coloring the picture together with Eunkyung.
“What did you draw, Intak?”
“I drew you, Eunkyung and your eomma. I want you to look like this with my help.”
Eunkyung quickly took the picture off the table - looking at Intak for a few seconds before adding a fourth stick figure. Taeyang watched, eyebrows furrowing in confusion. Intak let her draw, watching closely as Eunkyung added the stick figure. When Eunkyung finished coloring the stick figure, she started writing names over their heads.
“If you want us to look like this with your help, then you have to add yourself too. Silly Intak!”
“You’re right. How could I forget?”
Intak chuckled as he took the paper back, nodding slightly. Taeyang watched with a smile as Intak got up and took a bit of tape. He taped the picture to the door before sitting back down, watching as the girls tried out other toys Intak bought. For some reason, Intak’s heart felt at peace, seeing them like this. Seeing Taeyang with a smile on his face, instead of the usual tears Intak was faced with.
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈
Taeyang held Eunkyung's and Jihye's hands with his own as he looked around, waiting for someone to walk up to him. Taeyang was unsure about visiting Intak with his daughters, which was why Shota had always accompanied him. He had quickly trusted Shota after their first encounter and luckily Shota was kind enough to stay by his side the entire time.
Unfortunately for him, Shota couldn’t make it today. Instead he offered to send his mate and his friend, Keeho and Jongseob, whom they had briefly talked about before. It was inevitable - Eunkyung and Jihye quickly trusted Shota as well, asking a lot of questions about his life. Shota was nice and patient enough to answer every question, which helped Taeyang feel more at ease with having Keeho and Jongseob accompany them.
Taeyang looked up when he was able to smell cinnamon and apples - while Shota’s scent smelled like citrus and amber, there has always been a faint scent of cinnamon and apples lingering on him. It must have been Shota's mate that was close by. Taeyang looked around more attentively this time - smiling slightly when two men walked up to him.
“I’m Keeho, Shota’s mate. This is Jongseob. You must be Taeyang then, right?”
“Yes. This is Eunkyung, and that’s Jihye. Thank you for… accompanying us.”
Keeho quickly shook his head before kneeling down to be on eye level with Eunkyung and Jihye. He introduced himself again, asking a few questions that Taeyang couldn’t listen to attentively enough. Jongseob also introduced himself to the girls before they started walking to Intak’s office.
“You’ve been a big topic currently. Ever since Shota met you, he wouldn’t stop worrying about you. Intak does the same. I hope that helps you feel safe, as Intak really does try his best to help you.”
“I don’t want to worry anyone too much… I came this far, I should be able to hold out the last bit too.”
Keeho frowned slightly at Taeyang's words - not knowing what to say. Jongseob on the other hand directed his attention towards Eunkyung and Jihye, smiling at them slightly. They seemed to already like Jongseob as well, which made Taeyang feel at peace. Taeyang could feel the way they changed, too, in the presence of Shota and Intak.
“So, do you like visiting Intak? He bought you a lot of super cool toys, I saw that when I was there the last time. He never treats me like that!”
“Intak is so cool! He’s so much better than Dojoon. I wish he’d be with us all the time. He always does everything with us! Last time we went to a playground and Intak climbed with his suit still on!”
Jongseob chuckled at the image of Intak climbing on a playground in a suit while Eunkyung giggled. Taeyang frowned slightly as Eunkyung talked, unsure whether he could fulfill her wish of staying with Intak. Jongseob looked at Jihye this time, who had been rather quiet this entire time. She’s always been a little more shy than Eunkyung though, so Taeyang wasn’t surprised.
“How about you Jihye? Do you like visiting Intak?”
“Yes! He’s so much fun. He’s like all the appas in kindergarten. Can’t Intak be our appa?”
Taeyang’s eyes widened as he looked at Jihye - not sure what to answer. Jongseob blinked a few times while Keeho gasped softly. Taeyang stood still - kneeling down while trying to rack up an answer that wouldn’t disappoint the two girls in front of him. Yet, it felt like that was an impossible task to fulfill.
“I’m not sure, Jihye. We’d have to ask Intak first, but we can’t do that today. We’ll ask him somewhen else, alright?”
Jihye and Eunkyung nodded in unison as Taeyang smiled at them - standing up again and continuing the way to Intak’s office. Keeho and Jongseob looked at each other for a few seconds before following Taeyang and the girls. There was a mutual understanding between the two of them - clearly aware that this was something they’d tell Shota later.
When they arrived at Intak’s office, Eunkyung and Jihye immediately ran up to Jiung, hugging his legs tightly. Jiung chuckled before kneeling down, hugging the two girls properly and patting their heads. Taeyang watched with a smile while waiting for the girls to calm down and come back to him.
“Jiung, eomma said we can ask Intak to be our appa soon!”
“Ah really, Jihye? That sounds lovely, doesn’t it?”
Jihye nodded excitedly, while Taeyang tried to find an explanation for Jiung - but Jiung just shook his head and let go of Eunkyung and Jihye. Taeyang quickly walked up to the beta as the girls ran around, trying to think of words that’d explain it all. Unfortunately, he couldn’t find an explanation quick enough.
“You don’t have to explain yourself, it’s alright. It’s bound to happen. It’s obvious too.”
Taeyang couldn’t help but freeze at Jiung’s comment - what did he mean by it’s obvious? He wasn’t sure, but Keeho and Jongseob seemed to think of it similarly, as they giggled to themselves. Taeyang didn’t know what to do except sitting down next to Keeho and Jongseob, waiting for Intak to let them in.
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈
Intak was nervous when he smelled the faint vanilla and rose scent again - slowly emerging into the hallway, looking at Jiung. The beta didn’t pay much attention anymore when Intak came out of his office - he got used to Intak being able to smell Taeyang from further away. This time though, Intak seemed stressed.
Jiung didn’t get a chance to ask Intak about it - as Taeyang came inside shortly after, steering right for Intak. Intak carefully wrapped his arms around Taeyang, carefully combing his fingers through Taeyang’s hair while he felt his suit get wetter with each passing second. Taeyang was crying - but Intak didn’t know why.
It took a while before Taeyang was able to part from Intak, muttering a quiet greeting in Jiung’s direction before going inside Intak’s office. Intak followed after exchanging a quick look with Jiung - closing the door behind him. Taeyang sat on the chair once again, grabbing a tissue to wipe his tears away.
“What happened? Why are you crying?”
Taeyang quietly pulled the sleeves of his hoodie up - showing the bruises to Intak. Intak quickly looked at Taeyang’s arms, investigating them carefully to try to avoid hurting Taeyang more. He grabbed a digital camera - quietly taking pictures of Taeyang’s bruises as he tried his best to keep his anger inside.
“Is that every bruise? Or did you bruise somewhere else?”
“Can you show me? The more pictures I have of your bruises, the easier it’ll be for us to get you away from that man.”
Intak kneeled in front of Taeyang - carefully reaching his arm out to wipe a tear from Taeyang’s cheek. Taeyang leaned into Intak’s hand - carefully holding onto his wrist, as if to stop him from taking it away. Intak looked in the eyes of the Omega - they were still glassy, threatening to spill more tears.
Taeyang quietly leaned against Intak’s hand for a while longer - closing his eyes as more tears fell. Intak carefully wiped away every single tear that fell, until Taeyang stopped crying altogether and let go of Intak’s hand. Intak quietly pulled his arm back, watching as Taeyang lifted his hoodie up.
“There should be some on my waist. I’m not sure though, I didn’t want to look.”
Intak gulped as he saw Taeyang’s stomach - it was extremely bruised and Intak couldn’t even try and figure out how it all happened. Some of the bruises clearly were fresh, while some others were a bit older. The sheer amount of them terrified Intak, but he took pictures of them nonetheless.
“He’s a monster.”
“I know. But where will we go? I don’t have any knowledge. I didn’t work, I don’t think I could survive with Eunkyung and Jihye just like that.”
Taeyang let his hoodie fall when Intak finished taking pictures - pulling it down properly before pulling his pants down. Intak watched as more bruises got revealed - scattered all over Taeyang’s thighs. Intak couldn’t comprehend how Dojoon was so distant with their daughters, yet found enough opportunities to be frustrated and grab Taeyang wherever he desired.
“I’ll finish taking these pictures and serve the paperwork to Dojoon tomorrow. We’ll move you, Eunkyung and Jihye out as well. You can stay at my place.”
“What? I can’t do that - you’ve done enough already, I can’t invade your private space too now.”
Intak shook his head as he took pictures of Taeyang’s thighs, quickly helping Taeyang to get dressed after he finished taking the pictures. Intak placed the camera on his table before looking at Taeyang - who was now facing the floor. Intak carefully took one of Taeyang’s hands, drawing circles on it with his thumb.
“I want you to do that. I think you wouldn’t be safer anywhere else. The girls know me and I know them. You know me too. Unless you absolutely don’t want to out of fear, then I won’t move you in. But everything else won’t be an issue.”
“Wouldn’t that confuse Eunkyung and Jihye? I don’t want you to feel like you’re pressured into this, you know. You already did so much for me, for us.”
Taeyang looked up at Intak - his black hair framing his face perfectly, Intak decided right then and there. He quickly pulled Taeyang into a hug - drawing circles on his back this time. Taeyang relaxed a little in Intak’s arms, leaning against him. Intak continued drawing circles on Taeyang’s back, before quietly speaking once again.
“I know that Jihye asked to call me appa. I wouldn’t mind that, you know? You grew on me. I fell for you and Jiung suspects we’re even fated mates. I’m the only one who can smell you, even from far away. There’s nothing I’d want more than to bring you home. See you at all times, know you’re always safe. Unless you feel otherwise, I wouldn’t know what speaks against this arrangement.”
“You knew about it? You really want to be a father to them?”
Taeyang slowly pulled away - looking at Intak’s face. Intak nodded slowly, offering a small smile. Taeyang stared at Intak - a thousand thoughts rushing through him, all while Intak carefully took Taeyang’s hands in his own. Taeyang looked at their entwined hands - biting his lips slowly before looking back at Intak.
“If you don’t want to know anything about Alpha’s, I’ll help you find something and finance it for you. I won’t get you out there with nowhere to go, no matter what. Yours, Eunkyungs and Jihyes safety comes first. I’ll do whatever you’re asking me to do. If you don’t want this arrangement, then tell me.”
“I want this. I really do, Intak. Thank you.”
Intak smiled slightly at Taeyang’s words - watching as Taeyang carefully pulled his hands away. Intak let his arms fall to his sides, looking into Taeyang’s eyes. Taeyang caressed Intak’s cheeks, something the Alpha couldn’t resist leaning into. The Omega smiled slightly at the action, leaning in and pressing his lips on Intak’s.
Taeyang pulled Intak’s face closer when he reciprocated the kiss. Intak’s hands found their way towards Taeyang’s waist - carefully placed there to make sure Taeyang didn’t get hurt. Taeyang pulled away after a short while of them kissing, smiling at Intak. Intak quickly pressed a peck to Taeyang’s lips, before bringing his hand up and tucking a loose strand of hair behind Taeyang’s ear.
“I promise, I’ll never leave you. I’ll keep all three of you safe - always. It’s over now.”
Intak smiled slightly as Taeyang pulled him into another kiss - reciprocating that kiss as well. Taeyang hummed before pulling Intak into a hug - clinging to him as if he never wanted to let go again. Intak however didn’t mind, as he never wanted to let go either. He couldn’t help but smile even more when he could slowly smell Taeyang’s scent become stronger. Everything was going to be okay.
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈
While Eunkyung and Jihye were in school and kindergarten, Intak helped Taeyang move everything he needed into Intak’s house. He luckily already owned a large house - thanks to his parents being successful lawyers as well. Taeyang only took the bare minimum with them - as Intak had stayed up late into the night to make sure the apartment was ready for Taeyang and the girls.
He had gotten them beds, decorated their rooms as much as he could, while also making sure everything was safe for the two girls. He had moved furniture around and built new furniture. In a few hours he managed to redecorate the entire house on his own - even though he had to deal with only a few hours of sleep before he was able to help Taeyang move out. They left the papers for Dojoon on the table, before loading the last few things in the truck that Intak had rented out.
Intak and Taeyang quickly got into the truck and drove away, while Taeyang looked out of the window. He didn’t know what Intak’s house looked like - he had never been there before. He felt like a little kid again, not knowing what he should do and how he would continue. The life he knew - although it wasn’t enjoyable - was gone. There were new things he had to deal with - some of which he knew nothing about.
“I prepared the rooms for all three of you yesterday already. When we’re there you can look around, I’ll change if something isn’t fitting or I’ll go buy something if needed.”
Taeyang turned his head towards Intak - smiling slightly as he saw Intak in something other than a suit for the first time ever since they knew each other. Intak’s hair wasn’t styled and a little messy, beads of sweat dripping down his forehead. Taeyang took out a tissue and wiped the sweat off Intak’s face - who smiled as well now.
“I’m sure you did great. Would.. you mind if I stay in your room, though? I don’t know if I’d be at peace alone. Dojoon will probably harass me.”
“Anything you want. I prepared a room for you in case you needed space, but if you don’t want that, I’ll happily welcome you in my room. The girls too, if they can’t sleep alone either.”
Intak smiled at Taeyang before he parked in front of a house - one which Taeyang deemed way nicer than the modern apartment he had with Dojoon. It looked a bit older, but it seemed like a nice place and also had a garden - he was sure Eunkyung and Jihye would love it. After Intak successfully parked the car, Intak and Taeyang got out.
Taeyang was given a short tour around the house by Intak, tearing up slightly as he saw just how much work Intak put into making a comfortable space for all of them in just one evening. He quickly wiped the tears away - turning to Intak before hugging him and kissing his cheek. Intak chuckled and wrapped his arms around Taeyang as well.
“Thank you so much. You’re doing way too much for us, you know?”
“I’m not. I’m making sure to keep you happy and safe, something Dojoon failed to do. Also, you’re hugging me while I’m all sweaty and sticky. Maybe you should let go, unless you want to be drenched too.”
Intak chuckled as Taeyang squeezed him tighter - kissing Intak’s cheek once again. Intak carefully patted Taeyang’s back before they let go of each other, Taeyang intertwining their fingers before rushing Intak to the truck. They unloaded everything together, Intak insisting on carrying the heavier things alone so Taeyang wouldn’t get hurt.
After they had brought everything inside, both of them drove the truck away and returned as quickly as possible. They both took a shower - Taeyang waiting on the couch as Intak was still in the shower. For some reason, Intak had insisted on Taeyang going first, despite Intak being the one who worked harder that day.
Intak emerged from the bathroom dressed in grey sweatpants and a black shirt, sitting down next to Taeyang before ruffling his hair gently. Taeyang leaned against Intak, sighing quietly as he closed his eyes. Intak said nothing - his steady breathing enough to calm Taeyang down and feel safe. Intak’s scent of petrichor and eucalyptus only amplified the comfort he was providing Taeyang with.
“I’ll pick the girls up with you. We can go get ice cream with them, they’ll like that, right?”
“Wow, careful. Don’t make them love you more than me!”
Taeyang giggled as he looked at Intak - who chuckled in response. Taeyang smiled slightly before stealing a kiss from Intak - sighing quietly when Intak pulled him in again for a proper kiss. Taeyang pulled away after a while, smiling at Intak again. Intak pressed a kiss to Taeyang’s hair before getting up, holding his hand out to pull Taeyang up.
“Before we get ice cream we should probably stop by somewhere else for lunch. But before that, we’ll have to pick them up.”
Intak pulled Taeyang up when he took his hand, walking to the door to put his shoes on and grabbing his keys, as well as his wallet. They left when Taeyang was ready as well, walking next to each other. Intak smiled when Taeyang carefully took his hand, intertwining their fingers as he did so.
After a short while they arrived at Eunkyung’s school, picking her up. Eunkyung’s eyes lit up when she saw Intak - running up to him, straight into his arms. Taeyang smiled softly as Intak picked her up, hugging her just as tight as she hugged him. Eunkyung giggled quietly before letting go of Intak and looking at Taeyang.
“Eomma, why is Intak here? He’s not even wearing a suit! Is it a special day today?”
“Yes, it is. Let’s get Jihye first, alright? Then we’ll tell you why it’s a special day today.”
Eunkyung nodded eagerly as Intak set her back down on the floor, taking Eunkyung’s backpack and throwing it over his shoulder. Taeyang smiled as he knelt down to greet Eunkyung as well, hugging her and kissing her cheek. Both of them parted soon after, Taeyang taking her hand in his as they walked up to Jihye’s kindergarten.
Jihye greeted them just as enthusiastically, clinging to Intak’s leg and giggling when she was picked up. Jihye hugged Intak tightly as well - which Intak happily returned before setting Jihye down. Jihye happily grabbed Taeyang’s hand when she was set down - taking Intak’s hand quickly with her other hand.
“What do you two want to eat for lunch? You must be hungry after such a long day.”
Taeyang giggled quietly when both of them yelled ‘Pizza!’ in unison, immediately steering towards a pizza place they’ve visited before. Intak followed quickly as they went inside, settling at a table. Intak placed Eunkyung’s backpack on the floor before quickly flipping through the menu.
“They have ice cream here too, Taeyang. Then we can eat it here too.”
Intak smiled when Taeyang nodded - asking what everyone wanted before ordering for all of them. Taeyang watched with a small smile, reaching his hand across the table to take Intaks. Intak happily intertwined their fingers before looking at the girls, smiling at them as they chattered away.
“Today is special because we’re moving in with Intak. He’s helping us a lot, so we picked both of you up. When we’re done eating we’ll go to Intak’s house and sleep there.”
“So Intak is our appa now?”
Taeyang froze at Jihye’s question - looking between her and Intak, who seemed equally surprised by that question. Intak however gathered himself quickly, unlike Taeyang. He nodded at Jihye, smiling widely. Taeyang smiled as he watched Intak agree so quickly, squeezing Intak’s hand a little.
“If you want me to be your appa, then I am. If not, I'll just be Intak to you. But you won’t have to see Dojoon again and pretend like he’s your appa. I promise.”
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈
Eunkyung and Jihye were spending the night at Shota’s and Keeho’s place - Keeho had offered it to Taeyang, as it was the last day in court and the decision was finally announced. Taeyang had broken out in tears when it was finalized that he was no longer Dojoon’s husband and that he had sole custody for their daughters - he physically couldn’t hold himself back from hugging Intak, crying into his arms out of pure happiness.
By the time they arrived at home, Taeyang clung to Intak’s arm like he never wanted to let go of him ever again. They took their shoes off after they went inside, Taeyang’s wide smile not wearing off the entire time. Intak softly kissed the red hair on Taeyang - he had dyed it recently and Intak would be lying if he didn’t say he was obsessed.
“Intak, I want two things from you now.”
Intak raised his eyebrow as he looked at Taeyang - who was now letting go of his arm. Taeyang smiled slightly before invading Intak’s space again, resting his arms on Intak’s shoulders before burying one of his hands in Intak’s hair. Intak’s hands found Taeyang’s waist, carefully holding it as he looked into Taeyang’s eyes.
“What are they? You know I’d give it to you.”
“The first thing is your mating mark on my neck. The second thing is your last name. I want it.”
Taeyang smiled wider as he played with a lock of Intak’s dark hair, all while Intak couldn’t process the words properly. His brain felt like it was overheating, hearing those words from Taeyang. Intak blinked a few times, shaking his head before focusing on Taeyang again. Did he really just say that?
“What?”
“I want to be your mate. Today. Right now. Your last name can come later, but preferably as soon as possible.”
Intak blinked again - only fully processing that this was real and Taeyang was super serious about this when Taeyang started giggling like crazy. Intak pecked Taeyang’s lips once, twice to quiet him down, before kissing his cheek and his nose. Taeyang calmed down rather quickly from his giggle fit, looking Intak in the eyes as he caressed his cheek.
“How did I deserve you? You’re driving me crazy. I’m gonna die.”
“No, you won’t die.”
Taeyang let go of Intak, taking his hand and intertwining their fingers. Intak watched carefully, following when Taeyand led him towards the bedroom. Thank god Keeho was a genius, because Intak might as well ascend to heaven right then and there. He had to find something to gift to Shota and Keeho the next morning for making this possible.
“Wait, you don’t want a proposal before marrying me?”
“I don’t think we need one, do we? Just marry me right away. A mating mark is enough of a proposal, isn’t it?”
Intak nodded along - honestly not caring about whatever Taeyang was saying, because all he could focus on was he will be my mate and he’s going to take my last name. Intak might as well drop to his knees and thank the gods for whatever he did to deserve this. He watched as Taeyang laid down in the bed, waiting for Intak with a smile on his face.
Taeyang pulled Intak into a kiss when he crawled over him - ignoring the way their teeth were clashing. He pulled Intak as close as possible, pouring everything he could into their kiss, moaning quietly when Intak pushed his tongue in. Intak’s hand wandered underneath Taeyang’s shirt, carefully exploring his body as their lips parted, only a string of spit still connecting them.
“Do you want a marriage ceremony? Or do you just want us to register it tomorrow?”
“I don’t care. We could register it tomorrow and then plan, right? We don’t need something big.”
Intak nodded before he captured Taeyang’s lips with his own again, his finger circling Taeyang’s nipple. A muffled moan escaped Taeyang’s lips, which Intak used as an opportunity to push his tongue in once again. He continued playing with Taeyang’s nipple as their lips parted, taking in the sight before him.
Taeyang’s eyes were closed, his eyebrows slightly furrowed. Intak took Taeyang’s shirt off, his own shirt following right after. Taeyang looked at him for a few seconds before pulling Intak closer again, his hands now resting on Intak’s bare chest. Intak softly kissed down Taeyang’s neck before placing hickeys on Taeyang’s collarbones.
Intak started grinding against Taeyang while scattering more kisses all over his neck. Taeyang moaned quietly, wrapping his arms around Intak’s torso. Intak stopped kissing Taeyang’s neck to take a look at him - continuing to grind against Taeyang to take in the way his face looked as he moaned. If he could, Intak would tattoo this sight into his brain.
“Please… please do something. I need you, I need your mark on me.”
Taeyang whined breathlessly - grinding up against Intak a little on his own. Intak quickly stopped grinding, carefully opening Taeyang’s pants and undressing him. A slight blush formed on Taeyang’s cheeks, which Intak found more than beautiful. After getting rid of Taeyang’s clothes, Intak got rid of the clothes he was still wearing, kissing Taeyang right after.
“Don’t use anything, please. I want to feel you.”
Well, Taeyang might as well want Intak dead at this point. Intak took a look at Taeyang, kissing him as he pushed in, almost passing out at the feeling of Taeyang around him. Intak didn’t even realize how much slick was pooled down there until he pushed in, a loud squelching sound coming from there the more he pushed in.
Intak watched as Taeyang threw his head back, moaning as he pulled Intak closer. Intak kissed Taeyang’s neck as he started moving slowly, carefully nibbling on Taeyang’s neck. Something about Taeyang shifted at that very second - he offered his neck to Intak while Intak felt like he was about to suffocate from the strong vanilla and rose scent coming from Taeyang.
Taeyang whined as he grinded against Intak, urging him to move faster - which Intak gladly did. Intak buried his face in Taeyang’s neck, thrusting faster as he kept smelling Taeyang's scent glands. Suddenly, Intak couldn’t get enough from it anymore - pressing kisses on Taeyang’s skin while inhaling the scent.
Intak started thrusting harder into Taeyang, not bothered by the Omega’s nails digging into his back so harshly he was probably drawing blood. All Intak could focus on was the feeling of Taeyang stretching around his dick and Taeyang’s scent, which he would happily drown in.
Taeyang moaned louder - grabbing Intak’s head and pushing it impossibly closer to his scent gland. Intak opened his mouth - biting in Taeyang’s neck right as Taeyang came. Intak’s teeth stayed where they were dug in, only letting go when Taeyang let go of his head. Intak licked over the fresh wound on Taeyang’s neck before slowly moving again, chasing his own high.
Intak started thrusting frantically when Taeyang pulled him closer again, digging his own teeth in Intak’s neck. Intak came inside of Taeyang, his knot forming as Taeyang licked over the wound on his neck. He quickly grabbed Taeyang’s waist, picking him up just enough so Intak could lie down without crushing Taeyang underneath him.
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈
Intak woke up first the next morning - happily nuzzling his face into the crook of Taeyang’s neck, scenting the Omega. Taeyang was finally his and Intak could barely contain the excitement of it - reluctantly letting go of Taeyang and getting up to clean both of them up. Intak rushed to the bathroom - coming back quickly with a warm washcloth, cleaning up everything there was before bringing it away again.
Taeyang was whining when Intak came back, reaching for him without even opening his eyes. Intak chuckled quietly before he sat down on the bed, taking one of Taeyang’s searching hands and pressing a kiss on his nose. Taeyang slowly opened his eyes afterwards, sitting up and wrapping his arms around Intak.
“Don’t leave me alone after mating. That’s mean.”
“I cleaned you up, though. I don’t think that’s mean.”
Intak chuckled when Taeyang pouted slightly - pulling Taeyang onto his lap swiftly. Taeyang squeaked before clinging to Intak again, giggling when Intak covered his face with little kisses. Taeyang quickly cupped Intak’s cheeks - holding him still before kissing his lips. Intak hummed happily, wrapping his arms around Taeyang’s waist.
“Let’s get dressed and change the sheets. We should pick the kids up soon, too.”
“Before we pick the girls up we have to register our marriage. I don’t want to be associated with that son of a bitch anymore.”
Taeyang’s scent turned sour when he mentioned Dojoon - but it quickly reverted back to normal. Intak carefully tucked a strand of Taeyang’s hair behind his ear, nodding while smiling softly. Taeyang pressed a kiss on Intak’s cheek before getting up, quickly gathering clothes to get dressed.
Intak did the same as Taeyang, getting dressed before he started removing the sheets from the bed. Taeyang in the meanwhile got new bedsheets, putting them on as Intak put the old ones in the washer. Intak stood in the doorway as he watched Taeyang put the sheets on - smiling slightly as he watched Taeyang.
Something about him had shifted - there was a new glow cast on him - or maybe it was just Intak being in love? To Intak it didn’t matter. Taeyang had a small smile on his face, humming quietly as he put the sheets on. Overall, this was the happiest Intak has seen Taeyang. Taeyang turned around after a while, looking at Intak with confusion written over his face.
“Why aren’t you helping me? This is your bed too, you know.”
“I was admiring how much happier you look.”
Intak went up to Taeyang as he finished what Taeyang started, tidying the bed up as much as he could - though it wasn’t to Taeyang’s satisfaction, as he fixed Intak’s previous work. Taeyang then turned around, smiling at Intak before walking up to him and pinching his cheek. Intak chuckled as he took Taeyang’s hand off his cheek.
“Of course I look happier. It’s finally over, you know? My girls have a father, I have a mate. I’m about to take your last name, too.”
“I should look into adopting the girls then, so they have my last name too.”
Taeyang smiled even wider as he nodded - leading Intak towards the hallway quickly. The both of them put their shoes on, grabbing their necessities before heading out. Taeyang intertwined his fingers with Intak’s, skipping a little before giggling and leaning against Intak. Intak’s heart swelled with love as he watched Taeyang, smiling at the Omega.
Their way to the registry office passed by quickly, Intak barely registering how fast everything suddenly went until he held a pen in his hand, signing the paper that would legally wed them to each other. Taeyang clung to Intak’s arm as he signed, the smile never leaving his face. Intak was so incredibly lucky.
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈
Taeyang started spending more time with Keeho as everything slowly became a new normal. Intak had kept his word - he looked into adoption and rushed through the process as soon as possible. Taeyang couldn’t be happier about it - especially since the girls became so much more extroverted in their new, safe home.
Keeho had become a close friend over time - he loved taking care of the girls and as the only other Omega Taeyang knew, he naturally seeked him out a lot. While the girls were in school and kindergarten, Taeyang used the opportunity to spend time with just Keeho. However, Keeho unfortunately had a terrible idea.
“Listen up Taeyang. You’ve been sick in the morning, I’ve been sick in the morning. Obviously we have to play pregnancy test roulette now.”
“Keeho, that’s not the logical conclusion, nor how this works.”
“Boo. What are you, the fun police?”
Somehow, Keeho still roped him into this so-called roulette game. Keeho had shown him several TikToks with that game, but Taeyang couldn’t quite comprehend whatever Keeho was trying to go for. They were only two people, the chance would be fifty-fifty anyways. More importantly, two would’ve been more than enough. Keeho obviously got four, in case one of them was positive.
When Keeho set up his phone and started filming, they both took a pregnancy test. Taeyang’s eyes widened as he saw the familiar positive sign - quickly taking a look at Keeho’s test, before freezing. Both tests showed a positive result - something Taeyang didn’t expect. Keeho only realized when he saw Taeyang’s face.
“We need to try again, I think. What if those were false? No roulette this time, I promise.”
Taeyang reluctantly agreed - solely because he wasn’t sure what result he wanted. On one hand, having a kid with Intak didn’t sound like a bad idea. He was a great father to Eunkyung and Jihye - he proved that every single day. But would a child of their own change Intak’s relationship with Eunkyung and Jihye? They weren’t his own, after all. The thought of that alone made Taeyang’s eyes well up with tears.
Keeho looked at both pregnancy tests this time - gasping for each one before cheering. Taeyang looked at the results cautiously, a knot forming in his throat after seeing the results. Both were positive again, so it was clear that Taeyang was pregnant. Yet he didn’t feel like cheering at all - worry taking over.
A tear escaped Taeyang’s eye as Keeho ended the video, his cheers quickly dying down when he saw Taeyang’s expression. He wrapped an arm around Taeyang before calling both Intak and Shota, rubbing Taeyang’s back as he sobbed into Keeho’s arms. It felt like an eternity to Taeyang - sitting on the floor, in Keeho’s arms while crying.
“Intak will be here soon. It’ll be fine, Taeyang.”
The door unlocked shortly after - a wave of different scents coming in their direction. Keeho glared at Shota when he saw that Jongseob and Jiung tagged along, shaking his head in disapproval. Intak quickly ran up to Taeyang, kneeling down in front of him before pulling him into his own arms.
Taeyang clung to Intak as if his lifeline depended on it, sobbing into his arms while Intak tried pretty much everything to calm Taeyang down. He drew circles on Taeyang’s back, released more of his scent and pressed kisses to Taeyang’s red hair. None of it worked, the sobs barely stopping.
“What happened, love? Why are you crying?”
“Oh my god. They’re both pregnant!”
Intak turned towards Jongseob, who pointed at the pregnancy tests scattered around. Intak stared at the tests in disbelief, turning slightly towards Shota, who now seemed just as shocked as Intak. Keeho played with the hem of his sleeve, his worried gaze trained on Taeyang.
“Taeyang, I promise this won’t change anything. You can abort the kid if you don’t want another one or keep it. I won’t treat Eunkyung and Jihye any differently, you know? They’re my first daughters too. It’s all up to you, love.”
Taeyang’s sobs quieted down at that - looking at Intak with wide eyes. Intak smiled slightly as he wiped Taeyang’s tears away, pulling him a bit closer after doing so. Jiung quickly handed Taeyang a tissue - which he took while thanking him. Taeyang’s breathing got more even, before looking up at Intak.
“You promise that you won’t treat the girls differently? That the gender won’t matter?”
“Of course. Why would I do that? They’re all my children, too. Nothing could ever change that.”
Intak chuckled quietly when Taeyang held his pinky finger out - which Intak quickly locked with his own. Taeyang smiled slightly before sitting up straight again, turning to Keeho. Keeho smiled slightly, screaming when Taeyang hugged him all of a sudden. Keeho laughed while Taeyang squealed, squeezing Keeho tightly.
“We’ll be pregnant together!”
“Congratulations… to you two then?”
Jiung looked at Keeho and Taeyang before turning to Shota and Intak, awkwardly stretching his hand out. Jongseob and Shota erupted into laughter at Jiung’s gesture, while Intak stood up from the floor with a wide grin plastered onto his face. He watched as Keeho and Taeyang cheered together, whispering excitedly while staying in the other's tight embrace.
Intak doesn’t think he could possibly get any luckier than this.