Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

   Living as an omega was harder for some than others. Omegas could struggle with sexism, fertility, wage issues, lack of housing, disownership from their families, and more. Xeno Houston Wingfield was considered a fortunate omega in most regards aside from his fertility and health. Having been through, well… hell, to be where he was, was an understatement of the cosmos.  

    The man that was Dr. Xeno was an upstanding NASA employee and university professor for online classes with a small home in Japan, and one in Houston, Texas where he was born. He took in Senku Ishigami, the son of his coworker and good friend Byakuya, as a teenager when they met on Skype and began to exchange messages regarding science, innovations, and Xeno’s path into NASA that Senku followed the shadow of like a stray kitten wandering through alleyways.

     Senku was just a young alpha at 19- Xeno would never forget it for as long as he lived- and Senku was swept off his feet by an omega he met purely by chance, Asagiri Gen. The two were inseparable little brats that Xeno loved like they were his own. He had to accept it, the chances of him having a pup of his own with Stanley were slim to none, and it slapped him in the face all the more as time passed and Xeno aged. The older he got meant the less likely he would become pregnant. When he hit his 30’s, dread filled the omega. As much as his husband assured him it was okay- Stanley would always say, “as long as I got you, baby, I’m happy”. Xeno knew it was genuine if not desperate. Stanley would love to have a child with the love of his life, he had said it before during their endless sessions of lovemaking. Of course, at the time, it was likely an empty shell of what he actually felt- the love of a father begging to come to the forefront if his beautifully chaotic omega’s body would accept his essence.

   Of course, there was Xeno’s alpha, oh, his alpha… Stanley Snyder . The love of his life. The man that took his virginity, spent every heat with him, slept beside him every night, and mated him when they were 19 and so in love. Stanley was a marine and trained sniper yet had such a massive soft spot for Xeno in the darkest part of his heart that constantly craved Xeno’s light. Even Senku and Gen touched a part of his heart that no ordinary person could. Stanley, his mother, and his older sister were abused by his father as a pup doing everything they could to protect Stanley’s little sister. Naturally, Stanley was as protective as he was gorgeous, and Xeno loved that about him. It wasn’t just his alpha instincts (though they surely played a role), as Stanley was beating up Xeno’s bullies even before the two presented their secondary genders.

    Stanley was not the kindest man or even an ethical one- he engaged in illegal sniping and drug activities for a brief point when he was in high school. He only stopped when Xeno was on his knees one night, begging and pleading for him to come back home and be with him. So, naturally, Stanley coped with his trauma and issues by lighting up a cigarette all the damn time to cope. Those toxic fumes drove Xeno insane, but he’d take that over whatever Stanley tried at 16. 

    The two were arrested as pups for making a rail gun, they went to prom together, and they got married back home in Texas when they were 26. Stanley continued his work as a marine but made sure to spend every heat with Xeno. 

   Xeno, being an omega, was occasionally thrown a sexist remark here and there, but nothing was as bad as his heats. They were most often excruciatingly painful, made him moody, angry, hungry, tired, and more. The symptoms had a wide range depending on his heat. Xeno would be hit with a heat once every so often, like he had his valence electron. Then it was back to hell on earth. Stanley did what he could, sometimes Xeno’s heats made their sex agonizingly painful and like it was burning his insides- other times he couldn’t go five minutes without Stanley’s knot. 

~

   Xeno was stuck at his work desk as he recalled his last heat, dreading the next and pinching the bridge of his nose. Painful, oh, so painful. He couldn’t even look at Stanley then without his body betraying his omegan instincts. He just couldn’t wait to go back home to Stanley already! The two were back in Texas, and Xeno’s second week in his home country was spent at his desk job at NASA. 

   “Hey, Dr. Xeno,” Brody, an engineering friend, had said as he walked past Xeno’s desk, “you okay, man?”

  Xeno looked up at his (and Stanley’s) friend, moving his hand away from his face, “oh, yes, I’m okay. Just eager to go back home. Thank you.”

  Brody raised an eyebrow, then continued to shuffle back to his own workspace in the engineering department in another part of the facility. Xeno sighed to himself, leaning forward on his desk to rest his chin on his palm.

   It was almost time. He’d be going into heat any day now, and then he’d be in his and Stanley’s bed for hours. Stanley was going to be deployed next week- so they could spend the next heat together and Xeno would fly back to Japan to be closer to where Stanley was going to be deployed.

   That’s when Xeno’s phone began to ring, noticing it was a call from Senku back in Japan. He swiped right to answer, holding the phone to his ear.

   “Good afternoon, Senku,” Xeno said. Please, be a quick phone call. I’m almost out of here.

    “Hey, doc,” Senku said, “just calling about when you’re coming back. Still want me to check on the rocket prototype in your closet?” 

   “Oh, yes, if you would. Feel free to add anything you’d like. However, do not alter the framework,” Xeno replied, “Stan won’t be with me, but I’ll be back early April.”

   “Sounds good. Hah. Gen’s already planning stuff to do,” Senku chuckled, “we’ll be here. Catch ya later, geezer.”

   “Behave yourself,” Xeno said with a smile before hanging up. Two more minutes. 

~

   Xeno got into his car with his lunchbox and phone on his person to head back home. He opened up his text messages, opening his contact for Stanley, named ‘Stan 🖤’

On my way home now. I love you.

   Xeno sent the message. He was expecting his husband to be napping or playing a video game. He placed his phone down, starting his car when he got a reply a few moments later.

hi doll. Can’t wait to see you. Any preheat symptoms yet?

   Xeno smiled to himself like a gitty little kid. He was 31! But… Stanley was so good to him, always finding a way to make his mischief loving heart softer. He couldn’t help himself.

Nothing yet. 

   Xeno placed his phone down and buckled his seatbelt, before reversing out of his parking spot to begin the trek home. The doctor prided himself in being a good driver, going the usual route home and maintaining a healthy speed. He often enjoyed passing by a particular store on the way home for a comic book series- it had pictures of planets, rockets, and stars decorating the windows.

    It wasn’t until his phone vibrated with a text from Stanley that Xeno’s stomach sank, his vision blurred and… oh no.

just a heads up. i think I’m going into rut

   Stanley played it off as something that wasn’t a big deal (likely to keep his mate calm) but with Xeno’s unpredictable heats, their heat and rut almost never synced together. This hadn’t happened since the previous… incident .

  Xeno felt some slick between his legs and he slightly swerved the car as he felt a pang of pain in his stomach, but then nothing. Xeno panicked silently, regaining himself and keeping both hands on the wheel. Nobody was passing him, so he was safe to keep driving. He had to make it home. He needed Stanley. 

   The black BMW Xeno drove pulled into his driveway beside Stanley’s pickup truck, and he grabbed his lunchbox before barreling into the house. He was so damn glad to be home and with Stanley. Another symptom of his good heat was needing Stanley, smelling his presence in the house and longing for him. 

   “Hey, hey, what’s the matter?” Stanley asked, getting up from the sofa. What a sight for sore eyes he was in just a T-shirt and boxers. Xeno threw his arms around his mate, burying his head in Stanley’s chest. He was frazzled from nearly crashing his car before because of the terrible time his heat decided to start. Stanley’s eyes went slightly wide when he smelled the slick and overpowering scent from Xeno, even with his scent blocking collars. 

   “Stan…” Xeno said, looking up at him, “I think I just went into heat. I-I almost crashed. It hurt for a second, a-and-“

   “Shhh, honey,” Stanley said, holding Xeno, “it’s okay. You’re okay.”

   Xeno truly hated when his omega instincts completely overruled his logical and intelligent mind, but he was completely swooned and overtaken by Stanley. He could smell the rut on his mate, his usual scent of evergreen was overpowering and intoxicating to Xeno. Much to Xeno’s enjoyment, Stanley was practically drunk off Xeno’s honey-like freshly baked goods scent that was permeating their home. The two scented danced, inter tangled each other as the two hugged.

   “Stan… I need you,” Xeno whined. Stanley lifted Xeno’s chin, his wedding ring sparkling in the light peeking through the curtains as he leaned in and began to kiss Xeno. It was like the world had stopped and it was just the two of them. Xeno was completely submissive to Stanley when in heat and Stanley was rougher, protective, and had much better endurance when he went into rut. It was the perfect match. 

  Xeno threw his arms around Stanley’s neck, pressing his body against his husband.

   “Xe…” Stanley said between kisses, “good heat?”

   “Mhmm..” Xeno cooed as he opened his mouth for Stanley’s tongue, “don’t… hold back…”

   Stanley smirked, “alright, whatever you say, princess.”

  Xeno’s pants were practically flooding with slick from the nickname alone. He moaned into Stanley’s mouth, feeling the alpha’s all too familiar massive cock hardening against his own crotch, waiting to come back home. He couldn’t wait for Stanley to rock his world and make him see stars. His husband looked down at him with halflidded eyes, his mascara covered lashes hooding over them, ready for what was to come.

~

  “STAAAN!!” Xeno screamed. 

    He couldn’t see his bedroom around him, his eyes were rolling back into his head from Stanley’s strong hips pounding into him. He was completely balls deep into Xeno, pressing his husband into the mattress of their bed. 

   Stanley’s back was covered in scratch marks, both their bodies covered in bruises, bite marks and Xeno’s was in red lipstick kiss marks. Stanley was in complete alpha autopilot, as Xeno was in his omega heat-induced and submissive haze. His alpha had him practically folded in half as he fucked Xeno’s brains out into their shared bed. 

   Stanley pulled his cock out for a moment, looking down at his omega, who was already giving him puppy eyes. What a good little slut, already begging for his dick.

   “Flip over,” he ordered in his drill sergeant tone of voice (which only turned Xeno on even more). Of course, the omega obeyed, flipping over on his hands and knees as Stanley lined himself up and slammed back into Xeno. He was truly massive . 

   “AHHH! Stan~!” Xeno cried, his hands balled up into fists as his knuckles turned as white as his bedsheets. He could feel Stanley’s cock bulging in his stomach, which was likely visible too.

   “That’s it. You’re taking my cock so well, you little slut,” Stanley cooed into Xeno’s ear, like there was that nicotine in his voice from his cigarettes. He was running his hands up and down Xeno’s chest and then playing with his small omegan cock.

   “Stan… I’m all yours… breed me. Stan!!” Xeno cried, “y-your knot… ah~! Ah!” 

   Xeno’s once elegant pompadour was completely down and over his shoulders, as was Stanley’s once slicked back blond hair. Xeno would look back at his words said in his heat-driven haze and remember his chances of falling pregnant were low. They had tried before to no avail. What was the point of using contraceptives? The sex was amazing without them and he was happy with Stanley, so the two never bothered to used a condom. 

   Stanley slapped Xeno’s ass as he pounded into him, Xeno crying, screaming and moaning in his heat driven haze and cloudy mind.

   “You’re taking my cock so well, Xe, maybe I’ll knot you~” 

   “Oh, Stan! Please… knot me! I’ll be y-your good omega! Ah~!” Xeno begged. Stanley nearly pulled his dick out, making Xeno gasp before he suddenly slammed back in as his knot expanded inside Xeno, like he had just reached the omega’s cervix and would rearrange the inside of that too. What a damn tease, Stanley was.

   Xeno screamed in pleasure, nails digging into the sheets of the bed. He couldn’t take it anymore as he released into Stanley’s hand, and Stanley came inside him, his knot popping. 

   “Mmm… doll, you’re so warm and wet for me… don’t forget you’re all mine. I love you,” Stanley said, grabbing Xeno’s ass, “and the sexiest thing I’ve laid eyes on.”

   Xeno whimpered, moaning quietly for Stanley. His dick didn’t go down at all, still up and ready for another round with his alpha. He could do this all night with Stan, then relax the next morning in a cloudy haze of evergreen mixed with honey to help them sleep through the day.

Day 3

    Xeno’s heat and Stanley’s rut were at their peaks, the house, even with dinner cooking, smelled of purely an omega in heat and an alpha in rut. Their house had never in fact smelled so strong, with Xeno’s heats as they were, the two almost never overlapped; but when they did on this fateful week, it was like a drug Xeno created in his lab that was giving them the best high of their damn lives. Like the two of them thrived off each other, they fed each other parts of their souls that they missed in their occupations when they were so far apart from each other. Like two matches struck whose flames danced in beautiful synchronization, and then became one.

   “Stan~” Xeno said erotically, turning and looking over his shoulder at his husband, batting his eyelashes. Xeno was sitting in Stanley’s lap, his back up against his husband’s chest as the two laid in their bathtub. They were attempting to clean themselves up from the cum, sweat and lipstick all over them. The bathroom was connected to their bedroom in this cozy house, decorated to Xeno and Stanley’s tastes. 

   “What is it?” Stanley asked with a husky and undeniably sexy voice, leaning into Xeno as his hands went from his hips down to his ass. Stanley’s cock had spent more time in Xeno’s ass recently than not, and now was no different. He pushed in without hesitation, a smirk painting his face as he blew a stray strand of blond hair from his gorgeous, feminine face that contrasted greatly from his rather masculine and muscular body from the neck down.

    “Mmm… Stan… you’re my most elegant knight, you can’t figure it o- ah~!” Xeno gasped, arching his back as he felt Stanley’s length inside him again. His entire pelvis was sore but he couldn’t care less, he needed Stanley and he needed him now . 

   “I think I got it right, princess scientist,” Stanley whispered seductively into Xeno’s ear, opening his legs some more as he held Xeno’s hips once more, helping him ride his cock as the bath water began to splash between them. Xeno could practically hear his smirk in Stanley’s tone alone.  Xeno moans and Stanley’s occasional moans and groans filled the room like the alpha filled his omega. The couple got completely sidetracked by the act that they hardly washed up, and the rest was truly history.

One week later

   “Mmm…”

   Xeno was awoken by the stream of morning sunlight coming through the curtains of his and Stanley’s shared bedroom. The omega rubbed his eyes, adjusting to his surroundings and trying to recall the last week of possibly the best heat of his life. Stanley’s rut lasted almost just as long as his heat, the two having sex practically all day and night, only taking breaks to sleep or use the bathroom. It was like clockwork. 

  The scientist felt how sticky his stomach was, and between his legs was far worse. Stanley had knotted him countless times and his alpha pheromones combined with Xeno’s heat scent drove Stanley insane, practically making him drunk and horny 24/7, in turn making him stronger and able to knot Xeno many times. Stanley had completely crashed when his rut came to an end and fell fast asleep beside his mate. He was able to relax his alpha side because Xeno was safe and sound beside him, he even had an arm lovingly around Xeno.

   While the beauty that was Stanley was softly snoring and sound asleep beside Xeno, he had his face partially buried in the soft pillows. The two were completely naked, Xeno observing bruises, bite marks, lipstick, and cum on many parts of his own body, and there was even a lipstick ring on the base of his cock in Stanley’s favorite shade of red.

   He saw Stanley had some bite marks and hickies from his shoulders and up, without the lipstick anywhere except remnants smeared on his lips. Xeno smiled at his gorgeous husband, running a hand gently over his cheek. 

   “Stan…” Xeno sighed affectionately in a whispery tone, planting a gentle kiss on his cheek, “I love you. That was the best week of my life.”

   Stanley snored quietly and stirred slightly in bed, his arm slightly tightening around his husband, “yeah… X… no problem… love.. you…” he muttered with a soft smile in a sleepy daze, eyes still shut before abruptly snoring again.

    Xeno smiled like a kid truly in love all over again, then he moved Stanley’s arm from his waist to his fluffy pillow, that was absolutely littered with the scent from his heat and just his usual honey like scent, the sweetest aroma to Stanley. Stanley pulled the pillow close to his nose, burying part of his face into it as he slept like a baby. Xeno caressed his cheek one last time with the same gentle smile he only reserved for his husband.

   The scientist then sat up, his stomach bloated to hell from all the cum he took and possibly the post heat effects on his body. When he had a “normal” omegan-like heat, he experienced little to no pain and hardly any after effects. Xeno was over the moon like the astronauts he worked with because of the lack of pain and vast side effects. He knew he’d have to deal with more later on, but he tried to push that into the back cabinets of his busy mind. 

Chapter Text

   Perhaps… It all boils down to how I organized the notes. It is not that difficult to grasp Schrödinger’s cat.

   Xeno sent many text messages to Senku regarding some of his most unintelligent, troglodyte students. Only Senku could truly understand the gravity of the situation and Xeno’s pain as a professor. Even if the classes were online, Xeno was a good lecturer and quick to answer questions, making it all the more frustrating when someone asked him such an egregious question.

   Or maybe you’re too hard on them, doc. Lol. I get you need coffee just try not to take it out on the kids

   Xeno raised a brow, scowling slightly while typing his response to Senku, who often loved to oppose his “evil scientist” views, as Gen and Stanley liked to put it. How dare he know Xeno so well and hit the nail on the head? The scientist was typing when he felt a hand on his shoulder, earning a yelp from the omega as he spun around and saw his husband.

   “Hey,” Stanley said, his eyes halflidded and his voice still full of the sleepy world he was once in.

   Xeno, relaxing once he saw it was just his mate, yanked Stanley down by his shirt collar and kissed him. He melted into the kiss, submissive to Stanley’s slowly growing will.

   Stanley pulled away after a moment and looked down at the pile of papers in front of his omega on the kitchen table, rubbing his eyes once again to adjust his vision and take in all the chicken scratch writing Xeno had. He was a doctor with a PhD, so it was only a requirement to have nearly unintelligible handwriting.

  “Whatcha doing? Want some coffee if I made some?” Stanley asked, finally noticing Xeno’s saddened and slightly slouched demeanor.

   “Working,” Xeno replied. Some of the best sex of his life did have to come to an end eventually, with himself and Stanley parting ways the next morning for Xeno to be bound to Japan, and Stanley to a Marine base in the Middle East.

   “Something else, too,” Stanley replied, leaning down as his lips pressed to Xeno’s cheek, leaving a mark of his signature red lipstick.

   “Doesn’t matter,” Xeno sighed, “you know what I’ll say, Stan. You do this every time.”
Xeno folded his arms, pouting. He didn’t want his husband to leave him again for months on end. He was so damn cute when he pouted and Xeno clearly knew that.

   “Oh, Xe. Don’t be like that. Come here,” Stanley said with a smile, wrapping his arms around his mate and lifting him out of the chair. Xeno gasped, his eyes wide as his arms were pressed against his chest and Stanley held him by his bottom and neck. The alpha began to kiss all over Xeno’s face, then nuzzling into his neck. Stanley was never this sweet and affectionate around anyone except Xeno, he saved this side for him and him alone.

   “I love you! So much, baby, you have no idea!” Stanley beamed, “no matter where I am. I’ll always love you. You know that.”
Xeno huffed and puffed, Stanley held him up so the marine’s head was just below Xeno’s chin, so Xeno turned his head up and looked to the side to spite him.

   “Come home early, then,” Xeno insisted. He would try to bargain. Maybe, just maybe that could work again.
“I’ll see what the big boss says,” Stanley replied, “how’s that?”

   Xeno looked back at Stanley, turning his head to face him once more and moving his arms out of the once crossed position. He smiled softly, “okay. I’ll just miss you, Stan. I can’t take being without you for months. Don’t do that to me anymore. Please. I can’t lose you…”

   Stanley’s smile turned to a saddened expression, as he nuzzled his husband and placed him on his feet so they could embrace each other.
“Xe… nothing will happen to me. I promise. I got strong enough to be able to protect you.” And our future pups. If a miracle would ever happen.

   Xeno looked up at Stanley, cupping his cheek, “Stan… surely you’d know that anything can happen out there…”

   “And I won’t let anyone or anything hurt me. Ever. I have you to live for you, Xe,” Stanley insisted, eyes widening as his once happy demeanor turned more serious. He gripped Xeno’s shoulders, Stanley’s wedding ring shining in the sun of the late morning, “Xeno, I promise. I’ll come home to you.”

~

   Xeno threw his arms around Stanley’s neck. Today really was the day… the day he’d say goodbye to his husband for at least two months. He couldn’t cry… not this time. He sobbed the last time when Stanley left him for six agonizing months of hell on earth with medications for his heats, pain (emotional and physical) and stress that he normally coped with beside his husband. Drugs couldn’t help with the pain of Stanley not being there, they only did so much.

   Stanley had on his uniform pants and a white tank top, with his jacket tied to his waist and dog tags around his neck. He always wore them- showered with them, slept with them, even kept them on during Xeno’s heats. They were his pride and joy, second to only Xeno. The tag with Stanley’s full name, Stanley Snyder-Wingfield and his date of birth and on the back, was also engraved in Xeno’s own handwriting on the backside which wrote out, “I love you, my elegant knight” - X. Stanley was the only one who could read this, and nobody bothered to ask him what it read if they ever saw it.

   Xeno buried his face in the crook of Stanley’s neck and shoulder, forcing the tears to stay back as he held his husband. This would be the last time he’d hug him in months. It would be pure agony without Stan. Xeno would melt in Stanley’s touch, pretending he was stuck to his mate with some sort of glue made by their love for one another.

   “Xe, it’ll be okay, doll. It’s okay. Shhh,” Stanley said, running his fingers through Xeno’s hair. Stanley knew Xeno like the back of his hand and he could sense what was to come, “it’ll be okay, baby. Hey. It’s gonna be alright.”

   Xeno couldn’t keep it in anymore. He burst into tears, breaking down, absolutely sobbing into Stanley’s neck. He held his love by his tank top undershirt desperately, like some evil force would take him away in a gust of wind, never to be seen again. Like a more messed up Romeo and Juliet, where Stanley could die in combat and Xeno would rot all alone in Japan, succumbing to his broken heart. Horrific scenario after another replayed in the omegan scientist’s head.

   Passerby’s all turned their heads at the sobbing omega, specifically eyeing Stanley to see how the alpha would handle such a situation. Staring was sort of a given when someone broke down crying but Stanley’s usually heightened alpha instincts kicked in, even going into overdrive- but why? He didn’t usually go overboard unless he was in rut.

   “Leave us alone!” Stanley hissed, before looking down at his mate, “shhh… Xeno, it’s okay. I know, I know. Look at me. Look at me, doll.”

   The nearby people quickly glanced away at the angry alpha, knowing not to mess with someone who put their foot down. Especially with the likes of a US Marine Captain.

   Xeno looked up, sniffling as snot rolled out of his nose and tears rolled down his cheeks and dripped down his chin. The poor thing, Stanley’s heart practically shattered. He wiped Xeno’s tears away with his gloved hand and caressed his mate’s cheek, the other hand around Xeno’s waist.
   “S-Stan… don’t l-leave.. m-me,” Xeno hiccuped, “please!”

   “Xe.. I’ll see about coming home early, okay? Three weeks tops. How’s that?” Stanley said. He was worried. Xeno did usually shed some tears at Stanley’s departure but never like this. His smell was slightly off. Was he sick? Stanley would be sure to text Byakuya as soon as he got on his plane to check on his omega and get a temperature on him.

   “No! Please, don’t go!” Xeno wailed like a toddler throwing a tantrum, “Stan!”
Xeno had his face buried in Stanley’s chest. His pecs were so defined and muscular, they were like soft cushions for Xeno’s bigger than usual forehead.

   “Xe… oh my…” Stanley said, holding his mate close, “how about two weeks?”
“O-One day! Come back tomorrow!” Xeno pleaded. He knew he was being completely unreasonable but he was as desperate as he was intelligent in aerospace.

   An announcement on the intercom informed the airport of Stanley’s plane and the time of departure; shortly, so the Alpha Marine had to say his last goodbye to his omega.

   “Xe,” Stanley said, holding Xeno’s head up by his chin and running his thumb over Xeno’s lip. He got down to his husband’s level, his lashes nearly touching Xeno’s face, “I love you more than anything in this world. Every night I think of you when I lay down in the barracks. I am always thinking of you. Always. I’m one phone call away, any time. I’d drop my dying subordinates if it meant hearing your voice. I’d kill everyone just to see your face again, Xe.”

   Stanley wiped away Xeno’s tears with his thumb, then pulled him into one last romantic and passionate kiss. They could give less of a damn about the setting- an airport- when their lips connected, it was just them on the planet. The world stopped and Stanley and Xeno were one. Stanley wrapped his arms around Xeno’s back and waist, Xeno threw his arms around Stanley’s neck and pressed his body to his husband’s.

   Stanley was forced to pull away after a moment of exploring Xeno’s mouth with tongue, “I’m off, Xe. I love you so damn much. I’ll see you soon, okay? Call or text me when you get home.”

   Xeno covered his mouth with both his hands as he watched Stanley walk away from him, attempting to contain his sobs. His gorgeous alpha husband waved to him as he had his duffel bag thrown over his shoulder, the last sight Xeno got of him before he disappeared into the crowd of ongoing passengers. He was alone again. His worst nightmares could become a reality while Stanley was gone and he’d have no idea, until it was too late.

~

   Xeno boarded the plane destined to Tokyo, Japan shortly after he parted ways with his mate. He was sniffling, carrying around tissues shoved in his pocket from the omega’s room after he had gone in there to throw up after his crying session. He felt awful, physically and emotionally. He shoved us hands in the pockets of his long black coat as he walked down the aisle to his seat.

   The silver haired omega then plopped down on his seat in the plane, buckling his seatbelt and leaning his head back as he let out a deep sigh. He was already longing for Stanley’s touch, just his presence beside him would be enough.

   Xeno’s phone then popped up with a text message from Byakuya Ishigami, Senku’s father and the kind alpha he called his neighbor back in Japan. He lived in a much bigger home than Xeno and Stanley did, boasting two floors compared to the one that the men shared.

   Hey Dr. Xeno! It’ll be good to see you again! When will you be here? I’ll be sure to send Senku by to say hello!

   Was this per Stanley’s request? The timing was impeccable. Xeno rolled his eyes, shutting off his phone as he prepared for the plane to take off. He really wasn’t in the mood for this.

~

   The keys to the house turned in the lock as the door clicked, allowing Xeno entry to the home he shared with Stanley. Except, he was all alone. The omega stepped into his home with his suitcase rolling behind him, trying to stifle back tears as he observed the decor. Pictures of his wedding day, Stanley’s first photo taken in the Marines, and even all the way back to their day at prom.

   The whole school was baffled that Stanley and Xeno went as a couple, and just as best friends. Xeno nearly got a cheerleader’s (one of Stanley’s jealous omega flings) cup of punch dunked on his head for stealing her man, until Stanley jumped in and smacked it out of her hand. Then there was the slow dance… Xeno could remember it like it was yesterday. Stanley holding his waist as he held his shoulder, their hands intertwined as they moved slowly to the romantic song playing at the hall venue their school had rented out. Stanley’s slicked back blond hair showed his beautiful ocean eyes twinkling in the dim purple and blue lights, his black lipstick complimenting his suit. The boys were only 17 at the time of falling in love and kissing at prom in front of all their classmates and friends, they became the ‘it’ couple as Luna put it, and were protected by all of Stanley’s football teammates.

   Xeno couldn’t help but tear up at the memory, missing everything about Stanley- his presence, protectiveness, beauty, crude tone, cigarette smoke, southern accent, the way he shuffled out of the house to have a smoke, his sweet and kindhearted side, when he would wear his ‘#1 Knight’ apron (that was custom made for him by Xeno himself) and cook Xeno meals, and when he’d fall asleep beside his omega.

   The scientist removed his shoes as he noticed a tear fall on the leather of his fancy shoes, placing them by the door. He then removed his coat- hastily throwing it over the chair by his computer desk in the living room. The omega walked through the cozy room, past Stanley’s weights and then opened the sliding door to his shared bedroom with his mate. He flopped onto the bed, utterly exhausted from crying his obsidian eyes out over his blond and gorgeous husband. He yearned for him already.

   Xeno mustered up what energy he had left to text Stanley. He’d be lying to himself if he said he wasn’t at least slightly spiteful that Stanley left. He always got like this, yes, but he felt it was somewhat justified. He’d always plead with Stanley to stay home. Every. Time. Xeno’s text to Stanley was drier than ever, straight to the point.

  I’m home

   Xeno spent that short time awake crying, tears staining Stanley’s side of the bed as he drifted off into a dreamless sleep.
Once Xeno was long lost in dreamland, hugging Stanley’s pillow close, his phone buzzed with a text from his mate.

   I know you’re mad at me, Xe. You can’t hide it. Lieutenant said i can come home in 2 weeks. Hold out until then, okay? I love you

~

6 hours later

   Xeno woke up to the sound of hard rain hitting his window panes, a knocking at his door, and an intense, overwhelming nausea and pain to his midsection. The omega was already overwhelmed, sitting up in bed as he rubbed his forehead. How inelegant… he slept in his dress shirt and slacks!

   The pining, lethargic and depressed omega stumbled to the door due to his nausea. He opened it slowly to show some of his favorite people- Senku and his stray cat of a boyfriend, Gen.

   “Xeno!” Gen chirped, then gasping, “oh my gosh, you look terrible, dear! What’s the matter?”

   “We thought you fell over in there, you okay, man?” Senku asked, putting a hand on his shoulder, then showing a bag in his opposite hand, “my old man said you were home, so we wanted to help and bring some dinner.”

   Senku and Xeno could relate to each other in their respective partners leaving for months on end, Gen was a man of showbiz and fame, and Stanley was a man of the military, their mates would spend long days pining over them. Gen just finished his tour and came home to spend weeks with his alpha boyfriend, much to Xeno’s jealousy and frustration with the timing… he knew it wasn’t the fault of the kids, but it felt like life was kicking him while he was down.

   “Stan left,” Xeno replied, sighing, “I woke up feeling very ill, my apologies. I don’t know how much I’ll be able to eat.”
Xeno stepped aside on his porch to let the two kids in, Gen coming in first only to get a whiff of the home. As a fellow omega, Gen understood Xeno on a level that even Stanley couldn’t- growing up as an omega, especially one in fame or the science industry- is a lot of pressure on the shoulders of a young Gen and Xeno.

   Gen could tell, as a mentalist and fellow omega, that something was wrong. Very, very wrong- he could smell it on Xeno. His usual honey scent was slightly sweeter, almost intoxicating to Gen. Senku didn’t, and couldn’t notice if he wanted to, due to Xeno being a mated omega.

   “Xeno-Chan, are you in heat?” Gen whispered into his ear, Xeno shaking his head. Gen and Senku were very aware of Xeno’s health history and that question was a cruel reminder of his last heat being abnormal for him and only him. Senku was behind the two men untying his shoes, and Gen turned to his boyfriend, “Senku-Chan, I’m going to talk to Xeno for one moment. Can you get the table ready, darling?”

   “Yeah. Don’t take too long, the food will be colder than it is outside,” Senku replied, going over to the cabinets to get plates and forks out. Gen took Xeno by the hand and brought him to his bedroom, sitting on the bed beside the older omega.

   “Xeno,” Gen said, “did you and Stanley-Chan get into a fight?”
Gen was trying to help Xeno from an omega’s perspective, and getting into a fight with an alpha can be distressing to an omega to the point where other omegas can detect a change in their scents.

   Xeno shook his head, “no. I had a meltdown in the airport when Stan left, I probably embarrassed him.”
Xeno covered his face with his hands as his voice cracked. What was wrong with him? Stanley’s departure was tearing him apart.

   “Oh, Xeno… I’m so sorry,” Gen replied, “ I doubt Stanley-Chan got upset. He loves you more than he loves cigarettes.”
Xeno felt tears prick in the corners of his eyes, nearly smiling at Gen’s remark towards Stanley’s love of carcinogens, “if he loved me, he’d stay. I just had one of the best heats of my life, I made a perfect nest for us both. It’s gone. I have to start over.”

   Xeno turned to Gen, noticing a look of concern and shock on Gen’s face.

   “Xeno-Chan, is Stanley… no. Nevermind,” Gen said, “you look awful though, Xeno, I’d go see your doctor soon.”
   “Not until I finish making my nest here and finishing my grading of assignments. A doctor can wait,” Xeno insisted, Gen sighing. There was truly no changing these stubborn scientists.
    “Senku-Chan did mention you venting about that,” Gen chuckled, placing a hand on Xeno’s forehead. No fever. That was a good sign, at least.

   Gen sat up from the bed and ushered Xeno to follow him, “let’s go eat. That’ll help you feel ‘etter-bay!”

Chapter Text

   “Those idiots ended up failing my exam, AND getting kicked out of the university,” Xeno chuckled, “then proceeded to insult me for being an omega, as if that plays a factor in the equation.” Senku and Gen got him going on about his students, completely redirecting him from the usual lingering Stanley thoughts, hovering over him like a rainy cloud or the smell of his alpha. 

   “Sometimes it’s the knotheads in college who think they know everything,” Senku said, then deadpanning, “they’re all ignorant and think with their dicks.”

   “Outstanding observation, from my best student,” Xeno said to Senku with a soft smile. His smile showed just how drained he was, mentally and emotionally. Senku casted a half smile to Xeno as well. The two were like siblings, they even argued like they were raised together- and in a way, they were - Xeno was 16 when he met a 6 year old Senku and began to babysit him for Byakuya. He even remembered Byakuya’s reaction when he met someone so young at NASA- “ HOW THE HELL ARE YOU NOT IN SCHOOL? ” The new alpha father had shouted to a 16 year old omega , nonetheless, in a lab coat holding a clipboard, and the rest was history. 

  “Thanks, doc,” Senku smiled, “I learned from a bona fide professional.”

  “You two are so cute!” Gen swooned, “it’s like watching two kids talking about a coloring book they both love.”

   Senku rolled his eyes and went back to eating his ramen and chicken, Gen going slower at picking at his dinner so he could attempt to converse with Xeno, all an intentional mentalist tactic. Xeno had a few bites and called it a night- his stomach wouldn’t be able to keep any more down. He was using enough willpower just to not throw up everywhere.

    “By the way, I didn’t understand a word you two were talking about with that lecture you mentioned Xeno-Chan!” Gen laughed, “except the photosynthesis thing. That’s important for my magic!”

   “How so?” Senku snorted with food in his mouth, “you damn quack magician.”

   “Hey!” Gen laughed knowing it was all in good fun, “I’ll have you know, it’s because I use lots of flowers in my acts! My favorite on stage is the lily.”

  “I still can’t figure out how you did that after the last show we went to. How’d you do it? Make the flowers rain from the sky like that? You didn’t have any up your sleeves,” Senku insisted after finishing his bite, his face turning sour as Gen smirked with the satisfaction of finally catching the scientist in his web of little tricks. 

  “A good magician never reveals his secrets, dear Senku!” Gen chirped, Senku and Xeno could hear the smirk in his voice. Like Xeno heard Stanley’s the other day.. oh no. 

  “Yeah, right. Like when you got drunk and told me you hid your phony magic shit in my underwear drawer the night before a show?” Senku laughed, “what, do you think I don’t clean myself, mentalist?”

  The leek haired boy was twirling some ramen up and popping it in his mouth when he smirked right back at Gen. Ramen was his favorite, and he got Gen, Stanley and Xeno on the bandwagon with him. For some reason, Xeno wasn’t touching his food after taking two bites.

   “That was one time !” Gen groaned, “ughh, Senku-Chan, you’re hopeless and dirty!”

The two boys burst into laughter between each other, but silence came from Xeno beside Senku. He was resting his chin on his palm as his elbow rested on the table, looking at the wall and reading one of Stanley’s awards for marksmanship, his own PhD, and awards for university and NASA achievements. 

  The laughter died down a few moments later when the younger couple looked over to Xeno, who was practically sulking. This was far worse than when Stanley left the last time. He only cried for a day, and needed one tub of ice cream. This may require more drastic measures. 

  “Xeno? Are you gonna eat?” Senku asked once the two calmed down, “i can make you something else if you wa-“

  “No, thank you, I’m fine,” Xeno replied before abruptly hiccuping, “I’m okay.”

   The scientist got up from his seat, casting a faker smile at the boys than when Gen talks to his ex, and making his way across the small home to the bathroom in his room with Stanley. Xeno felt sick . Gravely ill. He was longing for Stanley so badly that he was sick, that must’ve been it. He was dehydrated and had a stomach bug. He’ll be fine. 

   Think logically, Xeno. Don’t do it. Don’t call your older sister for help again. Xeno knelt over the toilet and let out what little of his dinner he had, the sound of his vomiting just barely reaching Senku and Gen in the kitchen. 

  “The poor thing, my goodness…” Gen said, looking over to his alpha boyfriend and lowering his tone to a whisper, “what should we do?”

   “Call his dog and get him some tums, I dunno,” Senku shrugged, “knowing the geezer, he’s gonna do what he wants even when he gets sick.”

   “Ugh, not helpful, Senku-Chan!” Gen groaned. 

   Gen suddenly had a better idea than just calling Stanley. He opened his contacts on his phone and clicked on the all too familiar contact named ‘Uncle Stan <3’ and hit the video call button. He walked to the door to the bathroom, whispering “Xeno-Chan is in the bathroom, shout hello to him when you hear the door, okay, Stanley-Chan?” Into the receiver after Stanley picked up. He was sitting on a ground level bunk bed in the barracks, presumably alone, as the rest of his comrades must’ve been at the dinner hall. 

   “You got it, kiddo,” Stanley whispered back to Gen. The split haired omega put the phone on speaker once he heard the toilet flush and the door opened, “Xeno-Chan, look who it is!”

   Xeno had opened the door to see Stanley on Gen’s rather big iPhone, and he felt his knees get weak. He couldn’t be Stanley’s bratty and submissive omega in front of Gen and Senku, he had a reputation to keep up.

   “Xe!” Stanley said, beaming a beautiful smile and waving to him, “hey, doll! I just got settled, are you okay?” 

   Xeno felt the tears creeping at his eyes and snatched Gen’s phone, pushing the younger man away and quickly turning so his back faced the magician. Gen wasn’t stupid or oblivious by any means, but Xeno was going to do what he had to do to preserve what was left of his dignity. 

   “Stan..” Xeno said, holding Gen’s phone close as if it was his husband was right there before him, “i… I’m fine.”

   Xeno knew he was being a brat but he didn’t care. He wanted Stanley home. His inner omega was deep within Xeno’s psyche but it was clawing its way up, needing Stanley, his alpha pheromones and his knot. 

  “Xe, seriously, tell me what’s going on. I’ll be able to help you,” Stanley replied, “is Gen still there?”

  Xeno turned around to see the fellow omega awkwardly standing right where the scientist left him. He gave Gen a look as sharp as Stanley’s knife collection under their bed and the younger omega took the hint, scramming into the kitchen with Senku.

   “Not anymore, Stan,” Xeno replied. He sat down on their bed, sighing more dramatically than usual. 

   “Alright. Now tell me what’s going on,” Stanley said assertively. He knew he shouldn’t let Xeno walk all over him like he was doing, but he knew it hurt an omega to see their alpha leave. Stanley couldn’t care less to empathize with anyone except his mate, his husband, and the person he’d spent the rest of his life with. He suspected Xeno’s problem was a painful heat incoming, even after a good one, Xeno could go into heat at any time. He was a ticking time bomb of emotions almost ready to explode. 

   “You, Stan. I miss you. I need you,” Xeno said. He laid flat on their bed, intentionally on Stanley’s side that was closer to the door.

   “There’s more,” Stanley replied. He was somewhat in serious soldier mode to get information from Xeno. It was toned far down, but he’d do any technique he could to slip through the cracks of Xeno’s brattiness.

   “I felt nauseous when I woke up from my nap, I just got sick after Senku and Gen brought ramen over,” Xeno confessed. He was upset with Stanley and also needed him, he wanted to show his husband what he was missing because he chose to go to the Marines over being with him.

   Xeno lifted his shirt to just above his navel and panned the camera down to his wider omegan hips, and moved his pants down slowly to show the area just above his cock. Male omegas had a lot going on down south, Xeno being no exception, and Stanley loved every part of him. 

  “Xe… whoa- doll, come, now. Pull those up and talk to me,” Stanley said. He couldn’t help himself and his eyes were practically glued to the screen. Damn it all, his alpha side couldn’t take over. He had no idea what’s gotten into Xeno since his heat and Stanley’s own rut ended and that issue was far more important than phone sex. Stanley’s omega was bratty and intelligent, a very deadly combination and the alpha’s kryptonite.

   “Stan… mmm…” Xeno sighed, “ah~” 

Xeno began to touch his own cock over his underwear, making sure the camera was pointed to his crotch.

   Stanley felt his cock getting hard in his military pants, and decided enough was enough. Xeno was clearly trying to guilt him for not being there. 

   “Xeno!” Stanley’s voice boomed, releasing a strong alpha scent in the barracks, “ enough ! Just talk to me, please!”

   Xeno gasped, abruptly pausing when Stanley yelled at him. He was practically like a deer in the headlights, frantically tucking his shirt back in and sitting back up. The shame covered him like Stanley’s blankets, suffocating. Making Stanley frustrated or angry was easy for most people, Xeno even sometimes treaded carefully, but Stanley was angry because it concerned Xeno’s well-being. The scientist was well aware of that undeniable fact, still, yet, his pining was overwhelming even if Stan had his best interests at heart over whatever Xeno would do to get his attention by making him think as an alpha, and not Stanley Snyder. 

   “Stan! Please, there’s something so wrong with me! I need you to come home. That's what’s wrong. This heat wasn’t like the last ones, it wasn’t painful, it was amazing . Stanley, you’re amazing. It’s why I married you,” Xeno began. He knew fighting tears away was a fruitless effort, letting it all out, “But it’s like you… you finally fixed me, or something… s-so I’m scared to lose you. I love you so much, Stan. I need you. I’m trying to get you to feel bad so you’ll come home, I know! I’m ruining it! I’m sorry I’m an awful omega and I couldn’t give you pups! I just… I..-“ Xeno wailed. He was falling apart again ?! What was going on! He hadn’t cried this much since his dog passed away when he was 19, and he hadn’t fallen apart since his first rocket he built with Stanley!

   “Xe… it’s okay,” Stanley said, his voice cracking from his own emotions. Was Xeno entering another heat? Stanley had to take a moment to keep from getting emotional himself. What was going on? Still, a smile formed on his face, like the clouds after a storm parted to let some sunlight reach the world. He was utterly shocked at Xeno’s confession, it was like a dam finally broke and his emotions flooded out into the receiver of Gen’s phone. 

   “You’re the best omega a dude like me could’ve asked for, baby,” Stanley replied, leaning closer to the camera. He blew a kiss into the lens so Xeno saw Stanley looking directly at him on his end. 

   “And Xeno. We talked about this, I don’t care about anything in this world as long as I have you. Pups would be an extension of that, of course, but you’re enough for me,” Stanley insisted with a gentle smile, “I’m so happy with you. It’s us against the world. Let’s take it one day at a time, babe. That’s what Charlotte always tells me when I can’t find my cigarettes, ha.”

    Stanley chuckled to himself, running a hand through his blond locks before he continued, “Call me every day, and I’ll see about comin’ home extra early, okay? Just breathe. Go see the doc tomorrow and call me so I know how it goes. We can’t have you in a painful heat alone. I need you to be okay. And if you’re not, I’m coming home urgently. Follow me so far, Xe?”

   Stanley didn’t suspect anything asides from Xeno’s heat or a ‘grace period’ as the omega called it, where he experienced more of an inner omega behavior (which was extremely out of character for Xeno) after any kind of heat. which used to happen more when Xeno was in his early 20’s, so Stanley admittedly found it somewhat odd. He had knotted Xeno hundreds of times and never got him pregnant, except for… the incident that took them ages to heal from. What makes now any different? As an alpha, Stanley was getting protective. Maybe it was time to come home. Just in case.

  Xeno nodded, wiping his tears away. He’d be strong for his alpha. Every omega could be self sufficient and strong when they needed to be. Stanley was incredible. As for Stanley, he was a professional at calming the frantic scientist whose mind always ran like a marathon runner at a million miles an hour. He was a perfect balance and different kind of crazy to Xeno’s own cute and evil insanity.

   “Y-Yeah. Stan… I’m sorry… but you should’ve still stayed home,” Xeno replied, smirking like an evil little genius. That’s when Stanley knew he was finally able to calm down Xeno. Now he was just being a brat because he knew he could! Then again, it  was all thanks to Stanley’s gentle expression, words and voice that Xeno was comfortable and happy once again.

   “It’s okay, baby. Just get checked out soon and let me know. And yeah- hey, don’t laugh it up, Xe!” Stanley snorted. Xeno had bursted into laughter because of his incessant teasing. Somehow his alpha always had a way to make him feel better, even giving him hugs, kisses and love from a whole other continent.

  “Did you guys make up yet?” Gen asked quietly, poking his head into the room, “Senku-Chan fell asleep on the couch.”

~

   “Thank you, Gen. Talking to Stan helped settle my grievances with him,” Xeno said to the two boys. Senku really did fall asleep on the sofa after a long day of doing his work. The leek haired boy rubbed his eyes with the long sleeves of his hoodie, yawning. Gen wrapped an arm around Senku’s shoulders to hold him so he’d stay awake for the walk to Byakuya’s.

  “Oh, it’s my pleasure, Xeno-Chan. I’m glad everything worked out. We’ll be right next door if you need us, ‘kay?” Gen insisted, smiling. There was sleepiness in his eyes, too.

  “Thank you. Be careful, you two. Goodnight,” Xeno said, waving to the two boys. He kept his porch light on to see them make the trek back, eventually seeing them disappear into the night down the quiet and secluded road to Byakuya’s.

   Xeno then shut his door, locked it and sighed. What a day he’s had… and more was to come. 

  The scientist went back to his room, shutting off the lights as he walked through each room in his home until he got to the bedroom. He shut the door to his room behind him, going to the bathroom to take a quick shower. Once he stripped, he stood in front of his mirror and sighed. He must’ve put on some weight after his heat. Well, a lack of painful symptoms must’ve come with the price of a bloating stomach. 

   The omega, after his shower, decided to use Stanley’s blow dryer for his sopping wet hair, then he brushed his teeth and put on his favorite black satin pajama set.

   Xeno plopped down onto his bed he shared with Stanley, leaning over to flick off the light switch for the overhead light and snuggle up to Stanley’s pillow and breathe in the (albeit, weaker due to time passed) alpha scent that Stanley let off. Within twenty minutes, Xeno was asleep, Stanley’s pillow in his arms and his comforter up just below his nose.

Two hours Later

   In the middle of the night, Xeno was slowly woken from a deep sleep with the room looking like it was distorted. It was still raining, the sound of the patter of the rain on the window caused even more crushing pain in Xeno’s head. 

   The omega realized what was happening and quickly got out of bed, stumbling to the bathroom. Xeno nearly tripped over his own feet before he knelt down in front of the toilet and let out the contents remaining in his stomach. What a long, inelegant night this was going to be…

Chapter Text

The next day, Xeno spent it inside his home. The omega was just as sick as he was the previous night and was practically bedrotting until the sun went down, only getting up to use the restroom or empty the bowl beside him when he threw up. He was living off water and toast, the only things he could somewhat keep down.

    Still, Xeno graded assignments, typed a thesis paper on his rocket prototype, and took several naps throughout the day. The task Stanley gave him last night still lingered in the back of his mind… go see a doctor . 

   The scientist decided that if he was still sick after tomorrow, he’d check himself into a clinic nearby, and he would promptly explain that to his husband on their nightly call.

~

  When the clock struck 8, Xeno got a text from (presumably) Stanley. They weren’t in the same time zones so his husband may have been a bit jet lagged, Xeno was still feeling it even after years of travel. He didn’t think twice before he opened it.

   Hello, Dr. Xeno. It’s Charlotte. Stanley wanted me to let you know he’s being put out to fight and will be off combat in a week so he can come home to you sooner. I’ll be joining him tomorrow. He left a voice message for you, which I will send in a moment.

   Xeno absolutely panicked at the text message. Was Stanley okay? He would probably call his cell anyways, not giving a fuck about some dumbass higher up who wanted his husband to stick his nose out in combat and potentially get murdered on the spot for some random rich people’s ‘safety’. He was supposed to lay low and come home to him in two weeks!

    Let me talk to him, wait!

   Xeno then mashed the call button, awaiting Stanley’s response. His husband didn’t pick up . Something was so, very wrong. He did receive the voice message shortly after his first attempt at calling. It was a minute and a half clip. Charlotte must’ve sent the messages and thrown the phone aside, grabbing her own gun and leaving Xeno to his own devices. Or maybe he didn’t have a choice. The scientist would have to calm himself down, or go to Byakuya’s and sort that out. 

   The silence filled the room as Xeno stared at his phone, the bright screen only making his headache worse. He tried to call again. Nothing. And again. Nothing . He decided to listen to the voice message from his beloved alpha.

   “Hi sweetheart, I can already feel how angry you are with me,” Stanley began, before a loud gunshot rang out from outside the base, “fuck- Xe, I know, there’s alot going on right now but I’ll be okay. We’ve done this before and we’ve gotten through it every time. Go to Byakuya’s and stay there in case of another painful heat. Hang in there, Xe. Take some medicine if you need it. Keep texting me, I want to hear from you. Not a second will go by that you aren’t in my head. I’d say you’re making me crazy.”

Stanley laughed to himself, but there was definitely some anxiety within his tone, “I love you, Xe. I’ll be home before you know it.”

   The recording then ended. Xeno’s face had long since gone pale and he was in tears by the sound of the gunshot on the other side of the phone. What was wrong with him and his emotions?! He couldn’t be… no. It was next to impossible. But it was still possible .

   Xeno panicked then and there as his thoughts raced. What would he do without Stanley calling him for a whole week? His panicked breaths fed into his sickness, and he quickly vomited into the bedside bowl before he grabbed his bathrobe on the back of the bathroom door and then grabbed the necessities- his laptop, phone, charger, Stanley’s pillow, blanket, and a shirt and slacks. Nothing more, nothing less. He threw on his slippers and began to trudge over to Byakuya’s home next door. He was exhausted, sick, nauseous, panicking and stepping outside made his head pound with pain. Sweat dripped down his forehead despite it being a cold night. His claim mark began to ache, Xeno scratching as he panted from running out of his house, slamming the door behind him.

  The scientist was avoiding puddles from the previous day on his walk to Byakuya’s home, stumbling and at one point dropping his phone on the sidewalk. Bending down to grab it made his head hurt worse. Xeno was panting and with tears rolling down his cheeks- but by some miracle, he made it, and began to frantically knock on the door.

   Byakuya’s cheery voice greeted Xeno as the door swung open, “hey, Dr. Xeno! Glad you came by!”

Byakuya then went quiet when he noticed how absolutely terrible Xeno looked. His eyes went wide and he even went a little pale. The man was much kinder than the usual alphas, always willing to help no matter how ugly the situation was and treating everyone as equals. His personality brightened up a room and sometimes it was a bit much on Xeno- but at the end of the day, he knew the man had a good heart, and that was what kept their friendship going. 

   Byakuya’s world famous pop star wife, Lillian, then peeked over the shoulder of her husband. Her scent blocking collar was even sparkly and studded to match her vibrant personality. She gasped, “oh my gosh, Dr. Xeno!” She cried, “sweetheart, come in, come in!”

   Xeno was ushered in and brought over to the side room where Lillian, Senku and Byakuya’s workspace and computer desks were. There was also photography equipment for Lillian’s shoots, some spare parts for Senku’s projects, two couches and a flatscreen TV. It was perfect for Xeno to crash there for a night. 

   The omegan scientist was noticed eyeing that couch by the fellow omega, Lillian, and she smiled at him. Byakuya had scrambled to make some tea and soup for Xeno who was obviously looking sickly, emotional, and hyperventilating. 

   “Come, Xeno, let’s sit and we’ll get you comfortable,” Lillian insisted. She took Xeno’s hand and sat him down on the couch, wrapping him in a blanket to get him comfortable and bringing pillows in from the opposite room of the foyer. She called to her husband, “Byakuya! Throw in a glass of water for him, too!”

~

   “That’s when I got the message,” Xeno explained, “and Stan didn’t answer his phone after that.”

   Lillian and Byakuya both exchanged looks of concern but then they quickly turned to a look of ‘but it’s Stanley Snyder. He’ll be just fine’. 

    Xeno was sitting on the large couch, wrapped in a fluffy blanket, with a cup of tea and a bowl of warm soup in front of him.

    “Well, Xeno, you know this is Stanley we’re talking about, right?” Byakuya asked with a halfhearted smile, “if there’s any guy I trust to get the job done, it’s him, let me tell ya!”

    “Stan is truly an exceptional marksman. But he isn’t anything more than human,” Xeno replied, sipping his cup of tea, “and that’s what terrifies me.”

    “Your emotions are heightened, sweetheart, and you’re sick as a dog. Did you… hm.”

Lillian waved a hand to Byakuya. He got the memo pretty quickly when he realized he was in a room with two omegas. He awkwardly grinned to his wife, “I’ll go check on the boys upstairs.”

   Byakuya then left Lillian to chat with Xeno, Lillian waiting until she heard him at the top of the stairs before she began to speak. She wanted the conversation to stay very private so she only planted the seed to one person, and the only one who needed to know in that moment.

   “Xeno, honey, when was your last heat?” Lillian asked, her voice low, “you’re showing all the telltale signs of early pregnancy.”

   Lillian was older, much like her husband, but was childless. Senku and Gen were the closest things she had to kids but many of her friends had pups of their own, so she wasn’t totally alien to the omega thing. She was a very big advocate of omegas sticking together. She had this kind of conversation with other omegas in the past, but none had such a complicated history with fertility and heats that Xeno did. 

   Xeno’s heart sank into his stomach. He almost dropped his cup of tea, his eyes filling with tears right after he had just stopped crying before. Byakuya and Lillian were able to cheer him up and he was crying for a whole new reason. There was already enough on this omega’s plate.

   “There’s… no way. I just had one of my good heats. A-actually… one of the best-. I haven’t fallen pregnant the other countless times I’ve done it with Stan. I’ve been with the same person since I was 16,” Xeno insisted, “what… would make this time any different? I-I just can’t give myself false hope. I don’t want to be heartbroken again, b-but it’s a possibility, I suppose.”

   Lillian smiled and shrugged, “beats me, sugar. I have no clue if you’re pregnant or not. I’ll drive you to the doctor tomorrow morning, though, so we’ll have you get looked at and we’ll get to the bottom of this. How’s that sound?”

    Again ? Lillian wondered. She didn’t want to pry, but it sounded like there was a point where Xeno had either fallen pregnant and lost the pup, or had a time where he suspected a pregnancy when there was none. Either way, her heart ached for this poor omega. 

   Xeno took a look at his bloated stomach, then back up at Lillian. He nodded. They’d cross that bridge when they got there. For the time being, he’d worry about Stanley and his safe return.

~

   “Rise and shine, sleepyhead!” Lillian sang in her beautiful voice, “good morning everyone! Time for breakfast!”

   Waking up to Lillian’s singing voice was a common occurrence in the Ishigami household when Senku was home from university. Senku, of course, was used to it. Even Gen was used to it, but Xeno was not. In fact, he despised when his beauty rest was at all being disturbed. He pulled Stanley’s pillow over his head, curling into the fetal position on the couch to try and fall back to sleep. That night was the first one he was able to stay asleep without puking his guts out.    

   Byakuya, of course, was on breakfast duty and blaring some music from the kitchen as he sang along. The sound and smell of frying bacon and eggs permeated the house and helped wake Xeno up. 

  “Xeno-chaaan. Good morning,” Gen said, leaning over on the couch and shaking Xeno’s shoulder gently, “I didn’t expect you to come over last night.”

   Gen smelled faintly of an alpha he knew all too well, so Xeno could only ponder what him and Senku did the previous day. He looked up at the mentalist, whose hair was still shaggy from sleep. He was in a loose fitting purple tank top and Senku’s pajama pants with the solar system planets on them.

   “I’m sleeping, cat,” Xeno said grumpily, “leave me be.”

   “A certain songbird said you’re finally going to the doctor’s today. It’s time to get up!” Gen said in his showbiz voice. He looked absolutely crazy to Senku, who had just trudged downstairs in his pajamas- an oversized t-shirt that spelled out Gen’s name in periodic elements, and basketball shorts. 

   “Who the hell are you talking t- oh, hey, Xeno,” Senku said, “when did you come by?”

    “Lillian said he came over last night,” Gen replied, “well, let’s all enjoy breakfast together anyways. Come, Xeno, join us!”

   Xeno reluctantly sat up, his t-shirt that belonged to Stanley sliding down his shoulder, and he stood up from the couch. He wasn’t as nauseous on this particular morning and hoped he could keep his breakfast down before he went out in public. The scientist sat down beside Gen at the table so he felt less alone as a guest, and was handed a plate of eggs, bacon and some pancakes from Byakuya. The man beamed a contagious smile at him as he handed him the plate. Byakuya really couldn’t help himself in being over the top, it warmed a part of Xeno’s dark heart.

   “Alright, everyone, dig in!” Lillian said once the plates were passed around. Xeno was hesitant but began to eat. He ended up having about half his breakfast which was better than what he had been doing the previous day and when Stanley left.

   Once he finished, Xeno excused himself to the bathroom and dressed in the shirt and slacks he managed to bring over. It was a pair he didn’t care as much about and he was grateful for that, because he had no clue what kind of tests he’d get done. A birth canal swab? Cervix exam? Who knows. 

   While he was checking his pockets and putting on his slippers, Xeno overheard Lillian grabbing her keys and Senku asking her where she was going.

   “Just gonna help out Xeno to the doctor. We’ll be back soon! And either with good news or bad news. We’ll see,” Lillian replied. Blunt, but logical… How elegant. Xeno respected that about her.

   “Text me,” Gen mouthed to Xeno on his way out the front door. Senku must’ve been worried too, and they’d get all the answers as soon as Xeno made it back. 

   Still, he nodded to the mentalist in response, making his way to Lillian’s white Lexus. He sat in the passenger seat beside her. So it began, the feeling of a giant pit in his belly, where he might not be as empty as he originally thought he was.

  The drive was agony for Xeno. Those 15 minutes were spent staring out the window, lost in thought or trying to talk to Lillian without his mind eating away at his soul. Lillian had pulled into a clinic for omegas, usually pregnant ones. They did free checkups and pregnancy tests which was the plan for Xeno.

   “I’ll wait in the car. You head in, text me if you need me, okay?” Lillian asked, then throwing a thumbs up to him, “you’ll be okay, darlin’. I know it’s hard. Trust me.”

   Xeno smiled softly at the woman. Her kindness was beyond all else, Byakuya clearly rubbed off on her. He stepped out of the car, making his way inside with just his phone and wallet in his pocket.

   “Good morning!” The blonde receptionist said, her name tag reading ‘Minami’. She was a common face at this clinic and on the local news, “how can I help you?”

    “Hello. I’m Xeno H. Wingfield-Snyder. Here for a checkup and pregnancy test,” Xeno replied. He sounded normal, but inside he was crumbling. His chest hurt from anxiety and his stomach was doing backflips. He so badly wished Stanley was there with him, he was the father of the suspected pup, he deserved to be there. He’d hold Xeno, kiss him and tell him no matter what, they’d be okay. Minami’s voice snapped Xeno out of his daydream of Stanley.

   “Alrighty. I got you booked, just sit there and wait a moment,” Minami replied, pointing to the waiting room seats. She glanced behind Xeno and at the doors for an alpha to come in with him, but nobody showed up. She suspected the story with this male omega was he had a one night stand with an alpha, got knocked up and regretted it. Oh, how wrong she was .

   Xeno sat in the waiting room and picked at his nails for what felt like an eternity, hearing every tick of the clock and the bubbling of the fish tank against the far wall. Still better than white noise.

   “Xeno Wingfield?” A beta nurse finally called out, “follow me, right this way.”

   Xeno followed the woman and was handed a cup, exactly as he suspected. A urine sample.

   “Just urinate into this and we will check your urine for hormones of a pregnancy,” the nurse said, “then we’ll go from there. This is just a basic test.”

   Xeno thanked god he chugged enough water that morning to successfully fill the cup about three quarters of the way, emerging from a nearby bathroom and handing it over. He was left in an examination room and soon the nurse came back in, wheeling a table with her.

  “Sweetie, can you lay down on this bed for me?” She asked, “tell me about yourself. What’s gotten you here this morning?”

   The nurse was preparing equipment, taking out a monitor and what looked to be some sort of scanning instrument. He was going to be checked abdominally for a pup along with his urine.

  “My Alpha and I just finished our heat and rut together over a week ago. I have a complex history of excruciatingly painful and sporadic heats that have caused fertility problems. I’ve been sick these past couple days, so, my.. friend brought me in, just in case,” Xeno replied, his voice getting quiet when he’d have to inevitably mention the alpha who got him there, “my husband is deployed for the marines. He left two days ago before I got super sick.”

   The nurse looked sympathetic towards the omega, rubbing his shoulder, “I know there’s not much I can do for your alpha, but today we’ll get you some closure. I hope for his safe return.”

   “Thank you,” Xeno replied. He lifted his shirt up, exposing his bloated belly and kept his eyes absolutely glued to the monitor. 

   “Some cold gel will be applied, and we’ll have a look,” the nurse said. She spread the gel on Xeno’s stomach, then she applied the device to search the omega’s womb for a tiny sign of life. The screen showed an ultrasound of Xeno’s uterus, and the nurse gasped.

   “Right there, sweetheart,” she pointed to the screen, “There’s a tiny pup in the center of this bubble of fluid. It’s just too tiny to be seen on this screen, but it’s there!” The nurse said, “congratulations on your miracle baby! You’re pregnant!”

  Xeno had to hide his face in his hands to break down crying. It finally happened, he could give Stanley a pup he so badly wanted to give him for years. Those were tears of joy, accomplishment,  fear, and so many more emotions he couldn’t even think to list. He so badly wanted Stanley by his side so his alpha could see the life they created together, which was oh so tiny, so small they could hold their child in the palm of their hands. Stanley would be such a perfect father, he knew that much. Even his claim mark on his neck began to itch and throb because of the emotions Xeno was feeling. 

  Xeno’s sobs filled the room. The nurse handed him a tissue and began printing some of the ultrasound photos and some more paperwork, handing him a towel to wipe the gel off his belly.

   “Due to your complex history, we’re labeling your pregnancy as high risk, Xeno. This is from a combination of things- such as your extreme symptoms which can cause electrolyte and homeostasis issues. You’re now functioning for two. Try to stay hydrated, eat well, avoid drugs and alcohol at all costs, avoid stressors as best you can and lots of bed rest to allow the pup to develop and not risk your own safety as the omega. You’re at a big risk for gestational issues so we’ll take you here or your regular doctor once a week for checkups.”

   Xeno was hardly listening as he sobbed into his arm, another hand on his belly, “oh, j-just print out my homework! This is so much f-for me!”

~

  Xeno left the clinic with a stack of paperwork and the photo of his ultrasound in hand, ready to show Lillian. He got into the car and sat down beside her. The scientist didn’t say a word, he just handed her the papers and she squealed.

   “OH MY, CONGRATULATIONS!” Lillian squealed, hugging Xeno, “oh, darlin’, I know how badly you’ve always wanted this! I’m so happy for you!”

   “Thank you, Lillian. I-I’m just… I’m so… I’m so happy. But I’m also scared. I just wish Stan was here. He’s… the only person I-I want to tell.”

   Xeno hugged the loving woman back, still crying his tears of joy, worry, relief, accomplishment and more- regardless. Now, he’d have a part of Stanley with him in the form of his pup, and he’d never be alone again. 

Chapter Text

Byakuya’s house looked like a skyscraper compared to when Xeno left for the doctor. He had to break the news to his second family after him and Stanley had quietly yearned for a pup of their own over the years. The omega would deal with the emotions and break the news to his husband that he was pregnant later. He had to tell his job, students, mother, father, elder sister, Stanley’s sisters, Stanley’s mother- everyone . He wasn’t sure how much screaming and congratulations he’d be able to hear in one day when he was exhausted . 

   Lillian couldn’t keep the grin off her face, like stitches bursting through the seams as she opened her front door. Byakuya, Senku and Gen were playing Mario Kart in the living room to the right of the foyer together. 

   “Senku! That banana was uncalled for, I’m the guy in 10th!” Byakuya laughed as Gen burst into laughter with him. Senku (Luigi) was totally in the zone with securing his lead, only snickering when he threw even more bananas into the track. Gen, who was hot on his trail as Princess Peach, yelped when he nearly hit one and went off the track. It was such a sweet sight to see, Byakuya considered Gen another child of his. Anyone who loved Senku was also loved by Byakuya.

   “Byakuya! Senku! Gen!” Lillian sang once again, her beautiful voice filling the house, like a grey landscape being painted with a rainbow. 

   “Honey! Come help me kick Senku’s butt!” Byakuya laughed before he nearly choked on his coffee, “wait, you’re home! Boys, stop. There’s good news afloat!”

   Senku groaned when Byakuya had him pause the race. He was one more lap away from a victory and he wouldn’t ever let his boyfriend or father down about kicking their asses in Mario Kart… again. 

   “Senku!” Gen said, nudging his boyfriend, “it’s Xeno-Chan. He’s back.” 

   Senku looked over to the foyer from the couch he was sitting on with Gen beside him, seeing Xeno with a handful of paperwork. The younger alpha scientist was about to get up until Xeno approached him, making sure the imaging papers were facing him so he could present them to the Ishigami family before he was ready. Senku raised a brow and looked at Gen who was all smiles, trying not to giggle. 

   “Senku-Chan’s nervous,” Gen said, looking over at Xeno, “is the news good? Are you okay?”

   Byakuya threw an arm around both boys after squeezing in between them, much to Senku’s dismay. He was never too old for his old man father’s love and affection. Gen hugged Byakuya back, leaning into the touch. Byakuya, Xeno and Stanley were the closest thing he had to parents after he cut contact with his own.

   Xeno’s pokerface went to a smile, a genuine soft smile that he couldn’t keep down. His eyes softened as he flipped the pages over to show the three sitting before him, not once taking his gaze off the pages, until he would see true reactions of the two alphas and omega.

    Gen and Byakuya’s usual expressions immediately lit up into giant smiles, Gen gasping and covering his mouth with both his hands and squealing. 

    “WOOHOO!” Byakuya shouted, throwing his fists in the air in a celebratory manner. Gen’s squeals and Byakuya’s cheering fed into each other, the two hugging. 

   Senku’s reaction had a different aura to it, in that he wasn’t as over the top as his magician boyfriend or hyper dad. His jaw dropped, eyes went wide and then he smiled up at Xeno, the same look in his eyes that the other scientist had.

    “Congrats, man. I know how badly you wanted this,” Senku said.

     “Xeno-Chan, oh my- ah!!, let me hug you!” Gen squealed and cried. He was shedding happy tears with Xeno, throwing his arms over the man’s shoulders and hugging him. The other omega made sure to not hug too tight, he felt like Xeno was a delicate little porcelain doll that he could break if dropped or squished.

   Byakuya was sobbing tears of joy, hugging his son and then dragging poor Senku into the other two, forming a group hug with Byakuya at the center of it all. He rested his chin on top of Xeno’s hair, hair that was usually tidied into a pompadour but was now just down to his shoulders. 

   Lillian jumped into the hug as well, her tears of joy getting all over Xeno’s coat and Byakuya’s sweater. They were welcoming another member of the family born to the Stanley and Xeno. Their pup was going to be a beautiful genius, protected and loved by Stanley and Xeno until the end of time. 

   “Xeno-Chan! Oh my gosh! Congratulations, congratulations!” Gen said, cupping Xeno’s face, “I’ve wanted this for you and Stanley for so long, and it’s ‘inally-fay happening! Oh, Xeno!”

   Everyone in that room knew the happy moment had an underlying layer of pain. The one person who was supposed to be there was absent and on the frontlines of the US marines. Xeno wanted his Alpha there more than anyone else, no offense to his family of course, but only Stanley got him pregnant. It was his pup just as much as it was the omega’s. 

    Xeno buried his face in Gen’s shoulder, hugging the fellow omega and others tighter. The news was a miracle, Xeno couldn’t have been happier, his heart just ached every second Stanley wasn’t there.

   “I… just wish Stan was here,” Xeno’s voice cracked, “he deserves to be here.”

   “Oh, sweetheart, does he know yet?” Lillian asked. A tear rolled down the already over emotional Xeno’s cheek, and the silver haired omega shook his head slowly. Lillian gasped and looked away for a moment.

    “Xeno…oh…” Gen said in a genuine loving voice. He had his hand on Xeno’s cheek, looking into his eyes, “let’s surprise him with the news when he comes home. How does that sound?”

   “Yeah! Let’s do that. Oh, I'm sure he’ll love that,” Lillian insisted to help make Xeno feel better. When an omega in the pack was pregnant, the fellow omegas had to stick together and look out for each other.

   Xeno has relaxed into Gen’s touch, his eyes then opening immediately when his friend had offered the idea to break the news to Stanley. He pondered for a moment, “perhaps… or we could tell him over the phone… but I suppose doing it in person would be more meaningful.”

   Gen smiled at Xeno, looking into his eyes. As two omegas, Gen in need of a parental figure  and Xeno very selectively nurturing to some, the two clicked, “I know. Let’s wait until he comes home, okay? Let us help you and the pup in place of Stanley-Chan until he comes home, hmm?”

   Xeno nodded. Now that his suspicions were correct about the pregnancy, he had to be on bedrest as much as he could. Science was Xeno’s true love (after Stanley) and now his pup had to come above that, too. He’d have to work on his projects from bed, resting and eating healthy. Normally an alpha would care for their omega during a pregnancy and protect them, but Stanley was gone until further notice and didn’t suspect Xeno was pregnant. His health history gave him the same symptoms he experienced during his pregnancy. It was like the world had plotted this all for Xeno, and his body intentionally wanted to throw Stanley off the trail. 

   The mood swings, nausea, emotional vulnerability, longing for his alpha- all were symptoms Xeno experienced in the past, so Stanley, after talking to Xeno on the phone, probably didn’t think twice about a pregnancy. And if he did, Xeno knew Stanley must’ve felt like a caged rat trying to escape back to Japan. Stanley would put up a good fight to see him, Xeno knew that much. He probably regretted leaving as soon as he heard Xeno was sick.

   The omegan scientist had no choice but to lay low until Stanley came home, or he heard from him again. Every day would drag by like molasses until his husband gave him any sort of sign. 

   Xeno ended up back at his home later in the day, dressed in pajamas and sipping some tea instead of coffee for a change, sitting in bed (of course, on Stanley’s side) and opening his laptop. He had to send out an email to his students on his online course and to his work at NASA, both of which he did at home in Japan anyways. 

   The omega was lonely in his mind until he remembered he wasn’t, looking down at his flat stomach and smiling. There was a piece of Stanley with him and the life they created together with their love for one another. He’d enjoy the scrawny scientist size while it lasted, as he was only going to get bigger from this point onward.

Chapter Text

6:35 AM, United States Marine Corps, Captain Stanley Snyder

   While Xeno was at the doctor, Stanley was eating his breakfast in his makeshift bed rather than with Charlotte. He truly didn’t feel like doing anything after he had some of the most pathetic fapping sessions the previous couple nights after seeing Xeno’s exposed hips and stomach on camera. He really did miss his mate… more than he usually did. Xeno sometimes got like this after a bad heat, but never to this caliber. He had to get home . It was eating him alive. The sooner he wiped out the enemy, the faster he could go home. 

    Stanley knew Xeno was to go to the doctor at some point, he had suspected Xeno had already gone. Based on how his claim mark wasn’t throbbing in pain like it was the previous night, Stanley suspected Xeno was okay at that point in time. However, in the middle of the night, Stanley shot up in his cot and slammed his head on the ceiling of the cramped hideout as he held his claim mark from the pain. 

    His claim mark from Xeno’s smaller omega teeth only ached when his omega was very distressed, likely from imminent danger. It couldn’t have been the latter, he would’ve known from Charlotte (she was the one texting Xeno, after all). It was an undeniable fact that something was off with Xeno. The variables of the experiment all fell into place to prove that Stanley’s theory was correct after the previous night.

   The soldier’s mojo would surely be off that day because he knew Xeno wasn’t okay. Stanley had Charlotte text him last night, which may have been his biggest mistake. It sent the omega into a frenzied panic knowing his husband was on the front lines. 

   Still, with a reluctant sigh, Stanley finished the last bite of his breakfast and snatched a cigarette lying in the pocket of his pants on the floor beside his cot. He also picked up his lighter, gifted to him from Xeno for his 30th birthday. It was decorated with Xeno’s trademark ‘X’ on the front. 

   Stanley sat up from his cot, going over to the small window in just his boxers as he took in a big inhale of the bittersweet, calming carcinogens and puffed out a cloud of smoke into the morning sky. The man looked out into the sky and watched some birds fly by, only to be scared away by a stray distant gunshot that instinctively made Stanley duck to avoid getting his head blown to bits. He sighed to himself. 

   “Good fucking god, good morning to you assholes, too,” Stanley sighed. He put the cigarette between his lips to inhale more smoke and hold it in place, then the alpha went over to his pile of clothes to put on his pants. Stanley was buckling his belt when a sharp, shooting pain went up and down his neck from the claim mark. It was so intense, the soldier dropped to his knees and let out a groan of pain. What the hell was happening?! Was Xeno okay? Little did Stanley know, Xeno just got the best news of his life, but his longing for Stanley was suffocating to both him and his alpha, so much so that he was feeling the effects from far away.

  Stanley’s cigarette fell from his lips as he opened his mouth wider for air. The cigarette spread ashes on the floor of the small room Stanley slept in of the base.

  “Xeno!” Stanley shouted, “FUCK!”

5:01 AM, United States Marine Corps, Captain Stanley Snyder

  Cigarette smoke filled the air of the base where a certain blond, tall and feminine looking alpha stood. His gaze wandered over to the window that looked out into the morning sky, still full of stars. He could only think of one thing at that moment, and it was exactly as he told his omega. He’d always be on Stanley’s mind . 

   The alpha took in a rather large inhale of his cigarette to calm his nerves regarding Xeno, his omega, whom he left in a distressed post heat phase of god knows what. 

  “Captain,” the voice of the omega Charlotte Bony quietly echoed, “we just eliminated another target.”

   Charlotte was the only omega, let alone woman, who managed to defy all odds and join the Marines. She was her head honcho’s pride and joy. She was a diamond in the rough, much like Stanley himself was, because of his incredible battle intelligence and skill. 

  “Well done. That’s one more cockroach out of several hundred,” Stanley Snyder sighed, putting out his cigarette on the windowsill in front of him. He was clearly in a mood, but then again, Stanley was always unapproachable. He was especially pissed off because of his situation. 

   “Sir, if it’s about Xeno-“

    “Don’t talk about my mate right now, please. I can’t get myself killed because I’m fucking pining over him!” Stanley barked, “he's already upset with me for coming here on such a short notice. Fuckin’ bastards can kiss my ass. I’ll even bend over.”

   Charlotte gulped as Stanley took out his lighter, engraved with ‘X’ on it. Xeno must’ve made it for him. Then, the alpha took out a cigarette and lit it up, the glow of the lighter casting shadows of his eyelashes down his cheekbone. Charlotte would keep her distance but was well aware of just how protective Stanley was of Xeno. There was a running gag in their squad of Stanley performing better if he would imagine his omega was held captive by whatever unfortunate soul happened to be his enemy. 

   “R-right. Apologies, Captain. M-Maya just-“

   “Oh for fuck’s sake…” the Alpha whispered to himself before going to his usual stoic, strictly elegant business tone, “I’ll be there in 10.”

~ 

   Stanley held his sniper rifle over his shoulder, aligning the scope with his next target who was near their base from the open window. The sniper sharply inhaled as his scope lined up perfectly with his victim’s head. He pulled the trigger causing the person to fall to the ground, motionless.

   “Nice shot, Captain,” Charlotte said, patting the man on the back.

    She truly admired Stanley and his skills. She was mated herself, making her and Stanley a very unlikely duo of friends. Charlotte’s alpha ex worked alongside Xeno in NASA. He was in the states at the time, so Charlotte was able to empathize with Stanley regarding her own partner being in an entirely different continent. She even had a small pup herself from her past relationship, about two years old.

   “Thanks,” Stanley replied, puffing out some smoke from the cigarette between his lips. He pulled the trigger of his gun again, shooting another person in the side of the head. Stanley was the most respected and powerful marksman, able to take out practically any opponent. He felt more justified in killing these people, as they hurt their own civilians. 

   Stanley Snyder was carefully picking off the terrorists that decided to hide out in the Middle East after killing their own civilians and running off to hide in Italy first. He went quicker than usual, as he was a man with a goal; To see his mate again, and be with him forever. 

  The distraction of Xeno lingering in the back of Stanley’s head undoubtedly got into his mojo of things but he still trekked onwards, much to Charlotte’s optimism. She was a great friend to Stanley and even loved Xeno, having hung around him quite a few times and forming a bond with the fellow omega. 

    When Charlotte was pregnant with her own pup, she wasn’t mated and had just slept with another alpha she was dating, before she broke things off with her and ran for the hills. Charlotte was left with her son to care for alone. The omegan soldier didn’t let that break her spirit, she stayed Stanley’s right-hand man and body double if needed.

12:03 AM, United States Marine Corps, Captain Stanley Snyder

   “HEY, ASSHOLE! GIVE IT BACK!” Stanley shouted. He slammed his fists on the door of the bathroom, his higher up laughing his ass off in there. The lock had previously clicked shut and the sound of heavy boots got more and more distant. Stanley was angrier than he had been in a long time, his only opportunity of talking to Xeno ripped right from his hands. Only because his Lieutenant needed it more ? Stanley’s mate was home and sick!

   The old piece of shit had snatched the phone right from Stanley’s hands when the alpha was dialing Xeno’s cell phone number. Rightfully so, Stanley was pissed . The alpha had been comfortable in his cot, shirtless, when he was about to call Xeno. Stanley looked like he was about to go to sleep, bolting there in his favorite pair of sweatpants.

   Stanley pulled a cigarette out from the pocket of his pants and put it between his lips with shaky hands. His anger was coursing through his veins down to the tips of his fingers, hopefully a smoke would help calm his nerves. The pheromones of the alpha filled the room, his anger and protectiveness in an almost constant overdrive. He flicked his ‘X’ decorated lighter and lit up his cigarette, puffing a big cloud of smoke before going back to slamming his fist on the door.

    “OPEN UP!” The alpha shouted, “give me that fucking phone, you pieces of shit! I have a mate back home who needs me!”

   One of the older higher ups finally poked their head from out the door to face Stanley and with the snarky, condescending tone spoke, “Snyder, I suggest you do something more useful than barking like the dog you are for your omega. Go to bed .”

    “Oh, FUCK YOU! Let me talk to my mate!” Stanley shouted, putting his boot between the door and its doorway, stopping the old fuck from running. He looked the man in uniform directly in the eyes.

    “Move, before I make you,” Stanley snarled.

    “I will forcefully remove you myself if I have to, Snyder. Step back,” the man said.

    “Make me,” Stanley replied with a smirk, then closing his right fist by his waist and bringing his hand up, his fist colliding with the man’s face. Stanley truly had no idea what had gotten into him. He was in alpha autopilot, like this man was a physical barrier between himself and seeing Xeno for what could be the last time.

   Stanley barged into the room, surrounded by experienced higher ups of the military who had the phone and were taking turns talking to their omegas back home. The alpha stopped dead in his tracks with wide eyes when he realized he was fucked. His alpha side had somewhat taken over when presented with the golden opportunity to use the precious phone. Surely enough, Stanley’s world went dark when he was punched on the side of the head.

 The next morning, 7:17 AM, USMC Captain Stanley Snyder

    “He’s waking up, quiet, now.”

    “No he’s not. He’s barely moving.”

    “Shut up, Leonard! He’s coming to.”

   The hushed voices of Stanley’s comrades were what he woke up to, his mascara covered lashes fluttering open. He looked up at Charlotte, Leonard and Carlos with half lidded eyes. Where was he? What happened? What time was it?

   “I… mmm… where’s.. the phone?” The alpha asked.

   Stanley then shot up with wide eyes in his cot when the realization hit him.

    Oh, right . He punched a higher up in the face the previous night. It was like they were Xeno’s high school bullies all over again. Maybe that was what triggered him to react the way he did…

   “Fuck,” Stanley said, “fuck, fuck, fuck!”

   The alpha rubbed his bruised temple, also sporting a black eye and a bruise on his stomach. He must’ve been beaten to hell just for assaulting that piece of shit, who nabbed the phone right from him!

   “Hey, hey, Stanley,” Charlotte said with a soft smile, putting a hand on his shoulder, “only a few more days until you get to go home.”

   “Yeah! You get to go home early, lucky,” Leonard remarked, handing Stanley the ice pack that the trio had brought with them. Stanley put the ice on his midsection, sighing. He messed up and he knew it, but he’d do anything for Xeno. He’d kill the entire world for his husband.

Two days later, 8:34 PM, taking plight- USMC Captain Stanley Snyder 

   Stanley awoke one morning, his muscle memory nearly kicking in as he attempted to reach for Xeno who would’ve been laying beside him, until he recalled he wasn’t home with his mate, but at the base, alone… Stanley sighed, sitting up in his bunk bed and running a hand through his blond hair. 

    Today was the day- the day he’d board his plane and take plight with Charlotte as co-pilot to scope out the enemy base. The alpha looked down at his left hand to see his wedding ring still on his finger, much to his General’s dismay. He always said if Stanley kept wearing a ring, he’d be going home with one less finger to “send his omega to heaven” with. 

   Stanley got up from the bed and grabbed his pants, slipping them on and rubbing the pocket to feel for his pack of cigarettes. A wave of relief rushed over him when he felt several still in the pack. 

   The alpha threw on his belt, buckling it into place over his pants. He sighed at the sight of the faint bruises on his stomach before throwing on a T-shirt and his Marine uniform for the flight. He then slipped on his combat boots, tying them tight.

~

   “Mornin’,” Charlotte said as she exited her tent, approaching Stanley with the plane keys and safety gear. She patted his back, noticing something was off again with the alpha. He wasn’t himself lately. 

   “Hey,” Stanley said, grabbing his cigarette and blowing out a cloud of smoke. He had his other hand casually shoved in his pocket. 

   “Everything okay? Your eye is looking better. Still, We can’t have our Captain off his game today!” Charlotte joked, “but on a serious note, let’s talk about it later, okay?”

   “Sure,” Stanley replied, shrugging. If it was going to be anyone who’d know his problems after Xeno, it was Charlotte, or his older sister, Phoebe. But his sister had two young pups to raise, and Xeno’s heat problems weren’t exactly on the top of her daily ‘to worry’ list, even if Stanley’s two sisters absolutely adored Xeno.

   “Have some breakfast and meet me over at the runway,” Charlotte said, handing Stanley a muffin to eat, then leaning in to whisper to him, “enjoy it, it’s stolen.” 

   Stanley snorted, “will do. Thanks.”

~

   The Captain made his way to the runway, his trusty sniper rifle over his back and cigarette between his black stained lips. Stanley often used different lip shades but preferred black for days like these. He took a long drag of his cigarette, and his mind began to wander into a world where he often visited.

   “ Stan… what~?”, “mmm… touch me more, there, Stan,” the voice of his mate echoed in his head as Stanley walked. His cock couldn’t get hard with thoughts of Xeno, especially in front of his friend. He imagined Xeno on all fours, perky and cute ass in front of him as Stanley licked all around his ass, pussy, and cock. All of his omega’s private areas were able to be sexually stimulated and it was all fair game to the alpha.

   “Ah~!” Xeno moaned, feeling Stanley’s tongue work into his pussy . One day, just maybe, Stanley would see Xeno give birth to a pup from him in that same area. Stanley would dream of such a day from time to time, but he didn’t lie when he said he was happy with just his mate. When he did dream of having a pup, he’d watch Xeno’s belly grow, cook for him, rub his feet, cuddle him, take him to every appointment, and kiss Xeno’s belly where his pup was. 

  Stanley snapped out of the daydream when he tripped over a small dip in the grass, stumbling forward and catching himself before he could fall flat on his face. His eyes were wide and cigarette on the ground from his near death encounter.

  “Hey! Be careful!” Charlotte shouted from the plane, “come on, lover boy! No more bruises, and no sleeping on the ground when you have your omega to get home to!”

   That knocked Stanley right back into gear, grabbing a new cigarette and lighting that one up. He broke out into a jog to get to the plane and get the show on the road. He was embarrassed, his face a light pink from the dirty thoughts and Charlotte watching him nearly eat shit over his own foot and patch of grass.

   Stanley dropped his rifle off into the back, getting into the cockpit of the plane, adjusting until he was comfortable in his seat. He didn’t say anything to Charlotte at first, hoping she wouldn’t bring up the whole tripping incident. The alpha put on his headgear, buckling himself into the plane and flipping various switches to get controls and the engine going. 

   “Captain?” Charlotte asked to break the awkward silence, “you haven’t been yourself. Let’s talk.” 

   Stanley glanced over at the omega woman, then back at the front of the plane. He had to take a moment to think of what to say.

   “Xeno’s not okay,” Stanley said, “I shouldn’t have come here. I felt like an even bigger dick the day I left him than I usually do.”

   “You guys are mated, so I get that,” Charlotte replied, smiling and looking down at her lap, “I wonder what it’s like.”

   Stanley paused from flipping switches and grabbing the controls, looking over at Charlotte with a bit of shock at how open she was being with him and the timing of it all. It wasn’t unheard of that the two friends had deep conversations like that, but the time and place was a bit, well.. unusual. They had some time to kill as Stanley would be flying the plane for about an hour.

   “You just gotta find the right person, Char,” Stanley replied, not taking his eyes off the landscape in front of him, “I just got lucky. Xe and I had known each other since we were kids. Our moms were friends.”

   “Wow…” Charlotte replied, “I… that’s amazing. Was he always like that? How he is now?”

   Stanley snorted to himself, a cloud of smoke coming out of his cigarette as he let out the exhale of the laugh, “yeah, pretty much. Science was his first love, not me. If you can believe it.”

   Charlotte chuckled to herself. She looked back down at her lap shyly, Stanley steering the plane as he took off from the airport. There was an aura of sadness and pining coming from the man, Charlotte looking to Stanley’s partially exposed claim mark on his neck.

   “Sounds like him,” Charlotte replied with a chuckle, “how has he been, by the way? Xeno, I mean… I haven’t seen him in awhile.”

   “Loaded question, there, kid,” Stanley said with a smirk, looking over to Charlotte for a brief second and back to the skies. He watched the sky in front of him, the rhythmic sound of the propellers and machinery overpowering any sound of passing winds.

   “He just… he’s been super over emotional ‘n shit. Cryin’, and he did just have a good heat with my rut, so… I dunno. Probably more to do with his heats, chronic health issues and how damn sporadic it all can be. I’m sure he’ll be fine when I’m home.”

   “Is he… well… is there a pup, do you think?” Charlotte asked. Stanley’s cigarette fell from his lips onto his boot, he lifted his foot and crushed it, the plane swerving as shock set into Stanley. There was trauma there, for sure, and Charlotte felt terrible for asking him.

   “Charlotte… Come on, damn it, asking me this right now?” Stanley asked, “I fuckin’ doubt it. He could’ve had twenty of my kids by now. Doesn’t matter. Don’t make me crash this shitbox plane.”

    Charlotte could tell she struck a particularly sensitive spot with Stanley and didn’t want to pry. Clearly there was some emotional baggage there that was better left to collect dust by her.

   Charlotte put a hand on Stanley’s shoulder, “but it’s possible. Get him tested when you get home and text me how it goes. And be safe! Hey, let’s talk about those boots I saw at Macy’s last time we went with Brody. I wanted to get you some of those.”

   Stanley was very grateful for the change in conversation. He couldn’t even think about the possibility of Xeno having any other condition aside from the stomach bug. He’d worry about it when he wasn’t flying a plane. 

   “Char, those were fucking 200 dollars. In my wildest dreams would I ever buy those! Knowing my luck, I’d get shot in them the first day I wear ‘em.”

   “But they were totally your style!” Charlotte laughed, “I say we should’ve waited for when they were on sale. And we both know, Captain, you’re not getting shot anytime soon. Not when you have to get home.”

   Stanley turned and glared daggers at Charlotte, puffing out cigarette smoke. He jerked the plane slightly due to his frustration and homesickness.

   “Not. Now,” he snarled, “I’m already pissed off enough.”

    “R-right. I’m sorry.”

Chapter Text

Three days later, Eve of the mission home, 10:44 AM, USMC Captain Stanley Snyder

   “Captain Snyder, this way!”

    Stanley was in full gear, rifle in hand as he followed his squad through the mud and trees to detect the leader's enemy. They couldn’t detain these people and therefore were left with no choice but to kill them. 

   Stanley peered by a tree, watching for any sudden movements in the forest. He was completely in the zone of his marine wired brain; follow the orders, complete the mission, command his squad and no mercy. Every man for himself. 

   Xeno… Xeno lingered in the back of his mind that very moment. He couldn’t not think about his husband, his mate, how his lips tasted or how his hips looked under his fancy shirts…or how sick and emotional he was, and if he was really going to be okay. The thought of Charlotte’s suspicions being right lingered but Stanley doubted them, he had to doubt them so as to not get emotional. 

 Stanley snapped out of it, blinking his lashes swiftly and looking straight ahead. Deep down, he was cursing himself for the distraction of his mate.

   The blond alpha hunted the escapee like a predator stalking its prey. It was an older guy, about 50’s, who still had quite the spring in his step. He was accompanied by a younger man who followed him like a shadow. Stanley saw them running in his direction, preparing for battle. He drew his knife from the holster on his thigh and popped out from behind the tree, swinging it right towards the younger man’s direction. He knew he’d be the problem, the older man’s age getting to be his downfall.

   “Moz!” The older man shouted, “kill him, kill this runt! What a phony alpha you are!” 

   The old man cackled as Moz was totally caught off guard at first, but he swatted at Stanley, hitting his rifle to the ground. He drew his own knife, then swung at Stanley. He was fast . Stanley dodged the attack, going to attack the older man with a low swing kick and swiftly taking him out by his knees so he could grab his gun.

   “MOZ!” The old man cried, holding his knee, “Kill him!!”

   Stanley dove for his gun and then blew the stray strand of hair from his eye, looking over to Moz with a scowl. He pointed the barrel of his rifle at the man. These were the people killing their own… it sickened him. Moz lunged to Stanley, attempting to stab the man right in the gut. Stanley dodged, falling back on his ass and then as quickly as he fell, regaining himself as his gun met Moz’s forehead. Xeno…. What was he doing right now? Was he okay? Was Charlotte right?

   Moz smirked, leaning in, “we have you surrounded. Too bad. You’re strong, I like you… oh, Kirisame!”

   Moz looked over his shoulder, when a woman absolutely sprinted down the path from where the beach was. She had something in her hand tied to a rope, but Stanley couldn’t react in time as she threw it towards him. 

    He saw Xeno’s face amidst the morning sunlight as his life flashed before his eyes... Xeno . Why did he see him everywhere? What was going on with Stanley? It was like Xeno was there with him for a brief second, rambling about his love of science and then sneaking a kiss to Stanley. The pining thoughts of Xeno were enough of a distraction for the soldier in the midst of combat.

   Kirisame’s diversion tactic was the perfect storm; Stanley’s gaze was off Moz just long enough for Moz to plunge his knife deep into the side of Stanley’s abdomen. 

   “AGHH!!” Stanley cried, reacting quickly by smacking the back of his gun to Moz’s head, knocking him unconscious and splattering blood on the nearby tree. Moz’s hand was still on the knife in the side of his belly, and his fall made him twist it while it was still in Stanley’s stomach. 

   “Oh, oh fuck! FUCK!” Stanley cried. Tears from the excruciating pain formed in his eyes, his legs trembling and hands shaking over the blade sticking from his stomach. He kicked Moz off him, noticing what Kirisame was about to throw just ahead of him was a grenade, he panicked. She pulled the pin and that gave Stanley a golden window to get up, grab his gun, and run . His run was staggered and messy, but full of desperation to survive.

   Run , because Xeno’s life depended on him.

   Run , because he always promised to come home.

   Run , because Senku and Gen needed him to be a good uncle.

  Run , because his pup, whom he had no idea existed yet, needed its father.

   Stanley heard the explosion from just ahead of the area he ran from, looking over his shoulder to see the collateral damage. He wasn’t paying attention to his surroundings in front of him, causing the alpha to trip over one of the many obstacles of greenery surrounding him and falling down a steep hill of dirt, tree roots, and some rocks. All he saw in his mind was Xeno, hearing his voice and seeing his beautiful face under the alpha’s own eyelids every time he blinked and got a face full of leaves and dirt.

   “AH! FUCK! Fuck, fuck! Oh my god! I need b-backup!” Stanley shouted in agony, “Charlotte!”

   The world spinning and blurring around him. All he felt was pain in his whole body, 

     He couldn’t do it anymore, blood was dripping from his wound. He failed . He’d never see Xeno again if he truly was going to die here. 

   Stanley had long since fallen to the ground and didn’t get back up, yet not without hearing the clattering of boots and several gunshots from his squad who diverted from his path before. The squad went after Moz and his gang, but Charlotte chose to stay behind with another soldier, named Carlos.

   “CAPTAIN!” Charlotte’s muffled scream echoed, “oh my gosh… no! N-no!”

   Charlotte knelt beside Stanley. She held his head in her lap, assessing the damage of the wound and if Stanley was even still with her. The knife was partially plunged in the side of Stanley’s abdomen but seemed to have missed his spine; he was running as normally as he could before. Charlotte was not going to remove the weapon much like Stanley didn’t to prevent more blood loss. 

   The omega was strong, capable and tough, but she had to get Stanley to safety and could only think of one way to be able to do that without getting herself killed. 

   “Carlos! Cover me, now!” Charlotte ordered, then kneeling down to Stanley. His claim mark on his neck was slightly reddened which could only mean one thing… Xeno was feeling Stanley was in trouble. The woman tried her best to ignore that undeniable fact and used all the strength she could, picking up Stanley herself and beginning to bolt behind Carlos through the woods. If Stanley couldn’t get back to Xeno, Charlotte would make absolutely sure that he does. She loved Xeno and Stanley not just as a couple, but as people. She wouldn't be able to live without constant shadows of guilt if they didn’t get to see each other again all because of her suggestion of calling Stanley for backup while he was home with Xeno.

   Stanley was slipping in and out of consciousness. His mind only went to Xeno and his well-being. He wondered what his omega was up to at that very moment… he was probably working on his rocket, eating a fresh home cooked meal or writing a lecture for his students… the alpha smiled to himself at the thought of Xeno before he finally fell into a deep unconscious sleep. 

   Xeno, in that moment

  The omega Xeno was laying in his bed, sleeping quietly, clutching Stanley’s pillow. His hair was sprawled all out and over the pillow, still not in the usual pompadour he adorned because of his morning sickness knocking him out. His doctor said he was about two weeks pregnant with his and Stanley’s pup. It must’ve been conceived on the first days of his heat and of Stanley’s rut, making it all the more special and intimate. 

  Xeno sat up in bed, rubbing his eyes. He needed to pee, so the omega begrudgingly shuffled over to the bathroom and did what he had to do. On this day, he wanted to call his family back home and tell them the news. He had to tell someone , and his mother would be absolutely elated that Stanley and Xeno would finally have a baby of their own.

   Xeno emerged from the bathroom, heading back to bed and grabbing his phone on the bedside table. He was practically making himself at home on Stanley’s side of the bed and wearing his clothes. He even built a little nest for himself and to show Stanley when he was to come home. Xeno opened his phone and his finger hovered over the contact saved of his mother. He dropped his phone after he realized what was happening.

    His hand began to shake, a sharp pain coming from his claim mark. He began to cry, holding his neck and writhing in pain. What was happening to Stanley?! Xeno’s mind immediately went to the worst possible outcome- Stanley was dead , or dying on the battlefield.

   “STAAAN!” Xeno wailed, tears immediately rolling down his cheeks, “Stanley Snyder!”

   Xeno could only imagine how the pup was feeling. He cried as he held his claim mark, and he decided to reach for his phone and make a call to someone else. Xeno couldn’t leave his bed in his current condition, he needed someone there with him. Naturally, he went to call his dear friend Asagiri Gen, who was named “Gen Cat-agiri”, and mashed the call button.

   The phone began to ring for a few moments, like Gen was busy with his hands on other things and had to nimbly snatch his phone to answer his friend and father figure.

   “Xe… no… Chan!” Gen panted, “so ‘orry-say for my delayed response… what can I do?”

   “GEN!” Xeno shouted, “STAN’S DYING!!”

   “Huh-?!” Gen gasped, “Xeno-Chan, you’re not… thinking right! How do… you know? Did someone… tell you?” 

   Xeno heard a quiet voice in the back of presumably Senku, asking something along the lines of what was going on.

   “No! B-but… my claim mark! It’s aching horribly, like a living nightmare!” Xeno cried hysterically. He felt bad putting this on those two kids, but he didn’t know who else to go to that was close by who wasn’t an acquaintance at best.

   “Shhhh, sweetie, relax,” Gen said. Xeno heard clothes moving in the background and Senku’s voice again, husky. He must’ve called while the two were fucking or something and he had absolutely no idea. Perhaps it was Gen’s heat, or Senku’s rut. At that moment, if Xeno were thinking logically, he’d feel bad or even dirty, like he walked in on the act between two people he saw as family . But he didn’t . The scientist didn’t give a fuck at all. All he wanted to know was if Stan was okay.

   “We’ll come over in 15, okay, Xeno-Chan?” Gen asked, “hang in there~!”

   Xeno heard a grumble of annoyance from Senku on the other end, “goddamnit, mentalist, I’ve still got a boner here.”

   “Shhh, Senku-Chan! Get your stuff and let’s go!” Gen said, “see you in 15 Xeno-Chan!”

   Gen then hung up. He was in a rush and seemed frazzled. Xeno wanted to be the priority, Senku’s raging pheromones could wait. Those damn alphas… such knotheads when they wanted to be.

   Xeno fell back onto the pillows, still clutching Stanley’s pillow to his chest and sobbing. His neck still ached horribly, the pain pulsating through the whole mark from where Stanley sunk his teeth all those years ago. 

    Well, there went his plans of telling his mother the good news .

Chapter Text

  “Xeno-Chan!” Gen’s voice called from outside Xeno’s porch door as he knocked, “it’s Senku and I, we’re coming in!”

   Xeno sat up in bed, still in tears as he clutched Stanley’s pillow and held his phone- he was awaiting the dreadful call that would likely come from Charlotte regarding his husband. He hoped Senku and Gen would be like rays of sunshine to him on this rainy day. But somehow, he doubted it- because they weren’t Stanley .

  Gen and Senku (who was following reluctantly) approached Xeno as he was sitting on the bed. Gen sat down on the bed right with him, ushering Senku with a quick hand gesture to do the same and join them. Not a single member of the family could be left behind in times like these, especially while Xeno had a pup to grow inside him. When Senku sat down on the bed, Xeno could smell Gen’s heat and scent all over the two of them. He felt even worse for interrupting because they must’ve been having heat sex when he called Gen, the omega in question, in a panic. 

   “I-it’s horrible, i-i- Stan… what i-If he’s-“

   “Stanley-Chan is the last person who would lay down and die just because someone told him to,” Gen said, putting a finger to Xeno’s lips to silence his overthinking and overactive mind.

   “That’s right. He’s the most determined and loyal geezer I’ve seen, that’s for sure,” Senku snorted, his arms folded over his long and baggy hoodie. “He’ll be fine. Probably just scratched his leg or something and was in pain.”

   “And! Stanley-Chan made you a promise. I don’t think he’s ever going to back down on that, when you’re his ‘ate-may~” Gen assured Xeno, “Stanley-Chan could be shot and bleeding out and I think he’d still crawl his way home to you.”

  Xeno forced himself to smile, nodding. That was his Stan, after all. He wasn’t one to go down without a fight. Still, his heart ached for his mate and prayed that he’d be okay. 

   “Also think of the pup, Xeno-Chan,” Gen said, taking Xeno’s hands into his own, “don’t stress yourself too badly. This is a gift and it does take an ‘illage-vay to raise a baby~” 

   “Especially Stanley’s kid,” Senku deadpanned, “kinda hoping it’s a girl for that reason, so she can’t scare us as badly. Unless she starts throwing science facts at the mentalist over here.”

   Xeno, Gen and Senku all chuckled together at the lighthearted joke. It was all in good fun, they could handle a little jabbing at one another. When it came to Stanley, he was as beautiful as he was terrifying and intimidating.

   Stanley was a prideful kid back in his high school days and Xeno knew that. Before they started dating, Stanley had a few flings and lost his virginity to a cheerleader girl he was dating for awhile, then slept with another girl on the volleyball team until he fell in love with Xeno. He was a masterful marksman with a lot of experience and that was what ultimately made him decide to become a marine, despite Xeno’s pleading with him not to.

   “Xeno’s 10 billion percent daydreaming about Stanley,” Senku said to Gen, which made Xeno snap out of the memory. He sniffled, wiping some of his tears away and looking over at his phone. No texts from Stanley or Charlotte yet, unfortunately.

   “Hm. Oh! I have an idea~!” Gen sang, throwing a hand in the air like he had a question. 

   “Let’s hear it, mentalist,” Senku replied. He looked over at Xeno, who nodded- he was going to go along with the plan.

   “Why don’t we go to a breakfast restaurant and eat? That way Xeno-Chan won’t be alone!” Gen suggested.

    “You know what? That’s not an awful idea,” Senku replied with a smile, “what do you think, Xeno?” 

   Xeno nodded once more. His emotions were suffocating him, like he was being held underwater and he couldn’t scream for help from the one person he needed the most. He rubbed his belly, getting up from the bed first to go over to his dresser and get a shirt and slacks to wear.

   “Alright. I suppose we can, I just-“

   “Xeno-Chan. No fancy wear, just us, in our pajamas!” Gen insisted, hopping off the bed like an overexcited kid to hug Xeno over the shoulders from behind. He really knew how to be a positive force and life of the party when he wanted to be. One mask of the many that Asagiri Gen had.

   “Oh- I-“ Xeno stuttered, then turned to look at Gen and Senku. Senku was in a long hoodie and loose pajama pants, and Gen was in a purple satin tank top pajama set with matching shorts. He was in heat, so his body temperature was higher than it usually was. 

  “Oh, and apologies for my scent everywhere… I’m in heat,” Gen said, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. He knew of all people, a pregnant omega would be able to tell.

  “I know. At least you aren’t pregnant. It’s not very fun thus far,” Xeno chuckled, “perhaps I’ll get my breakfast to go. Is that alright?”

    “Xeno! Shucks, don’t leave us!” Gen pouted, “we’re going to cheer you up!”

  Xeno saw the puppy eyes Gen was giving him and with a reluctant sigh, gave in and decided to go. He was in one of the many t-shirts that Stanley owned, the one Xeno was wearing containing a forest scenery from a national park they visited in Montana back home in the United States. For bottoms, Xeno wore some of his own black loose fitting short-shorts. He didn’t feel like getting hit on, so he changed them to a longer pair of shorts in the same color. 

    He couldn’t fit in Stanley’s pants because the soldier had a much larger and more muscular waist than the scrawny omegan scientist. Though Xeno’s wide hips could usually keep up the pants. Usually , they did. Especially when Xeno wore his corsets, which he would be unable to do for a long time.

   Xeno shuddered at the memories and grabbed a sweater from his and Stanley’s closet, then joined the two boys who were promptly waiting for him at the door leading to his porch. He was somewhat dreading this outing but also glad he wasn’t the only one going in pajamas. He grabbed his scent blocking collars on the way out, handing one to Gen to throw on and buckling the other around his neck. He didn’t care that he was mated, he didn’t need anyone knowing he was a recently knocked up omega or that Gen was in heat.

   The trio piled into Gen’s black car parked in Byakuya’s driveway and began the trek to a nearby breakfast spot in town to eat brunch. Xeno was internally dying because of the lingering thoughts of Stanley’s injuries in the back of his mind. For the sake of his pup, he couldn’t stress too badly about it, or he’d give birth then and there. His pup was defenseless and tiny, Stanley was a grown man and capable alpha who could take care of himself. It hurt Xeno to push the files of his thoughts regarding Stanley in the back of the filing cabinet but it had to be done for the time being.

   Gen parked towards the back of the lot to avoid any unwanted alphas hitting on Xeno or Gen himself. He stepped out of the car, Xeno and Senku following when they approached the diner. Thank gosh they had an alpha in their party, because Gen and Xeno were fresh prey on the menu for the alphas there. 

    The three took a booth seat towards the back and Xeno ordered a decaf black coffee (that was quite elegant), scrambled eggs and home fries to go with it. Gen got pancakes with blueberries and butter, a cinnamon roll with icing, an espresso and bacon. Senku got coffee with cream, and a ham omelette with sausage and bacon on the side. The three were peacefully eating and talking of Xeno’s students, Senku’s projects, Gen’s last gigs at work, and more life updates to help the older scientist distract his mind. Eventually, the conversation did wind up back to Stanley. He was a huge part of Xeno’s life, after all.

   “Stan was hit on by one of my students during a video call for tutoring purposes. Needless to say, that student was privately emailed by Stan and dropped my class the next day,” Xeno chuckled, sipping his coffee. 

    “Sounds about right. He probably mentioned clawing their eyes out. That’s a favorite of his,” Gen giggled, “I can’t wait to see his face when you tell him, Xeno-Chan.”

   Xeno sighed, running a hand through his neatly down hair, “I doubt he’ll want anyone around aside from the two of us. No offense, I just…”

   “Nah, we get it,” Senku shrugged, “it’s a big thing for him and it’s important to you guys to get this chance.”

   “He may not show it, but Stanley-Chan is definitely going to be a good dad,” Gen said, “he already takes such good care of all of us~!”

   Gen saw the somber and pining expression all over Xeno’s face. He felt bad basically taking care of Stanley’s pregnant wife for him (of course, Stanley himself didn’t know that) until he came home. It was poor timing all around. 

   Xeno, Senku and Gen split the bill three times around once they finished their meal and made their way back outside to the parking lot. Naturally, Xeno was not himself at that moment and probably still let off a faint smell and aura despite his scent blocking collar. He usually wore two, one was on Gen’s neck, however.

   “I’m gonna go take a piss. I’ll meet you guys at the car,” Senku said at the bathrooms, which were near the exit to the diner. Gen nodded and kissed him on the cheek much to Senku’s dismay of it being in public.

   “Okay, honey, see you at the car~” Gen said with a smirk, knowing it drove Senku nuts when he flirted in public.

   “Whatever,” Senku replied, secretly smirking to himself after the alpha’s bathroom door shut. Goddamnit, Gen . That was not a good time to pop a boner.

   That left the two omegas to head back to the car alone. It was broad daylight and some people were walking down the sidewalk, cars were passing and stores surrounded them. They weren’t in any immediate danger by any means.

   “I knew I faintly smelled two omegas here. Hey, you two! You can come back home with me! Especially you, Gen!”

   Gen and Xeno spun around to see a blond, tall and muscular alpha behind them with a smaller beta man with him, presumably a wimpy friend.

   “Oh, Magma-Chan. It’s you,” Gen said nonchalantly, “we’re not interested, so ‘orry-say~”

    Gen put an arm around Xeno’s waist protectively. As a more experienced omega who had slept with many other people, Gen was an expert at manipulating alphas and getting them to leave him alone.

   “We’re going to pick this one’s mate up at the airport, so I’ll have to decline your kind offer as well~”

    Magma sighed, he then approached Xeno and smirked as he got right into the omega’s face, “aren’t you cute? You might actually be cuter than Gen.”

    Magma leaned into Xeno’s neck to attempt to scent him better, Gen instinctively and swiftly yanking Xeno back close to him instinctively and shouting the only thing he knew he could. Xeno hugged Gen back as he panicked internally. Where the hell was Senku?

    “ALPHA!! Please, don’t hurt me!” Gen cried dramatically, pretending to shed tears as he hugged Xeno.

    Xeno was quite distraught himself, hugging Gen back. He was truly a natural at this, able to ward off alphas no problem with his vulgar words. But if Stanley was there? He’d have kicked Magma and his stupid friend in the asses so badly that they’d be having a double funeral.

   “Hey!” Senku barked. He wasn’t the most intimidating alpha by any means, but he was still an alpha. Senku wasn’t like other alphas because he hardly succumbed to his instincts and didn’t appear big, burly or scary. If anything, most mistakenly refer to him as a beta, until he wound offhandedly mention a rut or his soon-to-be mate.

   “Senku-Chan! Oh, dear. Help us!” Gen cried, running into his alpha’s arms in the parking lot of a diner like they were in the scene of a movie. He jumped into Senku’s arms, kissing him and turning to Magma, who was already running back to his car.

  Senku, another alpha, was enough to ward Magma and his friend back to their car and speed off after trying to pick up yet another one night stand with Gen or any other omegas. Sadly, that wasn’t the first time that happened to Gen or Xeno and certainly wouldn’t be the last.

   Xeno turned to the lovers and sighed. He truly craved Stanley in that moment more than anyone else. He needed him there to kick Magma’s ass. He may never see that man again, but if he did, he’d send his dog after him.

~

   “Let him rest, Senku-Chan,” Gen whispered, turning to his boyfriend. Senku yawned, sitting in Stanley’s beanbag chair in the living room as he listened to Xeno’s quiet snores that were undoubtedly rubbing off on him. He put his pompadour back together and slept in it like it was no problem, like the man invented it. 

   “Alright. What do we do, then?” Senku asked, looking up at his omega as Gen approached him. Senku reached up to play with the string of his satin shorts by his crotch, and Gen smirked.

   “Take a nap, duh!” Gen giggled, yawning, “I’m sooo ‘ired-tay~ mmm…” 

   Gen stretched his arms up, then went over to the sofa as he stretched to get the pullout couch situated so he could get some sleep with Senku. They agreed to stay with Xeno in case of any emergencies regarding Stanley’s wellbeing and in that moment, they had some time to kill.

  Senku stood up from the beanbag chair and peered into Xeno and Stanley’s bedroom. He saw the older omega asleep in the middle of his bed, Stanley’s pillow pulled to his chest as he  snored softly. The alpha quietly shut the sliding wooden door of the bedroom completely to block out any noise they’d make. Because hell if he wasn’t going to sleep before doing a quickie with Gen.

   Gen was already laying on the sofa, in a seductive pose showing his hips to Senku and his arms above his head. He yawned again, stretching his whole body out and ‘accidentally’ lifted some of his tank top up to show his stomach.

   “Senku-Chan, I’m absolutely dead tired~” Gen whined, “and horny~”

   “Say no more,” Senku replied, sliding off his hoodie and t-shirt before he climbed on top of Gen. The two were making out no longer after that, Gen sliding his hands up and down Senku’s ass. Senku was feeling all around Gen’s body, one hand cupping his face and the other going to his chest, fondling his nipples and then making their way down to his crotch and fingering him. Slick from his body was all over Gen’s underwear and dripping between his legs, ready for Senku. 

   “Agh!” Gen gasped a bit too loudly, slapping a hand on his mouth as he mentally punched himself for being too loud while nearly having sex on Xeno and Stanley’s couch, of all people. With a pout, Gen pushed Senku below him and slid off his shorts and underwear. He then knelt down to Senku’s crotch, palming his erection through his pajamas and then sliding them down with his boxers enough to allow his dick to pop right out. 

   Senku reacted with gasps and quiet moans the whole time, his breath only hitching when Gen lowered himself on his cock. 

   Gen was riding Senku with lust, love, passion and seduction as the two were making out between the thrusts and touching each other all over. It was as sinful as it had to be secretive, even if it was on the couch of some of their best friends.

  Senku had knotted the omega with no issues and fell asleep on the couch before he took his cock out. Gen was highly annoyed by this, having to remove Senku’s cock from his ass and put his own clothes back on, then slide up Senku’s pants and climb in beside him. Senku not wearing his shirt might be questioned, but sex possibly wouldn’t be Xeno’s go to answer because of their positive track record.

   Gen was asleep as quickly as Senku was, especially glad to be on birth control at that moment- he didn’t want to end up with Xeno’s luck and find out while he was doing a show or something. The two younger lovers slept on the pullout couch with the pregnant omega in his bedroom, anxiously awaiting a phone call that may never come.

Chapter Text

1 ½ hours Later

  Xeno was awoken to the sound and feeling of a vibration under his elbow. His peaceful dream was soon shaken to a halt as he saw the name of the contact. Charlotte . Why was she calling him and not Stanley himself?  He was so close to getting Stanley home and all to himself again!

  With shaky hands, the omega picked up the phone and swiped to answer the call. He had to fight back his tears of anxiety.

   “Good evening, Dr. Xeno. It’s Charlotte here. Your husband, Stanley, is home. I brought him by plane myself,” Charlotte said, “he’s waiting for you at the Tokyo hospital. He should be out of surgery any minute. He went in for an abdominal stab wound, minor concussion and broken ankle. He may be a bit delirious from the medications but otherwise okay and was nonstop asking for you, dear.”

   Xeno almost dropped his phone then and there. He had to put it on speaker so he could break down in tears and not have to worry about accidentally ending the call. Charlotte surely heard the sobs of her fellow omega, an omega she once viewed as competition for Stanley’s heart.

   “Charlotte… th-thank you,” Xeno choked out, “th-thank you so m-much, truly!”

   Charlotte smiled to herself, happy she was able to get these two reunited. Xeno would drive way above the speed limit and run the occasional red light here and there, but he’d do anything to see his alpha in that moment and make sure he got himself and his pup there unharmed.

   “I’ll be there in an hour… I-I… thank you, Charlotte… y-you made it so… I can see Stan again!” Xeno cried, “is he okay? Wh-what did you say he’s d-doing now?”

    “He’s in surgery at the moment, but was asking for you on the way and while he was being wheeled in. He’s a tough one for sure,” Charlotte replied, “he’ll likely be done by the time you get here. Just drive safe, okay? Don’t do anything stupid. We can’t have you both in here.”

    “Charlotte, I have to. I-I have to drive carefully because I’m pregnant!” Xeno blurted out, then gasping when he realized what he had said. He heard Charlotte gasp and then the smile was echoing in her tone on the other end.

    “I knew it,” she said, then laughing, “congrats Xeno! That also explains why Stanley’s been acting so damn weird... But Congratulations again, and get your butt down here to see him!”

  “Charlotte. You don’t need me to be told twice, I’m not an oxygen molecule in nature!” Xeno replied, jumping out of bed and throwing on a sweater. He was nowhere near dressed appropriately and he didn’t give a shit whatsoever. He did , however, have his signature elegant pompadour back, having been able to slick it back before he fell asleep when returning home earlier.

   Xeno then hung up and immediately bolted into the living room, seeing Senku and Gen passed out on the couch. He shook them both awake with more energy than he’s had in days.

   “Wake up! We’re going to Tokyo, Stanley’s home!” Xeno said, “or else I’m going alone!”

   The omega ran into his kitchen and grabbed his shoes, running back into his bedroom and throwing on a lazy dress shirt and his usual slacks, not bothering to really put on anything too elegant (to his standards). The omega pulled up his socks just past his ankles and tied his shoes, then rushed to grab his car keys like a kid about to go to a birthday party when Gen scurried to him in an attempt to keep up with his energy. He gently grabbed Xeno’s arm to get his attention and stop him for a second long enough to talk to him.

   “We’ll take you…” Gen insisted, sleepy, “just… wait. Why’s Stanley-Chan in the hospital?!”

    “He got hurt, just as I expected! Ugh, he’s an imbecile!” Xeno said, tears forming in his eyes, “h-he’s really hurt... I-I have to be there for him!”

   He went from the happiest omega alive to frustrated and heartbroken with his husband for leaving him in the first place. Xeno was going through stages of happiness and pain. Underneath it all, he was ecstatic that Stanley at least made it home and survived the encounter. It sounded like he was relatively stable and the doctors could save him. 

    The omega had been through a rollercoaster of emotions with highs and lows in the last two weeks. He was surely going to come out of this as a new person and with tons of new ideas for experiments and trials. 

   Xeno threw on a jacket after running to his bedroom. He was going back and forth, showing just how scattered his mind was- grabbing a change of clothes for his husband and shoving them into a small bag he kept by his computer desk. He also grabbed the ultrasound papers he received from the clinic when he found out about the pup to show Stanley. He was normally organized and elegantly precise, and here he was, falling apart for the man he loved.

   “Senku! Wake up!” Xeno barked at the boy sleeping on his couch. Senku’s hoodie and shirt were discarded on the floor from the quickie those two shared earlier. Gen was back on the couch and sitting upright, stretching and yawning. 

   “Senku-Chan,” Gen said, nudging his boyfriend, “it’s time to go see Stanley-Chan!”

   “Hm,” Senku groaned, rubbing his eyes of sleep and turning to look at Gen. He couldn’t ignore Xeno towering over the couch and glaring daggers at him with wide eyes, scaring Senku down to the bone. He’d never show it, though, and instead smirked like he was challenging Xeno. He’d never bow so easily to an omega, especially Xeno- even Senku had some dignity and pride to keep up.

   “Stanley’s rubbed off on you, old man,” Senku snickered. Xeno raised a brow in confusion, opening his mouth to respond when Gen cut the two scientists off.

   “Put your shirt on, Senku-Chan. We’re leaving,” Gen said. He let Xeno confront Senku on his own and had gotten up from the couch to grab Senku’s clothes and some of Xeno’s things scattered on the floor. 

   “Senku, for Einstein’s sake, I’m 31!” Xeno insisted, offended at the remark. He turned on his heels and walked off outside to the car, getting into the backseat. He pulled the bag of clothes for Stanley into his lap, leaning against the window. 

   Gen felt the rushing energy from Xeno and decided not to get dressed, opting to stay in his pajamas from the morning and ultimately having to think on his magician’s feet as to what he should grab to stay warm. He eyed a jacket hanging in Stanley and Xeno’s closet, presumably it was Stanley’s because when Gen put it on, it was enormous compared to his tiny, skinny body. It was a forest green color with a zipper and some logo on the back that Gen didn’t recognize. 

   The younger couple got in the driver and passenger seat, Gen deciding it was best to let Senku drive this time around. He was still in heat, his instincts somewhat getting to him as he tried to sit still. Xeno could sense how restless the younger omega was and sort of felt… gratitude that Stanley knocked him up so he’d have 9 months of no heats. 

   Senku was bolting down the road, 10-15 miles over the speed limit. When the alpha approached the first red light, he attempted to calculate how fast he’d have to go to blow that. He pressed his foot on the gas carefully and blew the right light.

   Xeno grabbed the back of Gen’s seat to hold on tight, Gen himself yelped and covered his face in horror of what Senku just did. He nearly got them all killed!

   “Senku-Chan!” Gen cried in fear, holding his knees close to his chest and grabbing the emergency handle above him, “don’t get Stanley’s mate and pup killed or he’ll kill us!”

   Gen laughed nervously, Senku blowing a stray strand of his light ombré hair out of his face. He was concentrating on getting Xeno there quickly and in one piece. He’d stop at nothing to do that, he owed it to Stanley.

     “Relax, mentalist. Trust me,” Senku said, “you too, Xeno. I can feel you tensed back there.”

    Senku pulled into the highway ramp and got on, going well over the speed limit and passing cars whilst maintaining his calm, cool and collected self in the process. He got a couple middle fingers but managed to exit the highway onto the busy streets of Tokyo about 40 minutes later.

~

   Senku navigated through the city of Tokyo, hitting some red lights and weaving through traffic, then taking a sharp right turn down a side street to bypass the next set of many lights. They passed by the glowing of several vending machines and dumpsters, with the occasional passerby walking down the sidewalk. 

   When the Tokyo hospital came into view, Xeno leaned forward to Gen’s seat and stared out the window. His husband was there, Stanley was finally home! 

    “I’m gonna pull up to the front so you two can walk in, while I park this tin can,” Senku said. He pulled into the emergency entrance to spot  stopping the car at the entry doors where the visitors were required to enter the building. 

   “Alright, outta my c-“

   Xeno, as soon as the car stopped, scrambled to throw the backseat door open. He was a bigger mess those past two weeks than he ever had been before (excluding his messy heats). The omega tripped over himself, falling to his knees and crying out in pain. Still, the resilient little omega got right back up and bolted to the double doors, bag of goodies in hand.

   “Xeno-Chan!” Gen cried, unbuckling his seat belt when he saw Xeno on the ground. The magician was terrified to death that Xeno fell on his stomach. The younger omega ran into the building after Xeno, chasing after him like a mom chasing her disobedient child in a grocery store. Xeno, followed by Gen, ran right up to the desk and saw an older woman sitting in the office chair.

   “St-Stanley… Snyder… my husband…” Xeno panted, his hand against the counter to help him catch his breath.

    The woman called the emergency department and was redirected to the operating room nurse’s station. She was promptly told the exact location of where Stanley was: an OR recovery room to monitor him.

   “He’s on the third floor, room 309-“

   Xeno ran to the direction of the elevator where the building’s signs were directing him. Gen was hot on his trail, yelping out when he nearly lost sight of Xeno. He was only able to find him by the crinkling sounds of his bag with Stanley’s goodies.

   “Xeno-Chan!” Gen said, “oh my! You’re fast for a scientist!”

    Gen shoved his foot between the elevator door to stop it from shutting and allowing him entry. The door opened, Gen stepped in to stand beside Xeno. The scientist looked like he was in his own world, just mashing the ‘3’ button with one hand and resting the other on his stomach. He was not saying a word, determined more than ever to get to his alpha husband.

   As soon as the elevator stopped and the doors began to open, Xeno pried them open with the determination of Hercules. He ran to the desk of the operating room when he saw Charlotte sitting in one of the chairs.

   “Hey, Xeno. You made it. I think he yelled at me to leave him alone, he only wants to see you. Make sure you approach him slowly, he just got done about 15 minutes ago.”

   Charlotte led Xeno and Gen to Stanley’s hospital room just down the hall. It was a door on the right, leading into a room where Xeno saw just how awful his husband truly looked through the window to the room. Gen gently pushed his hand to Xeno’s back, the scientist looking over his shoulder at him.

   “Go see your sleeping beauty,” Gen whispered, winking to Xeno, “I’ll wait outside.”

   Xeno smiled, nodding, “thank you, Gen. for everything.”

   Charlotte ushered Gen with her, the duo quietly walking down the hall where they came from. The echoes of their footsteps got quieter and quieter until the only sound was the humming of equipment and buzzing of the lights to keep Xeno company. 

   The omega opened the door slowly, peering into the room to see his beloved alpha in a terrible state. His hair was a mess, makeup wiped clean off, his ankle in a cast, his stomach bandaged up, a cool cloth on his forehead and his uniform in a bag on the bench where visitors would usually sit. Stanley’s hair was down and thankfully cleaned, the blond waves framing his face and falling to the pillow behind him. His thick lashes were shut, his chest steadily rising and falling, and an IV was in his left arm on the bend of the inside to his elbow. It was like night and day compared to when he left Xeno at the airport. 

   Xeno quietly approached the sleeping beauty, placing the bag beside the bed on the floor. He placed a hand delicately on Stanley’s cheek, rubbing it with the back of his thumb. Stanley still had the spunk- looking handsome and strong despite what happened to him.

  “Stan,” Xeno said, “y-you’re finally… home.”

   Surely enough, the emotional and hormonal omega was crying silently once again. He leaned closer to Stanley’s face, a stray tear dripping down onto Stanley’s cheek and running down the soft skin. The hormones coarsed through Xeno’s veins and to his brain and heart, changing his emotional state like tearing apart the sharing of covalent bonds.

   Stanley opened his eyes and as soon as his glassy, light blue eyes met his omega, Stanley realized who it was and threw his arms around Xeno. Never had Xeno been hugged like this before- desperate, strong, sad. Like Stanley was going to lose him again at any time. It felt unreal to see the beauty that was his mate because it meant he survived . 

   “Stan, I… I have t-“

    Xeno’s eyes went wide when he felt Stanley’s tears against his shirt. The military man then burst into sobs out of nowhere, his hands grabbing and clawing at Xeno’s back desperately as he did so. He was going to pull his stitches or something! It was the drugs causing Stanley to act like a teenager and not his usual, uptight self.

   “Stan…” Xeno said, the wave of shock running down his spine until he kicked into gear and wound up nurturing his husband, “shhh. It’s okay. I’m here, we’re here.”

   Stanley’s sobs, fingers digging into Xeno’s back, and his beaten body didn’t help his case of keeping his dignity. The alpha snapped at countless hospital staff (and Charlotte) before Xeno finally showed up. Stanley was well aware of the promise he made Xeno- a promise to come home to him, embrace and love him. Stanley truly believed he failed . The soldier always took orders from his omega scientist wife to heart rather than his actual marine orders.

    “Stan, y-your stitches… be careful… Stan-“

    Xeno was shut up by Stanley smashing his lips on his own again. The kiss was messy- full of teeth, tongue and desperation. Was Stanley feeling the effects of the pregnancy too? Xeno had no clue if that was how it worked, or if it was the cocktail of drugs and weaning anesthesia. 

    Stanley pulled away and his hands remained on Xeno’s cheeks as he inspected the omega’s face, making sure no one hurt his precious scientist while he was away. Not a single blemish, mark or bruise- unlike Stanley’s faint black eye from the old fuck that took the phone from his hands. 

   “My god… y-you’re beautiful,” Stanley said breathlessly, “more… than usual…”

   Xeno put two and two together when he realized he was probably glowing from the pregnancy already. Stanley knew him so well! The alpha caressed Xeno’s cheek with his thumb. He was high off his ass and therefore not in the state of mind whatsoever to be told about his pup in Xeno’s womb, so the omega would break the news when the anesthesia wore off.

   “Stan… what’s the matter?” Xeno asked, leaned over the bed to his husband and brushed the stray blond hair that Stanley usually had covering part of his face.

   “Xe… I-I promised you! I… I fucked up, baby. I messed up! I'm s-so sorry. I-!”

   Xeno placed his finger against Stanley’s lips to stop him from rambling. He probably had no idea what he was talking about at that moment, just working on fighting the medications to form a coherent thought.

   “You didn’t, Stan. You’re home . You beat the odds and made it back to me, just like you promised. I’d say that’s rather elegant, is it not?” Xeno asked with a reassuring warm smile. He saw Stanley’s saddened expression turned to shock, his mouth agape and his eyes wide. Xeno was right and he knew it. He may not have made it back like he expected or wanted to, but he made it regardless.

    “Y-yeah… that’s…” Stanley trailed off, his head relaxing back into the pillows with all his muscles relieved of tension, “just… as I…k-knew…Xe… you…”

   Stanley was losing his consciousness quickly, inevitably succumbing to the medications and falling asleep right where he laid, one of his hands still weakly holding Xeno’s cheek, his wedding band sparkling in the light of the IV pump. The other arm fell limp onto the side of the bed.

   Xeno sighed, fighting more tears himself. It ached him down to the bone to see his mate in such an awful state. Stanley deserved better than this! But now, he was never going to suffer alone again. Xeno was attached to him for the rest of his life. He’d refuse Stanley to go on big missions for the marines after this incident, because once the pup was born it was all hands on deck. Xeno and their pup needed Stanley there for them during this time more than ever.

    The scientist looked from Stanley and over to the door, seeing Gen’s peeping eyes for just long enough to deceive him. He sighed, reluctantly placing Stanley’s hand back down at his side, standing up and heading over towards the door to see his pseudo-brothers. Walking through a sleeping (albeit heavily drugged) soldier’s room was like walking on eggshells, so Xeno was extremely careful, like he was holding his firstborn pup.

   The omega turned the handle of the room slowly and quietly, peering over his shoulder and seeing Stanley still sound asleep in his bed. His hand did move slightly which caused Xeno to freeze like a deer in the headlights for a good 20 seconds until Stanley showed he didn’t wake up. 

   Xeno creeped out into the hallway, tiptoeing down to the waiting room. He was silent as a mouse, somewhat like Stanley’s victims if the scope of his husband’s sniper rifle was on Xeno himself!

    “Hey, mentalist. Is he alive?” Senku had asked. He had come through the opposite door from the hall Xeno emerged from, the two making immediate eye contact. Senku’s eyes went wide with slight anxiety but also surprise at the sheer timing of it all.

    “Doc…” Senku said, “You look like you’ve an element lacking a valence electron... How is he?”

    Xeno’s eyes were full of sadness and worry, his shoulders were tense and his posture made him look small. He felt weak, relieved- but also worried. Happy his husband was home, but also sad to see Stanley in such a horrific state of injury.

    “He’s… not doing great,” Xeno replied with full fledged honesty, “I didn’t tell him… I can’t yet. He’s on so many varying medications, Stan is just not himself at the moment.”

    Xeno still considered his alpha husband elegant- there was never a time he wasn’t- however, he was in a scary state of anxiety, desperation for Xeno, and pain. Stanley’s pain tolerance was outstanding compared to most and even he had broken bones, cut organs and punches taken just so he could see his omega one last time. Xeno was well aware of that fact being that it was so in character for Stan.

    “Xeno-Chan? Are you okay?” Gen asked from the waiting room’s cozy armchair, wrapped in a blanket he had asked a nurse for because of his heat symptoms making him chilly.

    “Yeah. Try not to stress, we can’t have you in a hospital bed next to gunslinger,” Senku insisted with a snicker, trying to lighten the mood (and because he struggled to show emotion).

    “Right,” Xeno replied with a small smile, trying desperately to find the light in the dark tunnel he entered that day. Stanley wasn’t there to hold his hand through it while carrying the flashlight. Instead, Xeno would carry him to the other side, struggling with each step as he carried the soldier he called a husband in his arms and the pup they created in his stomach. 

    “Come sit,” Gen insisted, patting the open chair beside him that Senku was not occupying. He beamed a big smile at his friend, his smile quickly fading when Xeno didn’t budge and instead hugged his waist.

    “… I can’t,” Xeno replied, looking down, “I want to do something for Stan. Perhaps get him something to eat, or a gift…”

   “Your pup wasn’t enough of a gift for him?” Senku snickered, “what’d he say? He didn’t want the kid?”

   “Senku-Chan!” Gen hissed, elbowing his boyfriend. That was quite crude of him to say, especially about someone who was as passionate about Xeno as Stanley was. 

    Xeno gasped, eyes going wide, “n-no, no that’s not it! I didn’t tell him yet! He’s… he’s way too drugged to grasp that he’s going to be a father! I’m waiting until the time is more appropriate.”

   Senku nodded, “that’s good. Maybe we can grab him food from the cafeteria or something.”

   Senku didn’t intend to come off as insensitive, it was just his deadpan personality and Xeno knew not to take it personally. Still, it got under his skin a bit.

    “Senku… he deserves better than that,” Xeno insisted, a pleading look on his face, “I can order him a sub at the shop down the road. If you’d like, I can purchase one for you two as well if you’d pick it up.”

    Senku sighed, parking the car and finding his way there was a pain in the ass enough. He wanted to help his friend though, and with Xeno being a pregnant omega with his alpha in the hospital, he felt just enough sympathy for him to decide to go through with it.

    “Alright,” Senku replied, turning to Gen with a questioning look and removing a hand from his pocket to rest on the back of his head against the wall casually, “you want anything?” 

   It was a subconscious alpha move to show that Senku had the hots for Gen and he was his. Even if they weren’t mated, Byakuya, Lillian, Stanley and Xeno all knew they’d eventually claim each other one day.

    “Mmm… I’ll split one with you, Senku-Chan,” Gen replied with a smile, “is that okay~?”

    “Yeah. Alright, old man, we’ll get a meatball sub,” Senku said.

    “Okay. I’ll get Stan his steak and cheese,” Xeno replied with a soft smile. He finally decided to sit down next to Gen, taking out his phone and calling the shop. He couldn’t wait to treat his husband with a sub and news of their baby pup.

Chapter Text

Several Hours Later, Evening

   Xeno had decided to get his second ever ultrasound in that exact hospital with Senku and Gen by his side. The trio had devised a perfect plan for a care basket for Stanley, with the photos of the ultrasound at the bottom to surprise him. Xeno had sent a text of the list to the younger omega and had the two of them go out hunting for the proper items. The list consisted of Stanley’s favorite lipstick, mascara, eyeliner, and other things like a video game, new belt, Swiss Army knife, and flowers of his favorite shade of red. Sadly, Xeno didn’t have time to make Stanley any cigarettes himself, so instead, he picked him up one of his all time favorite brands. To top it all off, Gen and Senku picked out the card for Stanley to add some of their own touch to the basket and each signed it with their names. Xeno wrote a heartfelt paragraph for his husband and finished it off with his signature “Xeno H. Wingfield” in his perfectly elegant handwriting and then below his name, “& our pup♡ ”

~

   “May I get it printed?” Xeno asked, “my husband is just downstairs. He should be awake now.”

   The nurse on the omega OB floor nodded with a smile, printing that week’s ultrasound photographs for Xeno and Stanley. The pup was slightly bigger, although barely noticeable since the last examination. Several more weeks would have to pass before Stanley and Xeno could even make out a tiny person in there.

   Xeno was sent off the OB floor with the photos of his pup. Down the hall, he heard the screams of a male and female omega likely giving birth in separate rooms. Hearing the screaming only left a lasting weight and feeling on his shoulders of knowing he was next. It was like a shadow that would follow him for the next 9 or so months. Even if he wasn’t alone in the care of himself and the pup, he would be the only one birthing the kid. That thought absolutely terrified him. Xeno was a smart omega, but things like childbirth could be read about a million and one times and he still wouldn’t be able to fully comprehend it until it actually happened to him.

   The omega picked up his walking pace from slow to brisk and made his way to the elevator past the waiting area and nurse’s station. He pressed the button to the floor below him, clutching his papers. 

   He felt his phone vibrate in the pocket of his jacket and pulled it out, seeing a text from Gen.

Gen Cat-agiri:

Stanley’s up! He threatened to claw out Senku’s eyes if he didn’t come get you! >~<

   Xeno’s eyes went wide when he frantically typed a response to his poor cat of a son. 

  Be right there.

   The elevator stopped on the floor that Stanley was on, Xeno rushing over to the waiting area where the gift basket awaited him. He scrambled to put the ultrasound photos face down with the card below them, and all of Stanley’s miscellaneous gifts atop that with a black bow around the handle of the basket. The scientist rushed down the hall to the room where Stanley was, hearing voices coming from inside.

   “He’s just running an errand. Said he didn’t feel good,” Senku said, “so the nurses checked him out I guess.”

    “So he’s sick!? Let me see him! For fuck’s sake you two are useless !” Stanley snapped. When he was grumpy, he was out for blood and venom practically dropped from his teeth.

   Xeno opened the door to see Stanley sat up in the bed, holding his stomach and looking at Senku with the nastiest look Xeno had seen him give anyone in ages. He would’ve hated to be Senku at that moment.

   “Look. He’s right here,” Senku said, sighing when he knew his job of trying to calm the tiger that was Stanley Snyder was done. He plopped down in the chair beside his omega, moving Stanley’s bag of clothes to the floor beside him to rest an arm over Gen’s shoulders.

   “Xe! Come here!” Stanley cried, holding his arms out. His look softened almost instantly. He didn’t give a flying fuck about the basket Xeno was holding. He only wanted his mate, no one else.

   “Stan,” Xeno sighed contently, smiling softly, “be nice to our pupils.”

The omega walked over to his husband and placed the basket on the floor, then hugged Stanley tight (but not too tight), and ran his fingers through the alpha’s silky hair. He had the gel removed from his once slicked back hair and his makeup was gone, giving Stanley a more natural look that he hadn’t officially sported in years for anyone. Only Xeno had the pleasure of seeing him all natural, usually after he showered. 

  Gen thought Stanley was still pretty like a woman from the neck up, and built like a man from the neck down, much to Senku’s dismay. Gen was taking in the sight of Stanley’s naked face because it was probably the last time he’d see him without caked on makeup. Although, that was the last of Stanley’s problems. 

   “You’re okay, right, baby? Tell me you’re okay. Don’t join me in this shithole. I’m s-sorry for leaving you… I should’ve just fucking stayed home like you said, I-“

   Xeno silenced Stanley’s rambling by pressing his lips to his husband’s. Stanley kissed him back, flipping Gen and Senku off to tell them not to look. The younger couple diverted their gaze to Gen’s phone, where he was playing some dumb cat cafe game that was his new fixation. Senku was oddly (and admittedly, regretful) interested in it like his boyfriend was. He made damn sure Gen avoided microtransactions, though.

   “It’s okay, Stan. Neither of us could have predicted this happening, it was just incredibly poor timing,” Xeno insisted with a smile, “I’m sorry I unloaded to you in the airport so inelegantly. I’m indeed going through a lot.”

    Stanley nodded. His omega was so smart and understanding, he adored Xeno. He’d get stabbed 50 more times for his husband if it meant spending ten minutes with him.

    “Tell me what’s going on,” Stanley said, cupping Xeno’s face, “I should’ve been there for you before. Those assholes at the base and grounds gave me hell, too. Charlotte knew there was shit wrong with me, too. I tried to call you, those pieces of shit higher ups stole the phone from me before I could hit the button. I… I’m sorry.”

   Xeno saw it all over Stanley’s face. He was remorseful, hurt, and felt terrible for leaving his mate to his own devices when he was super emotional over Stanley leaving him. He felt like this every time, but Stanley even knew it was far worse now than it was all those times before, hence why the alpha suspected something was going on. As soon as they parted ways, Stanley felt it too- the overwhelming waves of emotions he didn’t feel for anyone else. The longing for Xeno was tenfold what it usually was, making him irritable and angry . His claws were out at the mere mention of his omega. 

   “Stanley, it’s okay, I promise,” Xeno assured his husband with a heartfelt smile, “I love you.”

    Stanley’s heart practically melted into his stomach and legs. Hearing Xeno so softly say that he loves him after all they both had been through was a breath of fresh air from the once suffocating atmosphere of the combat scene.

   Xeno let go of Stanley’s face and bent down, picking up Stanley’s gift basket made by himself, Senku and Gen. He smiled bashfully at his husband and handed him the basket.

   “What’s this?” Stanley snorted, “for me?”

    Xeno nodded. He had a blush painting his cheeks and his hands shyly atop each other just below his navel, his shoulders up. He simply couldn’t wait for Stanley to get to the bottom of the basket.

    “The flowers are beautiful, Xe. Thank you,” Stanley said, smiling genuinely at his husband. Senku had looked over at Stanley for just a split second, seeing that expression on his face really did change how Senku saw him. Stanley wasn’t just a heartless, knothead alpha who was obsessed with Xeno. He was a good man underneath his layers of testosterone and alpha pheromones.

   “Oh, fuck yeah!” Stanley said, holding up the lipstick to inspect it. He had a two pack in his favorite shades of rose red and outer space black. The alpha placed the makeup related gifts on his lap and dug for the next thing, his new belt.

   “I can see you taking this off me,” Stanley whispered to Xeno with a smirk. He earned an even bigger blush from his husband, Xeno, well aware of what that implied. Stanley woke up from a traumatic injury and surgery only to allude to wanting a blowjob from his husband, which was very in character for him. 

   “O-open the next thing, Stan..” Xeno said, blushing and nervous, fidgeting his hand gesture for Stanley to keep going. He was so antsy, the more things Stanley rummaged through, the more flushed he got, like a teenager asking out his crush. In reality, he was an omega telling his alpha mate of many years that he was finally pregnant. 

   “A Swiss Army knife? Great addition to the collection, hun, good catch,” Stanley smiled, “never cared enough to pick up one of these, and I sold the one that piece of shit got me.”

   The alpha flicked up the blade and waved it around, inspecting the shine of the blade in the light of the hospital room.  

    “You can use it at the base, too,” Xeno said, smiling, “there’s a can opener on it too… I-I know how much you love your combat knives for can opening and other purposes but I wanted to pick you something different, more multifaceted and smaller to change it up.”

    Stanley smiled, kissing Xeno on the cheek. He was so damn lucky, how did he score such an incredible mate? He was glad he pawned off the piece of shit knife his father got him, before he tried to kill his mom and little sister. Stanley’s dad was rotting in prison as they spoke, and he couldn’t be more grateful for that. He never would have the opportunity to meet any of Stanley’s nieces, nephew or Stanley’s own kid.

   “You’re amazing, Xe,” Stanley insisted. He picked up the pack of cigarettes next, gasping, “oh shit. I could really use a smoke right now! Fuck, babe, you got a lighter? A match? We can crack the window so no one knows I’m smokin’.”

   Xeno shook his head, “don’t smoke right now, Stan… please…”

   Stanley nodded, seeing how flustered and emotional Xeno was getting and decided to let it go. He must’ve been sick, his face was redder than a cherry and his body language was very bashful, tense and reserved. His omega side was coming out the closer Stanley got to his big gift, that instinctual side of Xeno praying that his alpha would accept, love and care for him. 

   “Alright, Xe. I won’t right now,” Stanley replied, going back to opening his gifts awkwardly. He picked up the last thing, his new video game and gasped again.

   “Xe, you knew?! Holy shit, thanks, doll!” Stanley said, leaning over and hugging his mate tightly. He had no clue how Xeno knew what game he had been wanting for a long while. Unless… he asked Brody.

   “You’re welcome, Stan,” Xeno replied, hugging his husband back. He kissed the top of his head and looked back at the basket. The black decorative confetti covered the paper with the ultrasound photo. All Stanley had to do was brush it back and see the biggest gift he’d get in his life. 

   “There’s one more gift, Stan,” Xeno said, directing his husband’s attention to the basket. Stanley gave a little ‘hm?’ Noise and turned around, noticing the confetti and blank back of the page on the bottom of the basket. 

    Gen elbowed Senku to get his boyfriend to look up at the scene that was about to unfold at that bedside. They took out the one earbud that each of them had to hear Stanley’s reaction to the news. Gen turned off his cat game, opening his camera app and beginning to film the two before them. He smiled at Senku, excited like he was a kid again. Senku smiled back at him, happy for Xeno and Stanley with that impending bug news lingering just around the corner.

   He brushed the confetti back, picking up the papers and inspecting the first side he saw.

    “It’s a piece of paper, Xe,” Stanley said, confused, then flipping the paper over after a second to finally be face-to-face with the photo of his unborn child. It took a second for Stanley to process what he was looking at. Holy shit . 

   Stanley put a hand over his mouth, for a second he had stopped breathing as all the blood rushed to his head. His heart felt like it stopped for a second and then before he knew it, it was racing in his chest. This news was the closure he needed in a way, it explained why his alpha instincts would take over and when he was so hostile to everyone, it was because his mate was pregnant with his pup. The room had a silence that filled it as quickly as chlorine gas was, except that moment was the opposite of toxic.

   Stanley’s eyes filled with tears, he couldn’t even muster out any words. He didn’t care that he was hurt, his ankle was broken. His body was beaten and bruised, broken and damaged to hell. He didn’t care. He was on cloud nine. 

    The alpha got up from the bed, despite all the pain he was in and his ankle, he put all his weight on his good leg. (The nurses had advised him to get up when he could anyways and use his crutches, so it worked out). He threw his arms around his mate and sobbed profusely into his shoulder. Tears of joy, excitement, relief. He did feel a bit of fear but that was very clouded by the overwhelming positive emotions. 

   “Stan, perhaps you’ve put it together, but if no- I’m pregnant,” Xeno said, being slightly crushed by his injured husband in the hug, “c-careful, don’t squish me or the pup, Stan!”

   Xeno chuckled and softly smiled at his husband’s reaction. Stanley wasn’t sad, he was trying tears of joy and relief that Xeno was finally pregnant. It was their dream to have a pup of their own.

   “Xeno… oh my g-god, Xeno… I-I can’t believe it… fuck. I’m so happy!” Stanley cried. He lifted his head to look down at his mate, “no wonder you’re so damn beautiful. You’re glowing , Xe. Y-you’re amazing… so strong..”

   “I couldn’t have done it without you, Stan,” Xeno replied, holding his husband by the waist to support him and his broken ankle. They were in this together. Both of them had to be strong for each other and help when they could.

   “Can I see? Y-your belly, I mean… if-“

   “Of course you can,” Xeno replied, “it’s your pup too, Stan.”

    Xeno lifted his loose shirt, showing his bloated belly to Stanley. Stanley was fragile, but not too fragile to the point where he couldn’t be face-to-face with his pup. The alpha hissed through gritted teeth in pain as he knelt down, kissing Xeno’s belly to love him and his miracle baby. 

    “Hey… kiddo,” Stanley said, tears of joy escaping his eyes again. He was talking to his child. His own flesh and blood. 

    “It’s dad and… I’m home now. I-I’ll never leave you and your mother again. I’ll protect you, always. Your mom and I have wanted to see you for so long, you’re finally here… you’re here..” Stanley pressed his forehead to Xeno’s belly. This was the best news of his life, he couldn’t have been told anything better. He was aching before and it was like the pain was gone as soon as he saw the ultrasound photos.

    “I can’t wait to h-hold you… pup,” Stanley cried. He kissed Xeno’s stomach several times, hugging his mate around his midsection, “Xe, you’re… my god… I love you, s-so damn much…”

Chapter Text

    “I was in bed for days. I can’t even remember the last time I slept for more than 8 hours,” Xeno said, chuckling, “I was puking a lot the first week, too. To put it simply, it was inelegant and hellish.”

   Stanley had calmed down for the most part, except for the fact that he was over the moon about his pup and mate.  He had moved over in the bed to make room for Xeno to sit upright beside him, despite the nurse that was in a few minutes ago (to medicate Stanley) having told Stanley to not do that. The alpha didn’t care, he wanted to be with Xeno and his pup.

   So Stanley laid his head against Xeno’s waist and had an arm around his torso, more comfortable in that moment than he had been in awhile.

   “You two are so ‘ute-cay, congratulations!” Gen chirped, “I filmed the reveal if you two would like the video. I figured it would be a good memory~!” 

   “Thank you, Gen. Send it our way,” Xeno replied, “I know I’ll be watching it.”

   “Ha, ha. Very funny,” Stanley said, “you like seein’ me cry?”

   “No, not particularly. This is different, though. It’s for our pup that we worked hard for. I’d say it’s justified and quite adorable, Stan,” Xeno insisted, “it would make me happy to see you so happy.”

   “Does that make us uncles? Cousins?” Senku asked, snickering, “since we’re pretty much family at this point, it’s only logical.”

    “Hm… perhaps cousins. I can see that,” Xeno replied, pondering, “you two are like my own. You’re almost like siblings to my baby.”

    Stanley wasn’t listening too much to the conversation going on around him, just entranced by Xeno’s beautiful voice and his 

 stomach. He was also still on drugs that were altering his concentration and consciousness that the bossy nurse had given him through his IV about ten minutes ago.

    “Oh, Xeno-Chan!” Gen swooned, “it’s an honor either way. We’re happy to be there for you!”

    “Yeah. I mean, you guys did help babysit me years ago,” Senku said, leaning back in his chair and folding his arms casually, “so I can help this time around.”

  “I can only imagine the dynamic there!” Gen gasped, “little Senku-Chan and teenage Xeno and Stanley is a cocktail of chaos!”

   Senku snorted, “we almost blew up my old man’s house a couple times.”

    Xeno chuckled at the memory, recalling the day that he showed Senku a rocket he made for the science fair at his high school. Stanley had tagged along that day, as spring break had just started and he was off from baseball. The two were in a weird state of things- Stanley being in love with Xeno and Xeno was aware of that, but they had just started dating and the scientist was grasping what love was and the balance between his love of science and another person. The two were only 17, Xeno presenting as an omega just a few years before and Stanley in his prime alpha horny years meant a recipe for disaster and teenage confusion.

     Xeno played hard to get with him for a while which had driven his best friend away to a cheerleader that lasted for a four month fling and his football teammate that he had a one night stand with. Tensions were high after the one night stand when Stanley couldn’t keep his emotions in check for Xeno and confessed his undying love for him after he had tried to be with other people in place of his best friend. Xeno, blissfully unaware of his feelings at the time for Stanley, said yes to try . By some miracle, Xeno’s love for Stanley triumphed over his love for science.

    The omega was smiling at the memory, his hand clenched into a fist in his jacket at the frustration he felt for high school Xeno- even if he was just a kid, he wished he was kinder to Stanley and took him in his arms before he went and slept with other people to supplement Xeno. Xeno rubbed his belly, glad that things worked out and that he was having a pup with Stanley after being mated with him for over a decade. 

    “Xe? You okay?” Stanley asked, finally grabbing Xeno from his daydreaming and walking him back to reality- ah, right. He was in the hospital, Stanley was hurt. Senku and Gen were there by his side, Gen falling asleep in the armchair he sat in beside Senku. The small talk had died out and everyone went quiet, Stanley just snuggling Xeno and his pup. 

    “Mm? Oh, yes- just… thinking,” Xeno replied, his voice quiet. He smiled at his husband, “when can you come back home , home?”

    “Dunno,” Stanley shrugged, “they haven’t said.” 

    Xeno reluctantly nodded, laying his head against the wall and equipment on the bed. He was quite uncomfortable on the inelegant and subpar hospital bed. It simply wouldn’t do, Stanley deserved to sleep in the bed they shared together back home. Xeno wanted nothing more than to help his husband walk out of that hospital on crutches and bring him to their home to start creating a nursery. 

    The alpha pointed over to the two chairs where Senku and Gen were, noting the two were out cold. Senku had his feet propped up against a third chair, Gen’s beside him and the two snuggled up together, laying on Senku’s hoodie as a makeshift pillow. They must’ve gotten bored of watching whatever movie was playing as Gen was quietly snoring with Senku looking more relaxed than he had in awhile. 

    “Oh… how touching,” Xeno said with a soft smile to the two kids, “but…”

   The room went quiet, Stanley’s brow raised in confusion as he eyed his mate up and down, wondering what was wrong.

    “Stan?” Xeno finally asked to break the long, painful silence that filled the room, “can you… retire? Please… for me… for our pup.”

    The quiet snores of Senku and Gen meant that Stanley and Xeno could talk about their old plans of world domination and go unnoticed. It was a better time than ever to have this conversation in Xeno’s mind, Stanley hopefully learned that close calls can’t afford to happen again after he becomes a father.

    Stanley’s eyes went wide. What a loaded question! He was still a little out of it due to the medications but not like he was before, it was more to do with his mobility than anything else. Xeno was pregnant, things were serious. It hadn’t fully settled in yet that he’d have to quit the marines like he imagined if he ever became a dad. Stanley knew it was bound to happen- in the back of his mind, the thought lingered like an old jacket he couldn’t part with- he left it to collect dust until a knot of his actually worked and got Xeno pregnant. It was time to dig up that thought and put it to work, because he had a pregnant omega to care for. As any good alpha would, he’d step up to the plate. The day he married Xeno, he promised he’d be there for him no matter what happened. They both weren’t in the best shape and needed each other more than ever before. 

    “I can,” Stanley replied. Simple, straight to the point and a phrase he often said when faced with something that felt difficult or even impossible. 

    Xeno, 12- “Stan, can you shoot the frisbee out from the top of the tree?”

   Stanley, 12- “I can.”

   Xeno, 14- “Stan, can you figure out if this equation goes with this solution for bullet velocity if I sent you in our rocket to space?”

   Stanley, 14, and so in love.- “I can.”

    Xeno, 17- “Stan, please… just tell me how you really feel about me.”

    Stanley, 17- “Xe.. I can.”

    Xeno, 19- “St-Stan… can you, please… be gentle.”

    Stanley, 20- “I can, princess.”

    Xeno, 27, “Stan? Please, help me plan our wedding and pick a venue! I’m so stressed! What flavor cake are we doing? Wh-“

   Stanley, 27- “shhh, Xe. It’s okay. I can.”

    “Stan… you’d do that… for us?” Xeno whispered, taking Stanley’s hands into his own. This was serious- he needed his husband by his side at all times now, or he’d go crazy worrying for him and his unborn pup at the same time, and that was just too much for the scientist to handle. 

   “Of course I would, baby. You know I can do it. After all, I promised ya,” Stanley replied with a soft smile, “I’ll go back to college or somethin’, find a new job and we can raise our pup together, yeah?”

    Xeno’s eyes lit up with excitement. Stanley actually had plans for the future. This truly excited the omega, he threw his hands up into the air and smiled.

    “Elegant!” He whispered, “oh, Stan! That’s truly wonderful!”

    Stanley couldn’t wipe that dumb smile off his face. Seeing Xeno passionate and truly happy made his heart speed up and give him butterflies. He wanted nothing more than happiness for his mate and their pup. He’d pick them over the military any day of the week no matter what.

    “I was always kinda interested in bein’ in law, or maybe a cop. Dunno. What do you think?” Stanley asked with that same smile, “and don’t you dare say scientist. That ain’t my forte.”

   Xeno laughed quietly to himself, at that point he was laying in the bed once again and facing his husband. He pondered to himself, throwing his fingers up into his signature thinking position.

   “Hmm… I can see you being a lawyer. Or perhaps a mechanic, maybe even a coach. Don’t think I forgot how gifted you were in hockey, Stan.”

    Stanley rolled his eyes, “Xe, come on, I ain’t coaching any damn brats. I only need to worry about one kid, and that’s my own.”

     Xeno sighed. There was no changing that side of his husband, then. He pondered for a bit longer. That’s when it hit him.

    “A pilot, Stan! Fly commercial airplanes for cargo!” Xeno insisted, “That's a perfect occupation for you, and much safer!”

   Stanley’s whole aura joined Xeno’s in harmony, happiness and relief. He would leave the marines and pick his new occupation regardless of what it was, go back to college and restart his life with his pregnant omega once he was back on his feet. He just had to get out of that damn hospital first, which would be a daunting task when he had a broken ankle from running and falling on the battlefield.

    “Yeah,” Stanley replied, yawning. Perhaps it was time for the older alpha and omega to join their older children in the world of sleep. The alpha hadn't ever slept this much since he was just a pup himself but he needed the rest after what happened to his now battered body. Xeno needed the rest because of the pup he was carrying himself, so the two could join together in their struggles and help each other where the other lacked. 

     Once Xeno’s belly got bigger and he couldn’t bend down to pick up stuff anymore, Stanley would be healed enough to do it. At that moment in time, Stanley couldn’t even walk on his own, he felt absolutely useless and like a burden. He’d share that more with his husband when they inevitably went home together.

    “Tired?” Xeno asked, smiling, “you’re on some pain meds that I haven’t seen since college.”

    “Yeah… what made you think that?” Stanley chuckled, “you ain’t a medical doctor, Xe.”

     “I know. I just want you off the ketorolac in a couple days. It’s not good for you,” Xeno insisted, huffing.

     “Sure- whatever, doll. C’mere, lay with me,” Stanley said with shut eyes, patting the pillow that he had quickly moved beside him for Xeno.

    “The kids?” Xeno asked with a whisper, “should we-“

    “Nah. Let ‘em rest,” Stanley replied indifferently, “they’re your ride, too.”

     “I’m not leaving you!” Xeno whisper-shouted reflexively, then quickly catching himself, “ah- s-sorry. I just…”

    Stanley shook his head to dismiss Xeno’s thoughts and pulled the omega close once he laid down, holding him so he could lay against Stanley’s bare chest. Xeno was hesitant, however, because of the wound that was repaired earlier that day. 

     “Hey, I’m not paper mache, Xe. It’s okay,” Stanley whispered, “and my chest ain’t what’s broken.”

     Xeno reluctantly sighed, then placed his head against Stanley’s chest. The alpha tensed for a moment and then relaxed his muscles, putting one of hands around Xeno’s back and the other just above his stomach. 

     “Please don’t dig your grave early, Stan…” Xeno sighed.

     “Wouldn’t dream of it. You’re stuck with me,” Stanley replied with a cheeky grin, looking down at his pouting mate. Xeno already hated that Stanley smoked and would often make fun of him and his “carcinogenic fumes”. Stanley once blew a cloud of smoke into his face as a reply to that and got a bratty Xeno for the rest of the night, even resisting Stanley’s advances for make up sex purely out of spite.

    “Good. Behave yourself when we’re out of here,” Xeno huffed, inching closer to his husband despite his bratty attitude. He was allowed to be a brat- he earned it by carrying Stanley’s pup.

    “Yes, your majesty,” Stanley snorted, then picking up his remote with the call bell for the nurse and shutting off the overhead light. Within just a few minutes, the alpha and his omega were asleep in each other's arms, just like things used to be.. except many drastic changes occurred within and around them. Despite that, they had each other no matter what, through thick and thin.

Chapter Text

6 AM, The Next Morning

   “Ah… mmm~ Stan~”

   Stanley was dreaming of a beautiful site, Xeno’s pregnant belly against his stomach as he rode Stanley’s hard cock. The omega must’ve been about 7 months pregnant in Stanley’s dream, and still able to go at it like rabbits.

   Stanley grunted with each thrust, his dream self having fully recovered. He was sweaty, harder than a rock and in full rut. 

   “Ah! Harder, Stan~!” Xeno moaned as Stanley thrusted his hips up to meet his omega riding him. The growing breasts on Xeno’s chest and belly were something Stanley wouldn’t have forever and so he had to take advantage of it while it was there. 

   Stanley grabbed Xeno’s tits, squeezing as he met his husband’s waist when he thrusted upwards. Xeno screamed in pleasure, his hands digging into the sheets-

   “Mr. Snyder?”

   Stanley was awoken from his dreamful sleep by the absolutely melodic voice of a nurse. He was livid with his morning wood and interruption to his incredible dream. He cracked open his sleep filled eyes to see a younger nurse standing above his bed. Perfect . He could attempt to use his looks to his advantage.

    “Yes?” Stanley asked, playing dumb whilst being extremely annoyed.

    “I have some medications for you, a-and to inform you. You shouldn’t be in bed with another person, may I offer something else for your guest?” The nurse asked. She was a shy omega, probably used to working night shifts and keeping her head down- she wore a scent blocking collar so Stanley couldn’t analyze her by scent. She did blush around Stanley, confirming the alpha’s suspicions- still, he was laying there shirtless with his claim mark flaunted to the world. If she wanted to pursue an alpha who was unmated, Senku was right across the room for her to wake up. She could have fun dealing with his omega.

    “No. We’re fine. I’m not in any pain, just let me sleep,” Stanley grumbled, trying so badly to make this woman go away. Something about her demeanor seemed so familiar, like he’d seen her before as a patient there.

    “Y-you could reopen your stitches if you shift in the wrong position,” the nurse stuttered, “would you like me to just hold t-the ketorolac? Sir… you can’t lose those looks with the damage it can cause from long term use…”

      Stanley caught the muttering of the last sentence. Every nurse in the building flirted with him. It was like high school.

    “Don’t care. Just-“

    Xeno opened his eyes, hearing Stanley be an ass to a nurse yet again. He knew the nurse was clearly into his husband, but was dignified and behaved enough to not try anything. It wasn’t his first rodeo with Stanley being a jerk to people who threatened to move Xeno from him. Stanley took notice of this, Xeno lifting his head up and observing the scene unfolding around him. He rubbed the sleep from his eyes and smiled at the nurse who was just doing her job. He had no idea why Stanley was so mad at her, so he’d be the nice one.

    “Hello. I’m sure you expected a different scene to unfold here,” Xeno began, “excuse my husband. Just bring in some Tylenol for him, and I’ll move from the bed if that will give you peace of mind.”

   “Xe-“

   “Stan, it’s okay,” Xeno insisted, sitting upright and getting up, “she’s right. We can’t reopen your wound, can we?”

    The nurse looked beyond relieved that the mate of this alpha stepped in and got him on his leash so she could admire a hot guy like Stanley from afar. Stanley had an attitude issue at times and Xeno always found a way to keep him grounded. The omega saw how crushed Stanley looked, like his perfect dream was crushed right before him in the fists of this nurse. Why’d he even hate her so much? It was like his subconscious alpha had claws out, ready to go.

   “Fuckin’ whatever,” Stanley grumbled, “get out.”

   The nurse scurried out of the room to bring the Tylenol to Stanley, leaving the couple there. Xeno eyed Senku and Gen still asleep in the chair together, except Gen was laying on top of Senku with the chairs as a makeshift bed for them. It was quite elegant to see how they had the two bookend chairs face each other with one in the middle as support, pushed in from the side so it was like one long cot.  

   “Stan..” Xeno sighed, whispering and pinching the bridge of his nose, “don’t be rude to underpaid healthcare workers.”

   “I wasn’t, she woke me up to tell my mate to get off me because she’s into me and I’ll ‘open my stitches’. She can fuck off,” Stanley insisted rather dramatically, throwing a middle finger up to the door and pulling his blankets back up to try and go back to sleep.

   “Stan, that first reason may have been why she said that,” Xeno insisted, “but there are things we must deal with here. She was nice enough, and you need medicine so you aren’t writhing in pain, either.”

   Stanley shook his head, “yeah, yeah. Still. She pissed me off and she has the hots for me.”

   “It’s a good thing I’m here, then,” Xeno replied with a smile, “just go back to sleep, I’ll be here. I may use Gen’s car and grab us a bite to eat.”

   “Driving while pregnant?” Stanley grumbled, half asleep with eyes closed.

   “I’m not too pregnant that I can’t, Stanley,” Xeno remarked, “you rest after the Tylenol gets in your system.”

    Stanley pretend-snored to piss off Xeno and the omega couldn’t help but laugh to himself. His husband really was a character.

    The nurse re-entered the room with a cup of Tylenol for Stanley, quickly scanning in the medications at the computer in the room. Senku and Gen were seemingly still asleep in the chairs, Gen still snoring whilst Senku was quiet as a mouse.

   Xeno went over to Stanley’s bed and raised the head of it so he’d be able to swallow, his alpha swatting his hand at him to get him to cut the shit. He didn’t realize the same nurse was even there until he opened his eyes a brief second later, his expression changing from relaxed to putting his guard up. He gave Xeno a look of ‘why’s she here?’ And sat up with a grunt of pain.

    “See, Stan? You’re in pain, please, take the medication,” Xeno insisted. He hated how Stanley was around doctors and nurses. They always saw him at his worst. Last time he was in the hospital was when they were kids and he got a cut that needed stitches while he played kickball with his friends, Xeno only spectating. 

    “Mhm,” Stanley grumbled, holding his hand out to take the pills from the nurse. She dumped the two in his palm, handing him the water after he popped them both in his mouth so he could swallow. The alpha took a big gulp of his drink, swallowing the pills and then laying back down quickly, hastily pulling the blanket up. It was still April, so the mornings got quite chilly in Japan. 

    The nurse was watching Stanley take the pills, possibly looking too long and earning a scowl from the alpha. The marine was in over protective mode of his pregnant omega, omitting his alpha pheromones to give the message to this seemingly lustful woman.

    The nurse blushed once again, looking away for a moment and then looking back at the alpha.

    “Sir.. you are, well… you’re very b-beautiful,” the nurse stuttered, “I-I don’t know if you remember me, I… I colored my hair b-but… it’s me. Annalise.”

   She earned a gasp from Gen across the room who was supposed to be asleep and instead, likely heard everything. Who was this woman, exactly? He heard a gasp of shock from Xeno, who quickly turned his head to Stanley- who was now wide awake, laying on his elbow against the pillows. His eyes were wider than saucers. This woman was one of his short lived high school flings. Shit. How the hell did she even find Stanley and Xeno in Japan? Was she a travel nurse? So many thoughts raced through Stanley’s head, but none trumped his instincts to protect the newly pregnant Xeno. He made the mistake of screwing around with Anna for a couple months in high school and had since never looked back. 

    “No fuckin’ way… how are you in Japan?” Stanley asked, the shock making him unable to say anything else. Mustering strength from within, he managed to hesitate out, “man, I’m married now. Not interested.”

    “If you must know, I’m here interning for my master’s. So… you ended up with him, huh…” Stanley’s ex sighed, looking at the ultrasound photos on the bedside table, “congrats.”

     “yeah. Me. Dr. Xeno, and if you must know, I’m pregnant, and it’s Stan’s. Scurry along now, we’d like another staff member,” Xeno said, his little metaphorical claws out to match his alpha’s massive ones.

    “Yeah. Again, I’m married . I’d run if I could but I can’t, so kindly, fuck off,” Stanley said, his piercing blue eyed gaze practically striking this woman like icicles, “not fuckin’ interested. We broke up in high school .”

   Gen pretended to be asleep as he listened to the entire confrontation. The awkwardness was so tense he could practically cut it with a knife. He hoped Stanley didn’t get out of that bed and choke the nurse out or something.

    “Who said I came here to try and rekindle things with you? You can mess with your nerdy best friend, I don’t care,” She sighed, then uncrossing her arms, “but, Stan, if you really do change your mind or have second thoughts, here.”

    The nurse winked, blew Stanley a kiss and put her phone number on a sheet of paper face up on Stanley’s nightstand. Xeno was absolutely flabbergasted, at a loss for words at such a remark. He watched the woman leave and shut the door behind her, then looked over at his husband.

    “No way, that was her ?! I should’ve known better than to give an only slightly obnoxious nurse the benefit of the doubt when the nastiest girls from high school become nurses!” Xeno exclaimed, snatching the paper and ripping it up himself as he began to pace the hospital room, “to hell with that! I’m not just your ‘ best friend’ , I’m your husband! Ugh! To think she’d risk her job for being inappropriate with a patient! And only I can call you Stan.” 

     so that was a pregnancy ourburst. Stanley loved how Xeno was so protective and upset about his husband’s ex interacting with them. It turned him on. “I know, baby. I love you so damn much,” Stanley replied with stars in his eyes for that gorgeous omega pacing the room, “trust me, I haven’t thought of her in years. You weren’t wrong to give someone the benefit of the doubt. She was fine, then kept pushin’, and that was that.”

  “I trust you, Stan. Not her,” Xeno insisted, “ugh, I’m already on the path of being a parent who complains. It’s inelegant, I’m aware.”

   Xeno was incredibly offended and hurt at how that woman treated him and Stanley. To be referred to as Stanley’s “nerdy best friend” was enough to send the omega into a tizzy, even earning a concerned look from the already nervous Gen. The young omega opened his eyes and peeked over to Stanley and Xeno.

   When Stanley first started dating Anna in sophomore year, he was on the high of his life for those three months. Xeno remembered just how painful and jealous he was back then. It was agony seeing the man he loved with someone else, giving his body to her and spending more time with her than his childhood best friend that he had known since they were in diapers.

   “Is she gone?” Gen asked. He was concerned at what Xeno could say or do- another omega making moves on his alpha would send his inner omega into a fit.

    “Yeah. And I’ll complain about her, too. Bitch,” Stanley grumbled, patting the side of his bed as his demeanor softened for his delicate omega, “come lay with me, doll.”

    Xeno was standing across the room after pacing over there, his arms folded. He moved one hand to cover his mouth and try to stifle back tears. When his husband slept around a bit, they were in high school and had not even officially started dating yet. Still, it stung to see Stanley’s ex just in public and trying to make moves on his alpha. The two didn’t care that Gen heard the whole thing, Gen wasn’t a dumbass, he knew Stanley must’ve had a past that Xeno wasn’t too fond of by putting the pieces together from knowing them for years. At that current point in his life, Stanley had nothing to hide from anyone. 

    “Y-yeah,” Xeno stuttered. He was a grown adult, he could toughen it out. The omega grabbed a do not disturb sign and put it outside the door, then he went right back to bed with his husband. He crawled in beside him, resting a hand on Stanley’s muscular chest and shutting his eyes in an attempt to relax his nerves. Stanley pulled the blankets back up, laying so he was somewhat facing Xeno as best he could. He wanted to reassure the scientist’s inner omega that he wasn’t going anywhere.

   Before Gen even knew it, Stanley and Xeno were asleep, Stanley quietly snoring from how deep in sleep he was. Xeno hadn't let his guard down, however, and stirred a bit when Gen got his phone out to play his cat game again. 

~

    “Phew..” Gen sighed, peering over to a still sleeping Senku. He decided on not telling his future mate about what happened just yet, he’d tell him when they got back to Byakuya’s house. The alpha must’ve been exhausted from yesterday’s events piled on top of Gen’s heat. He wasn’t remotely close to being the strongest alpha, some betas may have been stronger than Senku. Still, his endurance wasn’t anything to sneeze at, hence why Gen admired Xeno for getting into bed with an alpha like Stanley Snyder. He had done the same and regretted it shortly afterwards.

   Gen leaned down to Senku’s ear, his lips curling into a devious smile. He wasn’t going to be the trickster to his alpha this time around as a token of his appreciation for the young scientist’s caring of him during his heat.

    “Senku-Chan~” he whispered, “we should go back ‘ome-hay~”

    Senku grumbled, rubbing his eyes. He didn’t want to be awake but here he was.

    “Ngh… mentalist.. aren’t we… their ride?” Senku asked, his red eyes finally opening to meet Gen’s loving and devious blue ones.

    “Mhmmm~ but we can just come back later,” Gen assured Senku, “Xeno-Chan has his phone.”

    “Fine… just tell him we’re going.”

    Senku, despite being half asleep, knew Gen was itching to leave because he wanted something. He sometimes struggled to voice what he wanted or how he felt, but good thing Senku was built with a Gen Asagiri manual.

   Gen got up from the makeshift bed they made and went over to the hospital bed where Xeno and Stanley laid to rest. He gently shook Xeno’s shoulder, whispering into his ear, “Xeno-Chan…yoo hoo.”

    Xeno stirred, not turning around but managing to stifle out a ‘hm?’ The omega was clearly exhausted, having been unable to properly relax and unwind since Stanley left.

   “Senku and I will be going home for a couple hours. Is that alright?” Gen whispered, his voice like the softest of silk.

    “Mmmhm…” Xeno replied, half asleep and waving a hand dismissively to the couple, “go… ahead…”

    “Thank you, mother dearest,” Gen cooed, blowing Xeno a kiss and spinning on his heels to see Senku had gotten up to collect his bearings. The alpha stretched with his arms above his head, able to stay quiet for Stanley and Xeno’s sake.

    “Mhmmm..” Xeno replied, not moving a muscle and falling right back to sleep. The presence of his now medicated and comfortable husband made it easier for him to relax, too, as Stanley’s pheromones didn’t drive Xeno’s inner omegan instincts to insanity.

Chapter Text

    “Come, come, let’s go,” Gen whispered to his boyfriend, taking his hand and leading him down the hall of the chaotic morning hospital floor. Patients were coming into the operating room and coming out of it, nurses and doctors walking up and down the halls. Gen couldn’t wait to escape this insanity, go home, have sex and just sleep.

    The boys took the elevator down to the visitor entrance and made their way to where the car was parked from there, holding hands the whole time. Senku could feel it in his chest, as it regrettably made its way down south. He hated being an alpha at times, especially when his rut creeped around the corner. The scientist was a smart and dignified man, priding himself on being logical and straight to business. So when it came to his omega and the chokehold he had on him, Senku felt about as anomalous as iridium in the earth’s crust. Being an alpha was a part of his instincts and separate from Senku himself, still, he was undeniably in love with Gen.

    “Can I drive, Senku-Chan?” Gen asked, earning a nod and grunt from the alpha as a response. He took his car keys from Senku’s shorts pocket, grabbed his ass for a quick second and then started up his car as his alpha took shotgun with a blush covering his cheeks.

    “Someone’s ansty. If you want my dick, mentalist, just say it,” Senku deadpanned, still sleepy, “we don’t have time for your ten billion little semantics.”

    Right for the jugular, Gen loved it. He turned to Senku with an evil smirk as he reversed the car, “you’d love that, wouldn’t you?”

   Gen snickered with his comically evil grin, cutting the wheel as he reversed his car out of the hospital. Gen’s sleek, black car took the duo back to Byakuya’s house. The car filled with anticipation like a smoke bomb had gone off and clouded the boys’ judgment. Gen was filled with a heat haze of wanting Senku and to just lay in bed with him. As for Senku, he wanted the same, just a couple hours to relax and not having to worry about anything or anyone. 

    The black car soon pulled into the driveway of Byakuya’s home, beside the car of Senku’s beloved father. Byakuya himself was home, but Lillian was not- likely at a meeting with her manager or someone from her team.

    Once Senku opened the door, he was greeted by Byakuya waving to him from the reclining chair in the room to the left of the foyer. He was stoked to see his boy, even getting up to give Senku a hug. 

    “Senku! Glad to see you back home, how were things? Where’d you go last night?” Byakuya questioned, inspecting his son for any damage, his voice getting quieter so the approaching Gen couldn’t hear him, “not out partying with other weirdos, right?” 

    “Huh? No, that's illogical and a waste of a way to spend my night. Took Xeno to the hospital. Stanley’s home,” Senku replied, raising a brow at the question posed to him by his father. He was slightly offended that Byakuya would even question if he was fucking around with other omegas.

   “R-right! Sorry, son, I just worry! You know, as dad, I feel protective over you. I trust you all the way!” Byakuya nervously explained, smiling like a dork, “it’s other alphas, betas and omegas that I don’t trust! I know you’re older and all that, but it’s my job to worry!”

    Senku shrugged, “that’s why I’m going to mate Gen, soon.”

    “Hmm?” Gen asked at the mention of his name. He felt the slick between his legs, desperation and pining building up in his chest. He needed Senku. Byakuya was very much loved and adored by Gen, but he and Senku needed their alone time.

    Byakuya’s surprised expression and almost loud gasp would’ve worried anyone. Gen was suspicious, trying to read the room and situation. From Byakuya’s expression basically being the equivalent to if Senku told him he was secretly a lizard to Senku’s slightly smirked expression. He must’ve verbally unloaded something on his father that he wasn’t expecting in his usual deadpan manner.

   “Gen and I are going to bed. We didn’t sleep well in that hospital,” Senku finally said to break the silence whilst completely ignoring Gen’s question, “I’ll be upstairs for a little while, old man.”

  Senku pulled away from Byakuya and went up the stairs to where his childhood bedroom was. He could always count on his father to preserve the best parts of his later childhood after he married Lillian. Before those two met, Byakuya and Senku were stuck in a small apartment where the old geezer sold his own car just to make his son happy for Christmas. Senku loved Byakuya to death, but even he needed a break from the energy once every so often.

    Gen looked confused, exchanging said confused glance with Byakuya. He wanted to ask what Senku said that made the man so shocked but instead held off. He’d coax Senku to tell him in bed by biting his balls or something. The omega turned to Byakuya, quickly wrapping his arms around the man he saw as a father.

    “I don’t know what’s gotten into Senku-Chan…” Gen sighed, “we’re gonna go rest, we’ll see you in a bit~!”

    The magician went up the stairs like he was climbing the stairs to his stage for another show. Except this show starred just him and Senku with no audience whatsoever.

   When Gen got to Senku’s bedroom, he saw the alpha taking out his keys from his pockets and removing his hoodie. His back was facing the door which gave Gen the golden opportunity to go up behind Senku and smack his ass. The reaction of pure shock and a gasp from the alpha was enough to turn on the omega, making Gen giggle and fall over onto the bed, his shirt having slid up to reveal his navel. When Senku got all flustered, Gen was overjoyed and turned on seeing the scientist come undone.

   “Gotcha!” Gen laughed.

   “Mentalist… the door!” Senku hissed, going over to his bedroom door- shutting, and locking it. Even if his father went out for whatever reason, he wasn’t risking anybody walking in on them about to fuck on the bed Senku slept on since he was 7 years old. 

    “Yeah, you did. Asshole,” Senku said, his angry face quickly coiling up into his ‘get excited’ smirk. He sauntered over to the bed, slowly climbing right above Gen and licking his lips with seductive, halflidded eyes. 

    “And it’s hotter than Venus,” Senku said in a husky voice, leaning closer to Gen’s face so he was breathing right on him. 

    “Senku-Chan…~” Gen said breathlessly, his eyes full with stars, “I didn’t take you to be the exhibitionist type~” 

    Senku scoffed, taking off his shirt to reveal his slightly toned abs from lifting heavy science equipment and projects, “I’m not.”

    Gen lifted his hips in an attempt to grind against the alpha’s hardening length. Slick was gushing out of his body like lava from an erupting volcano. In his own omegan way, he was somewhat like the volcano that was about to erupt during sexy time.

     Senku leaned over to his bedside table’s top drawer and grabbed a condom to put beside his pillow for later. Even on birth control, the omega beneath him still had a chance of falling pregnant when the two of them were not at all ready to have a pup. Senku was still in college trying to become an astronaut at JAXA- Gen would wait for when his boyfriend was ready.

    “Senku-chaaan~” Gen whined, palming his own crotch. He was an attention whore- he couldn’t help it when he was in heat. 

    “Tell me what you want, omega,” Senku said, sliding his hands up the sides of Gen’s body under his tank top. Gen shuddered at the touch, sighing in pleasure. He may have to embrace his pillow princess side on that day and make Senku work for him, whilst bringing out his exhibitionist side.

    “Y-you, alpha..~”

    Gen opened his eyes to see Senku in all his glory, his hands traveling to Gen’s chest and fondling his nipples. Gen arched his back at the sensitivity of the spot- Senku knew every part of his body at that point and where to and not to touch.

    “Lazy today, are we?” Senku asked, his lip curling into a slight smirk, challenging his omega.

    Gen sat right up to meet Senku, the two basically chest to chest, “I can be whatever you want me to be, baby~” 

    Senku blushed heavily at the sudden movement from Gen, feeling his alpha cock twitch in anticipation to the omega and the move he made. Gen pushed Senku down on the other side of the bed, pulling down Senku’s basketball shorts to see the tent in his boxers, missing that cock he loved so much that would soon be inside him.

     Senku’s breath hitched when Gen began palming him whilst touching himself, the omega panting like a dog as he did so. He felt the veins on Senku’s length through his underwear until the scientist abruptly pulled them down, unable to take the anticipation. He grabbed Gen by the shoulders, looking him into his eyes.

    “Strip,” Senku ordered. Gen’s eyes went wide- his boyfriend was serious. Gen nodded obediently, his hands going down to his tank top and pulling it over his head to show his bare, pale chest.

     Gen then got off the bed and took off his shorts and underwear, exposing his omegan hips and parts perfectly. Senku could eat him for breakfast if he wanted to. Gen was well aware of this undeniable fact and still chose to toy with his boyfriend. He ran his hand over his chest and down his hip playfully, turning so his ass was facing Senku. The scientist looked like he had just set foot on the moon when he laid eyes on Gen’s beautiful body.

    “Come ‘ere, mentalist,” Senku snickered, wiping the sweat off his forehead with the back of his arm.

   The omega was getting practically eye raped by Senku until he climbed right back onto the alpha, slick rolling down the skin between his thighs. He sat on his lap, Senku running his hands up and down Gen’s hips as he kissed and sucked the magician’s neck. 

     Gen let out those sweet sounds that were practically music to Senku’s ears, whilst grinding his hips against the alpha’s erection. Gen licked his lips with hunger, needing Senku then and there. 

    The omega completely caught Senku off guard when he pulled away and shoved his face between Senku’s legs, yanking his boxers right down to take in the head of Senku’s dick. To say it wasn’t absolutely, ten billion percent the most erotic thing Senku had ever seen would be a lie. Gen’s back arched to perfection showing his cute ass, his wispy white hair against Senku’s leg, his head bobbing as he throated the alpha’s dick. His omega was truly a princess in magician’s clothes.

     “G…en… ah,” Senku gasped, Gen humming on his cock to send vibrations up his body. The green haired scientist could feel the smirk around Gen’s lying lips as he drove him wild. The alpha snaked a hand to Gen’s ass, curling his fingers around the rim and toying with him. Gen let out a squeak of pleasure, quickly regaining his composure to keep up his act for as long as he could.

    Gen, upon releasing Senku’s cock with a loud ‘pop’ sound finally asked him, “Yes, Senku-Chan?”

    “Lay on your back, against my pillow,” Senku ordered once more, like he was commanding his own fleet of astronauts. He’d only be merciless to Gen like this in bed because it turned him on. He wanted Gen on his pillow and side of the bed because he’d be scented like his alpha after the deed was done.

    Gen flipped his hair, putting a hand on his hip and leaning slightly forward to Senku. 

    “Why should I?” He asked cunningly and playfully, “hmmm? Is Senku-Chan going to become the fierce alpha that are in his genes?”

    “Don’t try it, mentalist. I’m harder than a rock and it’s your fault,” Senku snarled.

    “You’re such a knothead for me, Senku sweetie~” Gen cooed, cupping his lover’s face and licking his lips. Senku smashed his lips against Gen’s, nearly smothering him in kisses and his tongue before going to his teeth to punish him.

    “Mmmfph!” Gen squealed, Senku’s mouth practically crushing his. His hands traveled up and down Senku’s back as the alpha practically forced him to submit, Gen eventually (and much to his dismay) lying beneath him. He truly wished to tease Senku more. Senku, however, had other plans- or at least his alpha side did. The side he once hated so much about himself and tried so desperately to conceal. 

    Senku saw the majority of his fellow alphas as senseless, omega-obsessed knotheads. Many alphas that Senku had the misfortune of crossing his path followed this sentiment and even acted on them against the will of omegas. 

     Then, he met Gen, and that changed everything . Gen had Senku’s alpha side on a blinged out leash and collar.

    Senku lifted his mouth off Gen’s, a trail of saliva connecting the two. He wiped his mouth off and went right back to work, keeping his omega pinned so he could toss the boxers around his knees onto the floor.

    “Not a knothead, brat,” Senku grumbled, “i-it’s only logical to pursue an attractive omega that I’m compatible with.”

     “Yadda yadda, okay, now let’s fuck~” Gen said through his evil, coy little smirk.

    Senku rolled his eyes and held up two of his fingers to remind his omega of the stretching process. Gen shook his head, waving a hand dismissively.

    “I’m just so ‘et-way… go ahead~” Gen insisted. Senku shrugged, wiping some sweat off his forehead before taking a deep breath.

    “ ‘kay. If you insist,” Senku said, his usual pokerface turning to a smirk as he slammed his cock into Gen. He was rock hard and desperate, making Gen cried and moaned from the sudden shock of pleasure. The omega arched his back, gripping at the blue bedsheets of Senku’s bed. 

    “Careful, Gen… my dad’s st-still here,” Senku whispered in Gen’s ear. He practically folded the omega in half as he pounded into him, Senku’s stamina and endurance having significantly improved since he started sleeping with Gen.

    “Ah~ ah~ ah!” Gen moaned, curling his toes and trying to wiggle free of Senku’s grasp to make his alpha side come out more. He was blatantly teasing and tempting the alpha, treading on thin ice.

    “Stay!” Senku barked, thrusting deeper. Gen cried out in pleasure again, even more turned on that Senku was being so orderly and dominant. He loved when Senku took control so he could

play with him.

   Gen was seeing stars as Senku rearranged his guts. The two lovers were going at it like rabbits, fucking nonstop for hours. Byakuya had left the house to go for a run and to the gym shortly after Senku came home- the old man dodging a giant bullet. 

    Senku was able to keep going with a few breaks of Gen riding him or sucking him off. It was Gen’s favorite position, after all. Senku loved trying doggystyle on his boyfriend here and there, the alpha deciding to try again that day and knot Gen. 

    It had been hours. The two were exhausted, covered in sweat, cum and other bodily fluids from sex. The highs from heat sex were contagious to the alpha. While Senku’s knot was deflating inside Gen’s body, his phone began to vibrate. Senku had knotted the omega while he was on his knees and then flipped him over to cuddle, with Gen's head against the chest of his alpha. The young scientist groaned in annoyance at his phone. Even if it was Xeno, he wanted some alone time with Gen.

    Senku reached over to his nightstand table, lifting his phone to see who was calling him. The alpha had groaned with halflidded eyes upon picking up his phone until his red eyes made contact with the name plastered across the screen. ‘Vincent’ . The name seemed insignificant to Gen, but to Senku, this guy was a big deal. It was primarily reflexes, Senku pulling out with ease and leaping from the bed to hastily throw on his boxers with an impressive amount of time left as his phone kept ringing. He paced through his room as he swiped and answered the call.

    “Good morning Mr. Botticelli… Senku Ishigami,” Senku began, running his hands through his messy locks. He was clearly disheveled based on his tone of voice alone. 

    As for Gen, he was like a small and grumpy cat under Senku’s rocket patterned comforter. He was still a mess of his own slick, sweat and Senku’s cum, naked and currently emotionally neglected by his boyfriend for some rich guy over the phone. Senku was pacing nervously throughout his room, the quiet but muffled tone of the man on the other end just barely audible to Gen. He even sounded just like an alpha. Gen’s face was plastered with a pouty look before he turned over on his side, facing the window.

    That’s when Senku’s eyes lit up and his lips formed a smile, “well color me impressed and pleased! Thanks for the opportunity, sir! I’ll be joining the next class lecture in a week, yeah?”

    A brief pause, as Gen stared at the photo of them at Stanley and Xeno’s anniversary party hung on the wall above Senku’s desk. He turned onto his back again, propping himself up by the elbow against Senku’s soft pillows.

    “Sounds good. I’ll see you then,” Senku replied, then a short pause, “yeah, you too, man. Take care.”

   Senku hung up shortly after the call ended. Perfect , Gen thought, they could resume the aftersex cuddles. Whatever news Senku got could wait until his alpha was back in bed with him.

   “Mentalist!” Senku said, jumping back into bed beside his boyfriend, “I got it! I got into Xeno’s advanced class! My college is accepting the credits from overseas!”

    Gen’s eyes lit up with excitement along with Senku, throwing his arms around his alpha in celebration of his achievement. Xeno would also love having Senku in his online class as an exemplary student, an elegant scientist and right hand mentor.

    “Congratulations, Senku! Xeno-chan will be simply elated~” Gen replied, cupping Senku’s cheeks to examine the happiness and excitement plastered all over his face.

    “Thanks. It was hard to coax those bastards into letting me in, but they gave in,” Senku snickered. He leaned in and kissed Gen, the two of them falling back onto the pillows together. Senku presented his phone to Gen, waving it in his hands teasingly to show off a text message he got that seemed innocuous.

    “Xeno won’t need us, by the way, he’s got a ride. You know what that means? It’s time to get excited, mentalist.”

     Gen knew what that entailed, the excitement only growing tenfold. Let the festivities begin .

~

     Byakuya Ishigami had arrived home last minute with groceries and a freshly exercised body. He had to stay on top of his cardio, endurance and stamina if it meant sticking around in JAXA whilst paying his bills. Having a famous popstar for a wife also helped him quite a bit in that regard.

    Byakuya hauled in his groceries, one of the bags containing Senku’s favorite cereal so he could eat while he was home from university on spring break. He also had some cola for Gen and ingredients for it so the boys could make it themselves.

    The alpha father of Senku put away all his groceries, wiping some sweat from his forehead due to the heavy lifting.

    “Where are those boys..” he muttered to himself, turning around and heading to the foyer to shout up the stairs at his son and Gen. He opened his mouth to speak, and hesitated. He rubbed the scruff on his chin in thought.

    “Hmm..” Byakuya sighed, then went up the stairs to check on his son instead. He knocked quietly on the door before turning the knob, noting it was unlocked and peered into the room.

    “Hey, son,” Byakuya said quietly, chuckling, “I haven’t seen you all day, are you alive in there?”

    All Byakuya saw was two lumps under the comforter and some green tipped hair sticking out in different directions, and the split hair of the top of Gen’s head and bangs poking out. He was used to seeing Senku and Gen cuddle, it was nothing new.

    Senku stirred, rubbing his eyes from the comforter once covering his face and turning over to see his father at the door. He was totally naked, covered in hickeys and cum underneath the blankets. He thanked god it was dark enough in his room to slip under his father’s wholesome radar. Byakuya must’ve smelled what activities his son was up to before if he didn’t see them, however, and didn’t seem to mind- he knew the scent of an omega in heat and cared for his own wife when she went into heat. He was an empathetic, understanding and kind man who cared for his adult son but also let him screw around as long as he behaved and took proper care of his omega and living space.

    “Yeah, yeah. We’ll be out in 15,” Senku replied, yawning. He waved his hand to shoo his dad away for the sake of his dignity and privacy. 

    Byakuya took that as his cue to leave and shut the door quietly behind him, smiling to himself like the dork he was at heart. He was happy for his son that he finally found someone who danced to the beat of his drum and trumped his love for science, as crazy as that sounded.

    Senku’s old man went back downstairs to get a head start on his dinner crusade while his son got his shit together. Senku himself used what willpower he had to get out of bed, grab a towel and take the fastest shower he could. He was back into his bedroom within ten minutes with the towel around his waist and his wet hair over his shoulders. 

   Gen was awake by the time Senku returned into his bedroom, peeking over the covers. Senku knew before he even saw his boyfriend that he was awake- he wasn’t fooling the scientist.

   “I knew you were awake. My comforter doesn’t meow,” Senku said, then snickering, “do I have competition with that game now? Am I forced to compete for my partner’s love over a cat game? That doesn’t get me excited at all.”

   Senku was mostly teasing and Gen knew that, despite it all, he still felt bad. The mentalist promptly shut his phone off and put it on the bed beside him. 

    “So ‘orry-say, dear Senku..” Gen said with a sigh, purposely putting on an act. He was swapping between his masks as a subconscious act that was embedded deep into his psyche. His heat didn’t exactly help with that, either.

    “Nah, you’re not. Cm’ere,” Senku insisted, holding his arms out, “give me a real apology from the Asagiri Gen I’m in love with.”

    Right for the jugular . Gen was practically shot in the chest by words, his eyes going wide and the hairs on his arms all standing up at once. His lip quivered, “I’m sorry. I really am. I love you, Senku!”

   Gen sprung up from the bed with life, his head hung as he trutted to Senku and hugged him tightly, burying his head in the alpha’s shoulder. An omega being taller than their alpha was practically unheard of, yet here Gen and Senku were proving more stereotypes wrong. 

    “I love ya too, mentalist,” Senku replied, ruffling Gen’s hair as he hugged him back.

    “Keep your hair down today, by the way, it’s soooo ‘etty-pray~,” Gen sung, lifting his head back up to meet Senku in the eyes. He loved small things about his boyfriend, like his beautiful white hair that faded to green. 

Chapter Text

    “Will do,” Senku replied with a cheeky grin, “now get in the shower, or you’ll end up smelling like a hooker after she has a discount.”

   “Senku-Chan!” Gen gasped, covering his mouth, “how ‘ude-ray!”

   “I didn’t say you smelled like that, I said you will if you don’t wash yourself, Gen,” Senku insisted, putting his hands up defensively with an evil smirk plastered all over his face.

    “I am a faithful hooker, thank you!” Gen huffed, snatching a towel and then getting a change of clothes from his suitcase. 

    “I’d have died of syphilis by now, mentalist, I know,” Senku laughed, “love ya. Now go shower so my old man doesn’t get weirded out.”

    “On my way~” Gen chirped, throwing his clothes over his shoulder and cheerily grabbing Senku’s university hoodie from his desk chair on his way out like it was second nature to him. 

~

    Gen basked in the warmth of the shower for much longer than Senku did, taking his time to keep up his appearance- after all, he’d be back on stage in just about a week. After he stepped out of the shower he put his hair in a turban with a towel and began to dry off his body, then applying some cream to his face to soothe his sensitive skin. 

   “Mentalist? You almost done?” Senku’s angelic voice called from the hallway.

   “Yes, sweetie~!” Gen replied in a sarcastic tone, “beauty takes time!”

   The omega went back to inspecting himself in the mirror, adding powder and even a slight hint of makeup around his eyes to make the eye bags practically disappear. 

   Gen put on his clothes for the day once his beauty routine was done, consisting of just a purple and blue tie-dye t-shirt and a pair of black shorts. He wasn’t dressing to impress, just to be comfortable. He knew his body was eye candy to Senku even if he wore a trash bag.

    When Gen opened the bathroom door (which was across from Senku’s room), he was met with a sight for sore eyes- Senku’s back as he was putting a shirt on. His alpha looked stunning with the dusk sunlight pouring in through the curtains around him. His hair being down on his shoulders was just the icing on the cake. 

    “Senku-Channn, I’m back~” Gen sang, wrapping his arms around his boyfriend from behind, “you look incredible , if you must know.”

    “Heh, thanks,” Senku replied, straightening his shirt out, “you got it going on, too.”

    “That’s only thanks to my impeccable charm,” Gen replied cheekily, planting a wet and long kiss on Senku’s cheek before letting him go and taking his hand.

    “Let’s not keep my father-in-law waiting, now, honey!”

    Senku blushed heavily at Gen’s comment about Byakuya. He didn’t even think about marrying Gen yet that day- he usually thought about it often, but they weren’t even mated yet. Is it possible they’d be able to get married within a year or two? Senku, being the alpha, would have to propose- which meant buying a ring, planning a wedding, inviting everyone, not to mention Xeno’s pregnancy could be an issue-.

    “Senku-Chan? Watch your step!” Gen gasped, snapping his fingers in front of Senku’s eyes as they made their way to the stairs, Senku nearly tripping and falling down the first step because of his daydreaming.

    “Fuck- my bad, sorry,” Senku stuttered, his eyes briefly going wide when he was brought back down to reality. He saw the worried look in Gen’s eyes, anticipating the question he was about to get.

    “Is everything okay?” Gen asked, “perhaps it was my comment about your dad… my apologies, I won’t-“

    “No, that’s fine, it just caught me off guard. I liked it,” Senku assured his omega, waving his hand quickly to signify Gen had the wrong idea at first.

   Gen’s eyes lit up with excitement, taking that validation as a green light to plant a kiss on Senku’s other cheek.

    “Wonderful! One day, he will be!”

~

    “Just like that, and try not to cut your finger off, there, kiddo!” Byakuya laughed. He was teaching Gen how to properly skin a potato whilst managing to keep all ten of his fingers intact. Gen was a man with nimble fingers and hands, but he was more used to holding a deck of cards or a magic wand instead of a sharp object. The magician looked focused as he gave the potato a good peel back of some skin.

    “Perfect. Now, let’s see how my boy is doing!” Byakuya said, going to the other counter to check on Senku, who was on raw chicken duty.

    “Hey, old man, trying to beat the chicken down here so it’s flat and easier to cook,” Senku replied, “these raw meat juices are ten billion percent gross , though.”

   Byakuya laughed and patted his son on the back, “get in there and dig deep! Just don’t get any in your hair!”

   Senku sighed, admitting defeat and accepting his fate of having to wash his hands down once he was done prepping. It was why he always wore his hair up- it made his appearance unforgettable and mad scientist-like, on top of keeping his hair out of the way.

    The two kids took seats at the table once Byakuya took over to cook the prepped food. He seasoned the hell out of the meat, cooking it over the stove while Senku and Gen chatted away at the table. There were words of banter, some speaking of Gen’s appearance on social media and what his next gig will be for his shows. Byakuya couldn’t help but wonder, deciding to interrupt to see when Gen would be performing again.

    “Speaking of which, Gen, when’s your next show?” Byakuya asked, “I may be able to make it if I’m passing through that city, JAXA called me in to come in sometime next week.”

    “Oh, how lovely! Well, let’s see here~” Gen responded in a sing-songy tone to Senku’s father, checking his phone for a message from his manager, “ah! So, it’s next week, that Friday. I’d get tickets soon before it gets sold out. I’m in quite high demand in Onigawara~”

     Senku snorted, “so will you be around to help old man Stanley back home? I can’t deal with him by myself sometimes.”

     “Perhaps… we shall see,” Gen sighed, “I need to be back at my apartment Thursday, soooo.. it all depends on when he’s getting ‘ome-hay. I can ask Xeno-Chan!”

     Byakuya was listening to the boys and pondering how he could help out in this situation. If Gen missed the boat with welcoming Stanley home, he’d be able to fill his shoes- even if Stanley and Xeno loved Gen much more. 

    “Hey, hey- before we cancel plans! I can help out,” Byakuya insisted with a laugh, then looking over his shoulder at Gen, “Senku and I can handle those two, you know how their fury can be- like the power of hundreds of machines.”

     Gen nervously chuckled and exchanged looks of ‘true, but scary’ with Senku. 

    “They’ve made too many world domination plans around us to be considered ‘ormal-nay,” Gen remarked, “but I believe they care for us. At least a little bit!”

     “Mentalist, we wouldn’t let them take over the world. Everyone would be getting shot by Stanley,” Senku replied, his demeanor changing from a lighthearted smirk to dark and disturbing, “me included.”

     “Whoa! Let’s not make this conversation dark!” Byakuya gasped, waving his oven mitt covered hand frantically, “Senku, you can be so crude!”

    Senku shrugged, his brutal honesty being second nature to everyone around him- let alone himself. He had an ‘evil mad scientist side’, as Gen put it. Senku was crude, deadpan and outspoken since Byakuya adopted him at a year and a half old. The day the then 28 year old Byakuya brought Senku home, Senku was spitting remarks at him even while in diapers. The then toddler that Senku was, was perfectly able to tell the amateur father Byakuya off with “that’s dumb!” To his offer of taking a bath before dinner instead of after. Senku was a frail child before Byakuya took him in. He was abandoned at birth by his biological father and his mother died under ‘mysterious circumstances’ after Senku’s birth, as the young orphanage worker put it.

    Byakuya, on Senku’s 18th birthday, told him that story, appalling his son- naturally. Yet, Senku didn’t prioritize the project to figure out what happened to his mother and where the hell his biological father went. After the initial shock, he had shrugged and thought it was a waste of time to find the deadbeat, and if his biological father didn’t give him the time of day as a baby, he wouldn’t give it to him either. As for his mother, Senku would go on to tell Byakuya that he ‘ten billion percent didn’t feel like solving murder mysteries yet’.

    Senku had asked his father why he didn’t mate an omega himself when he turned 18. The truth was, Byakuya couldn’t handle it. He was crippled with anxiety as a young alpha and always backed away at any opportunity to go on a date with an omega. That may have partially been due to the raw love he saw between his younger omegan coworker, Dr. Xeno, who was able to keep Stanley on a leash wrapped around his gloved fingers. Stanley would come into his work once in a while to see Xeno and Byakuya was happy for them, of course, but he wasn’t ready himself.

   So there Senku sat, happy with his adopted parents, his friends and loyal omega by his side. Byakuya prayed that he’d get a grandchild one day from Senku. He fully anticipated that Senku and himself would be alone until Byakuya eventually kicked the bucket, but that was all proven wrong when Senku first brought Gen to meet his father- when the scientist was 18, and Gen was 21.

    Byakuya was cooking dinner and lost in thought as his son and Gen continued chatting and bantering on and on about god knows what, probably Gen’s show or Stanley’s motorcycle that he said he’d take them for a ride on again soon.

    Byakuya’s Flashback

      Senku: we’ll be over in 15. You sure it’s all good?

      Byakuya: absolutely! Bring him on in, I can’t wait to meet the kid that won YOU over of all people!! 😄

    Byakuya, three years ago, was sat on his couch in the sitting room to the left of the main foyer, watching a mindless program on housewives with his own wife and omega, Lillian. She was curled up in a warm blanket, scrunchie in her hair, cozy slippers and pajamas to complete the lazy day look. Byakuya himself had a sweater and jeans on, nothing too fancy. He recalled that fateful day like it was yesterday. His son was seeing an omegan man that he met purely by chance after said omega ran away from his ex boyfriend, his manager , of all people, (this guy must’ve been a big deal), and his apartment to ‘escape for a couple days’, as Senku put it. Senku met this omega at a science museum when he was presenting a project from university, they saw each other in passing and happened to board the same, nearly full capacity train that took Senku home. The famous omega had taken the only remaining seat beside Senku, and the two hit it off instantly. Senku took him out for dinner that night and the rest was history.

     Senku had said that when the omega removed his surgical mask, sunglasses and beanie disguise that he was as beautiful as crystalline structures. It melted Byakuya’s heart to see his son crushing on someone.

    So there the eager dad waited, trying not to pop a gasket at the thought of his son happy with an omega. He always wanted grandkids, after all! What was twenty minutes felt like an eternity for the Ishigami father that when he heard the door unlock from Senku’s key, he sprung right up, startling Lillian beside him.

    “Goodness, hun! You haven’t been this excited since Senku’s birthday!” Lillian gasped, a smile on her face at the excitement of her husband. She put a hand on his back to help ground him but that didn’t stop Byakuya. He went to the front door to welcome his son home.

   Nothing truly prepared Byakuya to lay eyes on the sight he saw when Senku stood on the other side of the door. The proudness, joy, warmth, and excitement he felt when he saw Senku with his arm around an omega’s waist was immeasurable. His son was his pride and joy, so this omega clearly fit the bill well enough to be Senku’s future mate.

    Byakuya laid eyes on the omega in question. He was slightly taller than Senku with split dyed black and white hair, the white side of his hair longer than the black. He had sapphire blue eyes and a soft looking face with a button nose. He wore a black cropped shirt with high waisted jeans, a purple scent blocking collar and a purple hoodie, contrasting with Senku’s choice of a t-shirt reading ‘E=MC2’, and khaki shorts. 

     “Hey, Byakuya,” Senku said with a smirk, pushing his date closer to his father to be able to properly meet him, “this is Asagiri Gen, my boyfriend.”

     Byakuya gasped, covering his mouth with his hand as if he needed to be taken out of his house on a stretcher. He’s seen this omega on TV when he’d watch programs in the evening with Lillian, curled up on the couch.

    “Oh my god, it’s HIM !” The man gasped, acting much like a teenage girl, “I’ve seen you on TV!”

     Gen’s smile was both an act to show how cunning he was, but also a genuine one of kindness. He bowed his head out of respect for Senku’s father.

    “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Byakuya,” Gen said, lifting his head back up to meet the man in the eyes, “you’ve done a good job with Senku-Chan.”

    Gen’s eyes also traveled behind the unknowing Byakuya to his wife, who was peeking over his shoulder to see who won over Senku’s affection. She was appalled as well, having seen Gen throughout her own career on billboards and tour buses alike. 

    “Asagiri Gen!” Lillian gasped, practically gushing over the two kids, “oh my, you’re the charmer that’s won over our boy? The famous magician! That’s, well… magical!”

    Lillian was attempting to hold the conversation for the gushing Byakuya’s sake. She and Senku knew him better than anyone, and he was absolutely over the moon (not in real time, thankfully) about his son. He was so proud.

    Gen nodded, “Lillian Weinberg, is Senku’s mom?”

    Lillian quickly shook her head, “stepmom! Oh, sweetheart, can I shake your hand?”

    Gen outstretched both his hands for Byakuya and Lillian as if to welcome him to the chaotic Ishigami family. They were always welcoming new misfits, even the famous ones. The magician that Senku brought home was elated to shake the hands of Lillian and Byakuya- he didn’t get this kind of approval from his own parents, so getting them from his new boyfriend’s was like having a giant pair of arms give him a validation and acceptance hug.

    “Welcome to our family, then!” Byakuya chirped, moving out of the way to let the two boys into the house, “let’s have some dinner, maybe smash.”

    Gen’s eyes went wider than ever, he couldn’t help but loudly gasp. It earned a laugh from the three Ishigami family members and Senku threw an arm around his shoulders to assure him it was just another word of lingo within the family.

     “He means super smash bros. My old man’s just trying to get a reaction outta ya!” Senku snickered, “no need to worry, mentalist. We won’t move that fast.”

    Gen’s expression of shock quickly turned to joy, his eyes lighting up.

    “I’d love that, then!”

End flashback

    “Byakuya?” Senku called from the other side of the kitchen, “snap outta it, old man!”

    Senku was drumming his fingers on the table. He was hungry and getting rather ticked off that his old man was staring off into space and making the occasional happy hum. Gen nudged Senku, giving him the pouty look of ‘be nicer to your father!’ , to which Senku nodded with a look or defeat. He’d give into Gen this time, the two people who touched his soul the most were sitting in that room with him.

    “S-sorry, dad-“ Senku stuttered, “probably illogical of me.”

    Senku looked over at Gen to ask if that was good enough, and Gen nodded. He wanted to strengthen his relationship with his father after being away at university for a couple years. 

    Byakuya spun around and leaned against the counters, a soft smile on his face.

    “Thank you, son, but it’s okay. I was daydreaming, actually! Remember the day you brought Gen over for the first time?”

    Senku couldn’t stifle his token and beloved grin. He ran a hand through his locks, “of course I do! How could I forget how you were jumping around like a kid?”

    Senku was slightly embarrassed in the moment, but looking back, he was glad Byakuya was unapologetically himself and wasn’t afraid to love his son unconditionally.

    “I remember that day as if it was yesterday myself~” Gen added, propping his chin on his hand, “Senku-Chan practically swept me off my feet.”

    Senku looked over at the pining and gorgeous Gen, smiling softly at him, “oh, did I? Even when I practically told you to go fuck yourself at the museum?”

    “Mhm~” Gen replied, lowering his voice, “it was hot. You’re hot.”

    Byakuya rolled his eyes, “get a room, or have some dinner, you two! It’s almost done here!”

~

    The rambunctious and adorning family shared their dinner as planned while they awaited Lillian’s return. She was either coming back around midnight or 3 AM, depending on which flight she could catch.

   Byakuya went to bed at his usual time of 11 PM, leaving Senku and Gen to their own devices in super smash bros and Mario kart. The young omega fell asleep on that very couch, curled up in Senku’s favorite Sherpa blue blanket. The alpha couldn’t help but gush at how precious Gen looked, hating to disturb him. So Senku did what he seemed was most logical and grabbed a folded blanket from the adjacent couch and climbed in right alongside Gen, pulling the omega against him and falling asleep after recalling the periodic table, like counting sheep.

Chapter Text

9 Days Later 

     The early morning was never kind to Stanley’s pain levels. That day was no different, with him grunting in pain by just sitting up in bed to use the bathroom. He had a cast around his broken ankle to help the healing process, meaning the stubborn and prideful alpha had to walk with crutches just to take a piss. He was livid and wanted to go home. The humming of the machinery, buzzing of the bright hospital lights and the occasional sound of another patient disturbed the man almost constantly as he laid in that bed for over a week. 

    Stanley was in no mood to fuck around. He was just waiting for his discharge paperwork to go back home after his stitches were removed the evening before. He missed the week 3 ultrasound appointment for his pup, which already set his temper through the roof, like a screaming kettle, or a dog with his muzzle ready to sink his teeth into any unfortunate soul that dared to take it off. 

   “Goddamnit all… fuckin’ piece of shit leg!” Stanley muttered to himself through gritted teeth. He stood up, reaching for his crutches and going to his bathroom. He didn’t care to wear anything except his boxers so nurses didn’t see his dick hanging out while he was in bed. The alpha felt a pounding headache of dehydration, withdrawals, stress and his emotions that he typically kept bottled up. When Stanley was normally upset, he’d go for a smoke outside or practice throwing with his knives. He couldn’t do either of those things, and the nicotine supplement patches were not even remotely close enough to the amount he usually took in. He was feeling the withdrawals kick his ass along with the pain of his concussion and broken bones.

    Stanley managed to get himself into the bathroom, do his business and leave promptly. Xeno had gone home the night before to get good sleep in his bed- but only with Stanley’s coaxing of him to do so. He didn’t want anything happening to their pup because of Xeno’s bad habits- like his damn coffee or lack of sleeping. He typically stayed up beside Stanley in bed, or with a chair pulled over to read a book. Xeno needed sleep for the pup’s sake, no more fucking around when they had their miracle child.

    The alpha soldier reached over to his bedside table for his phone. He was bored, depressed and homesick.

   Today was supposed to be the day. The day he’d finally go home to his mate so they could take care of each other through it all. He made it across several countries to get life saving surgery and finally was bouncing back.

     When Stanley saw Xeno’s contact in his phone and the time, 7:14, he wagered Xeno was probably still asleep. He looked exhausted when he left the other day. The alpha wanted so badly to be selfish, but he loved Xeno and his pup too much to do that to them. So, he’d wait.

   And wait.

     And wait…

   It was pure hell waiting another two hours to call Xeno. Stanley told the nurses to ‘sit on a chair upside down’ when they offered him breakfast because of how he was feeling. He even garnered the reputation of being the snippy alpha soldier with a huge pride who hated everyone and Stanley couldn’t have given less of a shit. If they weren’t Xeno, he didn’t want to hear it.

     At 9:30 in the morning, Stanley finally decided to give his mate a call and ask him to come over and bring him home later. He simply couldn’t take it anymore, like trying to hold a beach ball under the water, eventually he caved and hit that call button.

   The phone rang for a few moments until Xeno finally picked up. A sinking feeling was in Stanley’s stomach.

    “Stan…?” The omega asked, sleepiness still permeating his voice like he had just come out of a deep sleep, “are… you okay?”

    Stanley paused, pinching the bridge of his nose. Fuck . He woke the sleeping beauty.

    “Yeah, Xe. I’m fine. I just wanted to see you.”

    “I’ll… come over… uh… in an hour or two... Okay?” Xeno asked, “then we’ll bring you home.”

    Stanley heard the smile in his husband’s voice at the second part of his statement. He couldn’t wait to sleep in his own bed. If he was going to rot, he’d want to do it beside Xeno in their shared bed. Together . Get through it, no matter what.

    “I just… baby, I feel like I’m goin’ crazy in here. I hate to be selfish, I know… you gotta rest. I’m sorry,” Stanley stuttered. Only Xeno had the chance to see his husband in such a distressed state, he almost never showed his emotions around anyone else. Stanley was always taught- stay focused, never let your emotions overcloud your judgment on the battlefield. Pull the trigger when your gut tells you to and never hesitate.

   “Stan… I’ll send you some more ultrasounds.. they’ll help you,” Xeno replied, yawning, “I love you… always.”

    “You didn’t send them all?” Stanley asked, offended, then snapping back to reality and grounding himself, “goddamnit, Xe… just go back to bed, okay?”

    “There… was a couple from this week… that I just got… I’ll send them. I love you,” Xeno repeated, “goodnight, Stan…”

    “I love you too, doll. See ya later when I finally get the fuck outta here,” Stanley replied, Xeno letting out a satisfied ‘mmm’ as a response before his alpha finally hung up. He shouldn’t have called his omega this early… Maybe he should’ve just followed the soldier’s instincts and listened to his gut after all.

    Stanley rubbed his achy forehead as he fell back onto his pillows. He was exhausted and overwhelmed, his withdrawals truly taking a hold on him worse than any pain he felt during that stay. His phone promptly buzzed with two ultrasound photos that Xeno got, then a message following that.

    ‘ The nirse forgot to send me them befor an I just saw them last night. love you. See you later -X ’

    The typos made Stanley smile. Xeno was exhausted and he felt terrible for waking his mate. He typed out a reply shortly after Xeno sent his message. Despite his headache from his concussion, he kept on going with his phone.

    Go back to sleep, now Xe. I’m not going anywhere. Love you too. Always

    Stanley then clicked on the ultrasound pictures of his tiny pup, so small that it would be invisible to the naked eye. He could cry just at the thought of this being real, after wanting a pup for so many years, he was finally getting the chance to share parenthood with Xeno. 

    The alpha shut off his phone, placing it beside him on the bed to fall back to sleep. He felt less alone knowing his pup was in his phone beside him, as dumb as he thought that sounded. Stanley felt like he may have been going insane just by staying in the ginormous hospital anyways.

~

   11:13 AM, USMC, Captain Stanley Snyder

   Stanley Snyder was a man of his word. What he said, went how it was supposed to. So when he saw that woman’s face again, he wanted to strangle her.

    “Stanley, I have something for you.”

    Stanley’s already light and shitty sleep was so rudely disturbed by that woman. His ex-girlfriend, Annalise, whom he had told to fuck off once. He’d happily do it again. Her soft voice was unfortunately recognizable to the alpha, her omega scent was entering his room. Where the hell was her scent blocking collar? Wasn’t staff supposed to wear those at all times? 

    “Fuck off,” Stanley muttered, almost protective over himself and his peace. He wasn’t a high schooler jerking off to Xeno anymore, he was married and expecting a pup with his crush of many years. 

    “Stan, I have your discharge paperwork here for you. Just turn around and I’ll show them to you..” she said, her voice turning softer by the second.

    “You can take those papers and shove each one of them so far up your own ass that they’ll reach the alpha cum you drank last night. Stop tryin’ to hit on me.”

    Annalise gasped, wanting so badly to raise her hand to this crude, outspoken and nasty alpha she once called a boyfriend back in high school. She also didn’t feel like losing her job, so she stood her ground and stayed somewhat professional. She needed to at least try to get into Stanley’s pants at some point while he was there.

    “Stan, you haven’t changed a bit… come on, now, we know you’re a playboy…” Annalise sighed, “we were the football captain and cheerleader. Remember?”

    “Ugh. Don’t fucking remind me. I was pretending you were my current omega, that, oh, I’m married to while I fucked you. I’ve always had a thing for Xeno,” Stanley snapped, turning over his shoulder to look at the woman before him, “get the fuck out. Get me a new nurse.”

    “You’re such a liar. No discharge paperwork?” Annalise said, pretending to act hurt, “Stanley… let me help you get home. Forget Xeno like you forgot Max, too.”

    “You fucking bitch ! Shut up!” Stanley shouted, sitting up in bed. How did Annalise know his dirty secrets before Xeno? Unless… that asshole Max snitched on him in senior year or something.

    Stanley quickly shouted to an oncoming nurse that was walking by for help. He needed this woman gone for good. She was a ghost haunting him by digging up his old flings and secrets that he had long forgotten. She wasn’t over him, that was how good of an alpha Stanley was, apparently. It was a nice stroke to the ego in a sort of fucked up way. 

    Needless to say, Annalise was dragged out of the room by security and Stanley was given his actual nurse for the day after his ex had snuck in after her hours to see him. He prayed to Xeno that she’d be fired after that encounter.

    The nurse that gave Stanley his discharge paperwork gave him a basic rundown of what to do. No yoga or high intensity exercises for weeks. Limit the walking, no running, no heavy lifting, limit phone and TV screens as much as possible (which he already screwed up), and even more of a laundry list. He planned to stay in bed for a couple days to really rest up his stomach wound, head and ankle. Now, all he needed was his husband to come see him and bring him home.

~

    2:46 PM, USMC, Captain Stanley Snyder

   “Yeah, uh, Xeno isn’t here yet, and I’m kinda worried. I’m supposed to be goin’ home today.”

   The alpha Stanley was on the phone with his high school buddy and Xeno’s coworker, Dr. Brody Dudley. He could always rely on his good friend for anything, including getting him home from the hospital. He was incredibly worried about his mate, even if his claim mark was okay, Xeno must’ve been sleeping more than he had in the days he stayed with Stanley at the hospital. Which meant Stanley was lied to about how much Xeno slept by his omega.

    “Wait, where’s Xeno? Back at home?” Brody asked, “do you need a ride there?”

    “Yeah, that’d probably be best. If you’re close by that’d be a great help and save him the drive. Oh, we’re pregnant by the way, so he’s fuckin’ exhausted after staying with me and I’m sure he’s going through emotional shit right now,” Stanley explained, his smirk coming through the phone to his good friend at delivering the news. He had to hide his guilt and fear of killing his pup from exhaustion to its mother somehow.

    “Well, damn, that’s one way to tell me! Congrats, dude!” Brody cheered, “I know how much you and Xeno wanted this. I’m happy for you guys! I’ll swoop in and help, today’s my day off. You want a smoke?”

   “Oh my god, I’d fucking kill for one, man.”

~

    Of course, the kind of man that Stanley was wouldn’t allow himself to be wheeled out of that hospital by some bedpan changing nurse to see his housewife. The smell of the air and sun in the sky was surreal to the alpha. He hadn’t realized how much he appreciated the outside world until it was ripped away from him by Moz’s knife on that fateful day. 

   The alpha had dressed himself in his original uniform pants, and decided to go shirtless on his way home. His undershirt and jacket were cut off his body for surgery and all that remained were his dog tags. It wasn’t a crime to look as good as he knew he did, anyway. Stanley wanted to mentally separate himself from that horrible hospital stay by removing any clothing from them whatsoever. 

    Stanley sat on the bench outside the hospital entryway as he awaited Brody’s black truck. He felt like a grandpa instead of a father-to-be, watching the birds fly about and the conveyor belt of clouds in the sky. He was so lost in thought of his fears of becoming a father, what was going on with Xeno, and more piled on top of that. His worst fear of all was somehow losing this miracle pregnancy and pup.

    “Hey, hot shot!” Brody called from his truck, “come on in! I got a special something for ya!”

    Stanley rolled his eyes, picking up his crutches and going to Brody’s truck. He climbed into shotgun, Brody fishing in his pocket for something.

    “Congrats, man!” Brody said, patting Stanley’s shoulder, “That was one way to tell me you and Xeno’s news! Here, I’d say you’ve earned this.”

    Stanley’s eyes went wider than ever when he saw what was in Brody’s palm. The thing he was craving the most after Xeno. Cigarettes.

    The alpha snatched them from Brody quicker than he could even think, fumbling the box for a cigarette and managing to get one out with his shaky and withdrawn hands of excitement. Brody was driving but able to hand Stanley a lighter he had picked up that same outing. Stanley popped the cigarette in his mouth desperately, his shaky hand flicking the lighter a couple times before a small flame kindled below the carcinogenic stick. 

   The alpha felt like a wave- no, a tsunami of relief had crashed right at him and soothed his withdrawn nerves, the waves hugging his body. Stanley had warmed out and found its missing piece of the puzzle. Stanley held the cigarette between his naked, usually colored lips and puffed out a big cloud of smoke before holding the cigarette between his fingers.

    “Ah… thanks, man. I’m feelin’ better already,” Stanley sighed, “goddamn, didn’t realize how much a cigarette can help a dude out.”

    “No problem, Stan. Tell me about this pup! Got a gender reveal?” Brody asked, “congrats, though, I know you’ll be a great dad.”

    Stanley smiled to himself. Brody was a longtime friend of his and always supportive in whatever he did. The alpha had confided in his best friend when he and Xeno couldn’t get pregnant before, even asking Brody for advice at one point on how to make the sex better in getting his omega knocked up despite all his health issues. 

    “Thanks Brody, really. I think you were right about syncing our rut and heat. That seemed to work this time around,” Stanley replied, “not to get.. you know, fuck it, man. You’ve heard too much shit about my personal life for me to give a damn.”

    Brody laughed, pushing up his sunglasses after taking a turn in the road, “no problem. How many times did ya help me in hockey, football and baseball back in the day? I still have no clue how you did it.”

     Stanley shrugged, “you know how my old man was a macho military guy. Prolly where I got it from.”

     Brody took a quick look at Stanley, “give yourself a little credit. You’re not just Xeno’s dog if that’s what’s on your mind. You’re your own person. Always have been, always will be.”

    Stanley sighed a cloud of smoke, taking another long drag of his cigarette to help soothe his nerves. He felt the chemicals travel from his lungs to his blood, down to the cellular level to relax every muscle in his body. Brody was second to Xeno in knowing a lot about the alpha. Because Brody was a fellow alpha, he could understand Stanley on a level that Xeno couldn’t.

    “Yeah, yeah. Still, Xeno’s my whole damn world, even more so now that he’s got my kid in him. I won’t leave his side,” Stanley insisted, taking another drag of his cigarette, “I’ve never loved a person more than that damn scientist.”

    Brody smiled, patting Stanley’s back, “you’ve always had a thing for him, that much I knew. Congrats again on the baby, Stan. Any help you need with Xeno or the kid just let me know. I’ll come through for you.”

    “Brody, goddamn. Don’t make me cry like a teenage girl. Thank you,” Stanley chuckled, running a hand through his tattered hair that he normally kept slicked back. He was a mess in more ways than one. 

Chapter Text

    “Don’t smoke the whole pack, man! We’re just down the road!” Brody laughed, “goddamn!”

    Brody had made the half hour trek back to Stanley and Xeno’s humble little home, just making his way up the hill in his truck to see the home and Byakuya’s peeking beside it through the trees. 

   When Stanley’s eyes met his home through the cloud of smoke, he wanted to cry. He was finally back. He’d be able to rest with his omega and pup to heal his broken body and let Xeno grow their child. 

     The white little house that stood amongst the grassy area surrounded by trees and that same small pond was giving Stanley a feeling of comfort that he hadn’t felt since Xeno stayed with him in the hospital, and even then, the feeling of home couldn’t have been replicated by a hospital bed even if his omega was beside him. He was back. He could finally rest, prop his ankle on a pillow and cuddle Xeno as much as he wanted. Drink warm coffee, watch movies, and most importantly- go with Xeno to his appointments.

    “Listen, dude, I’ve been starving for over a week. Don’t test me,” Stanley replied, “and I can’t smoke in the house with the missus. Especially when she’s pregnant. She’ll throw a fit uglier than when we touched that chemistry set and broke a beaker.”

    Brody chuckled, “true. He really is like a woman sometimes. And do not tell Xeno I said that. He’s a great guy, acts like a guy, but… I can’t explain it. He just does things like a girl.”

    Stanley couldn’t help but laugh, “that’s exactly it!”

    Brody pulled his truck into the driveway where Xeno’s car was still parked. Good, he had made it back home safely. There was a part of Stanley that always worried about Xeno and his safe return home. He’d only get bigger, which meant he couldn’t drive for much longer. As soon as his ankle was healed enough, Stanley wasn’t going to let his mate drive. But at that moment, what good was an injured king Lion and his pregnant lioness going to do?

     “Welcome home, Stan. It’s been a long time comin’, I’m sure,” Brody said, patting Stanley’s back, “let’s go see what Xeno’s up to.”

    Stanley nodded, overwhelmed with emotion. Brody had seen him cry once before and that was it. But here and now, in that very moment, Stanley wanted to. He fought it for as long as he could until those floodgates opened.

    The alpha let two stray tears roll down his cheeks, promptly rubbing them away with his bare arm. Two more. And then three.

    Brody heard the sniffles and turned over at his friend, “aw, Stan, it’ll be alright. I know it’s a lot for you.”

    Stanley smiled halfheartedly, “fuck- man, I know, it’s just… a lot, right now.”

    Doctors put their full faith in Stanley Snyder to behave and use his crutches for walking. Still, he’d probably rebel when having to take a piss or if he got really, really horny. Brody went into his backseat to grab said crutches and make his way to shotgun and help Stanley out of the car. 

    “C’mere, Stan,” Brody said, holding his hands out, “I’ll help ya so we don’t break the other one.”

    The prideful alpha wanted to cry all over again. He felt like a senile, useless old man who couldn’t take care of himself. He could hardly walk anymore.

     Stanley knew that in order to get better for the sake of Xeno and his pup, he had to do this. That was why he outstretched his arms to Brody and let him help him out of the truck.

    “Fuck- Jesus, oh my god,” Stanley said, the pain of landing shooting up his entire leg, “hand me those damn things.”

    Brody didn’t hesitate in giving Stanley his crutches, following the ever so determined alpha into his home to unlock the door. Brody had a spare key from housesitting years ago, mainly for Xeno, and he kept it in case things went to shit.

   “I wouldn’t go in shouting for princess scientist, there, keep your voice down,” Stanley insisted, “there’s a good chance he’s sleeping.”

    Brody looked confused beyond belief, pausing the fiddling of his keys, “at 3 in the afternoon?”

    The look of guilt washed over the blond alpha’s face, “y-yeah… he uh… he stayed with me. All those days… and I can’t even tell ya how much sleep he lost. Called him earlier and he sounded like I woke him up from a coma. He’d call me if there was an emergency, so I… I won’t worry myself black and blue.”

    “Damn… you’re right, though. Xeno’s the first person who would know that kind of thing,” Brody replied, turning the key in the door, “hey, at least he locked the door.”

    When the two men entered the house, it was like the occupants had just up and left it- there were still signs of life, just not in the kitchen or living room, Xeno’s desk by the fireplace also being empty indicated his exact location; the door to their bedroom was slid completely shut, when it was usually left slightly ajar unless Stanley and Xeno were going at it.

    The kitchen had a kettle on the stove and a mug on the counter that was three quarters of the way empty. Stanley went over to it himself, touching the mug and then the kettle. Cold. How long was Xeno sleeping for, anyways?

    “He’s gotta be dead tired, poor thing,” Brody sighed, “want me to wait here?”

    The other alpha pointed to the kitchen table to sit at, opposite of the bedroom that was on the other side of the house. Stanley nodded. Brody knew him too well, especially that he loved his privacy with Xeno.

    “Thanks again, man. Appreciate it,” Stanley said, “I’ll go wake up sleeping beauty.”

    Stanley used his crutches to make his way through the living room and to his shared bedroom with Xeno. He held onto one of his crutches, using his stronger side to keep his body propped so he could slowly open the door to the bedroom and see the omega he missed so dearly. 

    The open door revealed a dark bedroom with mostly closed curtains, some sunlight seeping through the crack to allow light to creep into the room if Xeno was to get up. There were snores filling the room as soon as that door was opened. 

   Stanley’s omega laid on the bed, completely crashed. He was on his side of the bed, however, leaving Stanley’s side completely empty with Xeno’s back facing him. Xeno’s hair was down once again, and he wore a satin black nightshirt that resembled a nightgown almost too well. The alpha couldn't help but smile. Xeno was so damn cute, and he felt relieved his omega was safe, because that meant the pup was, too. 

    Stanley went right up to his side of the bed, leaving his crutches propped against the night table so he could sneak right in and surprise his mate. He didn't want to scare him so badly that he’d send the sleeping beauty into early labor. 

    Stanley, while sitting on the edge of the bed, undid the belt of his pants and removed it before unzipping the combat pants he wore when the whole incident unfolded. He stood on one foot to take them off, finessing it around his cast. 

    Now the omega had the alpha’s full, undivided attention. Stanley turned on his side to face Xeno in his bed again. It was like drinking a warm hot cocoa on a snowy day- the warmth he felt in his chest was undying and what he had longed for for so long.

    “Xeno,” Stanley said quietly, “Xe, I’m home.” 

    Xeno stirred like clotheslines in a breeze, so Stanley took that as his green light to wrap his arm around Xeno’s waist and gently press his hand to his mate’s stomach. It was tough despite how it was usually squishier, like his uterus was preparing for what was to come. Xeno’s snore hitched, and he stirred some more, rubbing his eye.

    “Hey, doll,” Stanley said with a smirk, planting a kiss on Xeno’s cheek, “can you wake up for me?”

    “Staaan…” Xeno groaned through snores, “Stan..?”

    “Xeno, babe, I’m here,” Stanley said, “we’re together now. Nothing’s gonna separate us again.”

    Stanley inched closer to his husband, kissing him closer to his lips and inching his hand down to his love handles and squeezing. 

    That’s when Xeno’s eyes shot open and he yelped, scooting back up against his pillows for a brief second, “Ah! Oh my heavens… Stan! It’s just you!” Xeno gasped, then realizing what was happening in that moment and Stanley touching him wasn’t just a dream he was having.

    “Hey, princess, your elegant knight has returned,” Stanley replied, winking, then patting the bed for Xeno to come back and lay with him, “was the sleep good?”

    Xeno looked dazed, confused, but also relieved. Stanley was sitting right in front of him and he couldn’t have been happier. But… just how did his alpha get to him? He had to solve the equation quickly… he must’ve been asleep for approximately 12 hours, then his husband woke him up early that morning… right? The omega remembered taking a phone call from his love at some point. His scent was different because of his confusion, pregnancy, oversleeping and more emotions.

     “It’s 3 PM, Stanley, isn’t it?” Xeno asked, “you let me sleep and force you to get a ride from the hospital?!”

    Stanley realized what was about to happen and sat up against the pillows beside Xeno, “hey, hey, it’s okay. Brody’s here, we’re fine. It’s good you got the sleep for the pup’s sake, right? You need your rest instead of all the coffee.”

    Xeno wanted to tear his hair out, pulling his knees to his chest. He was an emotional wreck after sleeping so long and not seeing his being a good omega to his alpha, his omegan side was really coming out now that he was growing a little life.

     “Stan!” Xeno cried, “just… just ask me, please! I need to be good to you. I’m such an inelegant mess and you’re supposed to make sure I don’t end up like this. I feel like a troglodyte simply rotting in my cave!”

    “Xe, hey, it’s alright,” Stanley replied, putting a hand on Xeno’s knee to comfort him, “it worked out, okay? I wanted you to sleep. You’ll always be a good omega and partner to me. Wouldn’t have married ya if you weren’t, right? You did the right thing by caring for our pup and yourself. I can handle my own, our pup can’t. That’s what my drill sergeant always said- put your damn kids first.”

    Xeno was about to have an absolute meltdown until Stanley really did comfort him, like petting the angry cat that was his omega side and relaxing the beast with his hand. He nodded, sniffling and wiping away a straggling tear.

    “I-if you say so,” Xeno replied, looking at his mate in the eyes, “I’m glad you’re home… don’t leave me again, imbecile.”

    Stanley chuckled, running a hand through his hair and then cupping Xeno’s cheek with it, “wasn’t planning on it… hey, wait. I’m home now. You wanna do it?”

     Xeno tilted his head, confused. He wasn’t himself. Being the smartest man in the world and all came with its hardships when he woke up from the world’s longest nap with heavy hormones.

    Then, it finally clicked.

    “St-Stan!” Xeno gasped, blushing, “isn’t Brody here? Have some class! I-I-“

    Stanley shrugged, “We can tell him to leave. He’ll understand.”

     “Stan!” Xeno gasped, “what’s gotten into you? Is that all you want? To have intercourse with me?”

      Stanley felt like he was being put on the spot in a way, he put his hand up in response, “Xe- obviously not. And, it’s not my fault you’re smoking hot, on top of all that, I missed ya, babe. I’m getting more withdrawals than just cigarettes. We haven’t done it in over a week.”

      Xeno blushed bashfully. He sighed, not really wanting to have sex at that moment, especially because of his husband’s laundry list of healing injuries. He scooted back down from the pillows so he was level with the taller alpha.

     “Stan… not right now, love, I…” Xeno sighed, “I don’t feel good. And you’re still healing…”

      Stanley nodded, “I’m not that fragile, Xe, but that’s fine. lay with me though. C’mere.”

     Xeno shook his head, “I’m going to say goodbye to Brody, Stan.”

     Stanley sighed when his mate got up. He smacked Xeno’s ass, earning a yelp from the omega. He made eye contact with the alpha and Stanley looked away quickly, whistling to himself like he didn’t just do what he did. Xeno was being a brat and he deserved it.

    Brody had gone home after Xeno said a quick greeting to him and ushered him out. The alpha for the message as his friends wanted to be alone and he was more than happy to oblige. Stanley earned the right to stay in bed with his omega for awhile and just be.

~

     Somehow, by some miracle, Xeno eventually succumbed to his subconscious and Stanley’s desires as they laid and took off his underwear to ride Stanley like he was made for it. Seeing the omega so lustful, sweaty, sultry and glowing of pregnancy made Stanley so damn horny that he came and knotted the already moaning mess of Xeno while he was balls deep quicker than he could hold out for.

     Xeno had his hands against Stanley’s chest, his back arched and ass down completely on his mate’s length, “Stan… look, Stanley…”

     The omega lifted his nightshirt to show the slight bump in his stomach to the alpha of his child. It drove Stanley wild, but not just the bump itself, more so Xeno’s growing chest and omegan hips. His alpha side was incredibly proud that he was finally able to give his omega what he wanted.

      “I’ll just get ya twins then, Xe! K-keep movin’ baby, oh fuck… fuck!” Stanley gasped when Xeno kept up his act as he was told. He’d be a good, obedient omega to his alpha so he’d feel less guilty for rebelling later if he so chooses too.  

     “My alpha… mmm… that’s it! Don’t say hi… t-to our baby yet!” Xeno cried as he felt how deep his husband was going. He was going to be sent over the edge as the room filled with the scent of pregnant omega and horny alpha. They could get drunk on it alone.

~

    With Stanley’s knot and arms around Xeno, he was back to sleep with his alpha in their respective spots in their bed. They were back together after being ripped apart for so long, the agony of waiting driving the alpha to near insanity and violence. He was like a protective dog, finally home alongside the one thing he loved so much and would protect with his life. Stanley was often referred to as ‘Xeno’s dog’, it was nothing new to him, yet still, the term got under his skin at times.

     The alpha and omega slept together for what seemed like hours, Stanley’s broken ankle propped on pillows. There were two hands, one from each, on Xeno’s stomach.  

    Stanley, or Xeno, for that matter- had no idea that those were the last days they could truly spend together having intercourse and snuggling almost however they wanted to. Gen had returned to his far away apartment of Tokyo for his gigs and Senku was back to his own apartment- roomed with Taiju and Yuzuriha for his studies. He was nearly done for the summer and would be coming home sooner than later. As for Gen, he’d be doing a few shows scattered through Japan, leaving him booked for several weeks. Xeno had no idea Senku was in his class for the fall, he didn’t have the chance to look at his computer. In fact, Stanley was the one who sent out an email to all of Xeno’s students informing them of their professor’s sudden absence. 

    Stanley and Xeno were more or less on their own through what was to come. The scientist omega got sick, really, really sick. Sick to the point where he couldn’t leave his bed and threw up in the mornings far too much. How were Stanley and Xeno supposed to care for each other in their current states? They had no choice but to drift in and out of sleep, wallowing in their own misery as they held each other and prayed things would be alright. That Stanley would heal up quickly, that the pup would be okay and Xeno would pull through, without the power of any medications for Xeno or cigarettes for Stanley. The alpha blew his last one the day Brody left him.

    Since the alpha’s return back home, he had to inform both their families of the pregnancy, tell them Xeno was approaching four weeks pregnant and get his omega to try and talk to his mom without crying, shoving Stanley away, or asking for something from him. The alpha’s body was broken and harder to move around.

    “Xe, your mom’s on the phone, doll,” Stanley whispered, “she wants to talk to you.”

    Stanley was sat at the foot of the bed presenting his phone to the omega. Xeno was curled up in the blankets, his pompadour having been completely messed up from laying down for so long. He was putting on a little bit of weight, making him insecure, and the nausea was almost unbearable at that point.

     “Mmm..” Xeno groaned, “Stan… please… some tea..?”

     Stanley sighed, nodding, “alright, baby, tea it is.”

     Stanley overheard the conversation Xeno was having with his mother through the kitchen. He could pretty much imagine what Mrs. Wingfield was saying to her son, gushing about the pup before Xeno told her just how bad of a condition he was in.

    “Y-yeah, mother, I… I’m five weeks… no, I feel terrible,” Xeno began. There was a pause, “Stan has. He’s hurt, though, and I… I can’t do anything… I’m throwing up, tired, my feet are swelling already, I’m…-“

    Xeno and Stanley were by no means men to ask for help from anyone . Stanley was a more than capable man to get the job done and step up to the plate for his husband. However, in that moment as he sat at the kitchen table waiting for the screech of the tea kettle, Stanley tried with all his might to shelf his pride away for the sake of his omega and unborn pup, to no avail. Xeno was in no condition to do anything around the house and had to stay in bed for a while. The pregnancy was at a high enough risk as it was. If his omega didn’t improve, Stanley would drive him to the hospital himself, broken right ankle and everything. He had to do it. 

     Stanley repeated to himself in his head that he had to ask for help, and yet… he couldn’t. He was feeling better than he did before, and the nearest family he had was back home in the states. He made a promise to Xeno that he’d always take care of him no matter how broken, beaten and battered he was, so he’d fulfill that promise until the day he dropped dead.

     Stanley had no means of getting to a store, either, for his cigarettes. He’d be suffering from withdrawal symptoms yet again sooner than later. He had nightmares, cold sweats, mood swings and much more from the withdrawals alone. His other situations piled on top of that certainly wouldn’t help him. He couldn’t do any housework or heavy lifting. The most the alpha could do was power through chores; cook, dishes and laundry.

Chapter Text

One week Later

~

     “Xe? Xeno, are you okay?” Stanley asked, the morning sun casting in through the blinds of their bedroom. The panic was somewhat setting in when he saw his mate in bed, pale, shaky and tears welling in his eyes. The omega was initially sleeping until his alpha called his name. The morning sunlight streaming in through the curtains illuminated Xeno’s already glowing face. It was like the glow had instantly faded, however, when Xeno put his hand between his legs and it re-emerged covered in his own blood. He must’ve felt it, and that was what woke him up.

    The omega screamed in horror, sitting up in bed and panicking, “STAN! Do something!” Xeno cried, “o-our pup!”

    Stanley was frozen in horror. He couldn’t stifle a reaction at first. His baby was dying right in front of him and for all he knew, he could lose Xeno, too. The shock then kicked the alpha into full gear.

    “Bathroom, Xe, I’ll call an ambulance!”

    Stanley rummaged through the pockets of his jeans on the floor for his phone, finding the piece of shit thing and dialing the number for an emergency. 

    Xeno obeyed his alpha and scurried into the bathroom, ripping off his shorts and underwear. He was bleeding profusely, blood rolling down his thighs between his legs. While on the phone, Stanley heard a crash in the bathroom. His own face went pale and he used what strength he had and got up, forgetting his crutches and limping to the bathroom. It was a sight he’d never forget… Xeno, laying on the floor, face up, sweaty and a pool of blood between his legs. 

~ 

    “HOLY SHIT!!” Stanley gasped, shooting up in bed, covered- no, drenched in sweat. It was a nightmare, thank god. Xeno didn’t lose the baby, he was curled up in the blankets right beside Stanley, facing him- until of course, his husband shouted, making Xeno shoot right up as well. He caught a glimpse of the clock. 5:03 AM.

    The alpha was sleeping only in a pair of basketball shorts for his comfort. Xeno was wearing an oversized t-shirt of Stanley’s and loose fitting underwear. He grabbed ahold of Stanley’s arm, scooting closer to him.

    “Stan!?” Xeno gasped, “Stanley!”

    Xeno had panic in his eyes at the sight of the clearly frazzled and lost for words Stanley. It took the alpha a moment to turn to his mate, eyes wider than saucers, “Xeno… y-you’re still pregnant, r-right? Tell me… you didn’t lose the pup.”

     Stanley had a death grip on the smaller Xeno’s shoulders to the point that pain was emulating into his body from the fingertips of his alpha. Stanley’s emotions and pheromones were through the roof from his distress.

    The realization of what Stanley likely dreamt of hit the omega like a ton of bricks, “n-no, Stan. The pup’s fine. I-I’ve been better, but.. you already knew that. The cigarette withdrawals and stress are getting to you..”

    “Thank god!” Stanley exhaled, relieved beyond belief, throwing his arms around his mate and pulling him against his chest. He kissed the top of Xeno’s head several times, then snatching a kiss from his lips, “I had a nightmare, I’m sorry, Xe… I’m worried sick. My mind is all over the damn place. I need more smokes and you need a ride to your appointments because I’m a dumb fucking- ugh! Damn it all!”

    “Stan… don’t you see?” Xeno asked, his face soft and sweet as he stroked the top of Stanley’s head, running his fingers through his hair to calm his angry, pheromone secreting alpha and get him on his leash again. The pregnancy glow made the omega look beautiful, even through the thick of the illness and lethargy. Xeno was like a beautiful songbird, able to string the guitar of Stanley’s cold heart that was normally shut out for everyone. 

     “We need to ask for help. It’s the elegantly logical thing to do,” Xeno finished, “I know, under any other circumstance… we’d pull through, my love, but we cannot do this alone. Not until you’re healed.”

     “Xe- no. We can pull through. It's just…” Stanley said, straining and desperate as he held Xeno. To the soldier, that was the most graphic, horrific nightmare the alpha had in all his 31 years of being. Worse than anything he’d seen on the battlefield for sure!

     “You alphas… always so challenging…” Xeno sighed, stroking Stanley’s hair, “nevertheless, I’d suggest giving Senku a call. He has my utmost trust.”

     Xeno’s hormones were on their side for that precious moment in time.

     Stanley’s head shot right up to meet Xeno’s eyes, startling the omega with how serious and powerful his husband looked. The room was quickly filled with the scent of evergreen and trees from Stanley’s prideful alpha side.

     “No fucking way! He’s like a son to us, he shouldn’t be taking care of us because I’ve been a sack of shit! I’m the reason we’re here in the first place!”

      Xeno’s eyes went wide. What was Stanley on about? It had to have been the alpha side and withdrawal talking beyond his overwhelming and obvious feelings of guilt. His husband was never this emotional. Perhaps it had to do with Stanley’s father…

Stanley’s childhood 

      Stanley Snyder more or less never spoke of his father. The man didn’t exist to him, for good reason. 

     When Stanley was a baby, he was welcomed into a family with a big sister, Phoebe, who was 4 by the time he was born. Stanley was born healthy but when he wasn’t walking at 7 months like his strict army father wanted, he tried to smother infant Stanley with a pillow. If his son didn't grow up to be a strong, capable, military alpha, he’d kill his child himself. Stanley’s father viciously drank like a fish, beat Stanley and Phoebe’s mother black and blue (who was too weak to run away at the time), and eventually hit his two kids. When Stanley was big enough, he took beatings for his sister because he was taught to never hit girls. 

    Stanley met Xeno when they were 4. Their mothers became friends when they met at a book club and Mrs. Wingfield would beg Mrs. Snyder to run, take her children and run as fast as she could. Mrs. Snyder confided in Xeno’s mother more often than not. She wished away the young Stanley and Phoebe to stay with their friends more than they lived in their own home. Stanley would stay at Xeno’s house with his family for days on end like he was another child, aside from Xeno and his much older sister.

     When Stanley was 9, his mother had another baby, his little sister. That was strike one to the young Stanley, tying him to his father by another sibling irked him even as a child. It wasn’t that he didn’t love his baby sister, he just wished she had a different father. He longed for things to be better. It was why Xeno was his sunshine through his usual dark and rainy days.

     Phoebe Snyder was approaching her teen years, developing into an omega and needed more support than what she was getting, which only ended up strengthening her bond with Stanley and even Xeno. Xeno and his mom let Phoebe come over at times and stay at his house when their father was on a violent rampage. Little Xeno knew exactly what was going on- he was always brighter than most kids. What was an enigma to him was how Stanley kept his cool around him. Xeno had no idea that the only reason Stanley was ever sane around him was because his best friend was hopelessly in love with him.

     Stanley was so in love with Xeno, in fact, that he sometimes would pretend to be upset to sleep beside his friend at night. He never abused that privilege, of course- he respected Xeno and his developing omegan body- but he also wanted attention here and there.

   That cold December night, however, was what changed Stanley Snyder forever. The night his baby sister, Maryanna, came home from the hospital with his mother. Stanley’s father snapped and snatched the baby from her mother, his wife , and brought her to the bathroom to attempt to strangle her. The combined efforts of Stanley, 9, and Phoebe, 13, saved their sister’s life as they tried with every bone in their little bodies to fight back against their father. Their mother was still weak after giving birth making her vulnerable for attack, so Stanley’s father switched to beating her after the newborn was safe with Phoebe.

    Stanley was the one who took out his own dad by a kick to the crotch and his face. He was taught where to hit by his friends in school (Stan hung out with a bad crowd back in the day), which ended up saving his life. The little boy grabbed nothing but a warm blanket and Phoebe’s hand that fateful night before taking off into the cold December night.

     A next door neighbor stopped the children from going to Xeno’s house just a block away. They urgently took the kids into their home and called the police. The baby was on the verge of hypothermia.

    Swarms of police cars surrounded the Snyder household and arrested the incapacitated Mr. Snyder. The mother was taken to hospital, mentally evaluated and given her kids back if she was given therapy. 

    Phoebe and Stanley had an alliance made that day as kids that they’d never leave their little sister behind. Their father got 20 years of prison time for abuse and attempted child murder, their mother was in therapy and with some help from family, raised her kids while she attempted to heal from her demons.

    Things continued on for Stanley and his sisters.

     Stanley’s smoking addiction began from the ripe age of 15 when he was shown by a classmate how to relieve stress easily. Being a teenage boy with a boatload of trauma, cigarettes were a perfect stress relief option for him.

      When Xeno began presenting as an omega, it instantly made Stanley’s feelings for him perpetuate down to the instinctual level and it drove the teenage boy to near insanity behind closed doors. Xeno was shy at first, scared to be a male omega. they weren’t as common as female omegas and were often at a higher risk for abuse and sexual assault. Nothing stopped the young alpha- he’d jerk off to Xeno more than what could be waterboarded out of him, so when the time came for him to confess how he felt, Xeno’s (albeit hesitant) reciprocation was his reason to keep going. If Xeno had rejected him, Stanley would’ve been smoking more than just cigarettes.

    Stanley was a reckless teenager. He slept with Annalise, the cheerleader from high school, slept with one of his football teammates (that he wouldn’t ever reveal the identity of to Xeno or Brody), did drugs at parties, and took up hitman jobs in his later teenage years for god knows who because of his natural talent with firearms. It started with nerf guns until the young 12 year old Stanley graduated to a rail gun made just for him by Xeno. Then, he sniped his first victim at 17 for a boatload of money. 

    Stanley only came to his senses when Xeno intervened, that same day, he confessed that he was in love with Xeno.

    When Stanley and Xeno finally started dating at that same age of 17, Phoebe had given her brother nothing but unconditional love and support. Maryanna was still young and didn’t understand Stanley’s puberty journey, alpha development or feelings for his best friend- a guy who’d been like another brother to her. Still, Xeno accepted Stanley’s sisters as family. 

      Stanley’s relationship with his mother was okay. As the alpha himself put it- ‘could be better, she didn’t care, so why should I?’ . He had to find it within his heart to forgive her as he got older- understanding she was a human being herself and a victim of abuse just like her kids were. He loved his youngest sister- he always would- but apart of Stanley would always be scornful for his mother’s choice of having another baby with a monster. 

    Stanley began to sleep with Xeno at 18, taking his virginity in the bed he slept in since he was a little boy, took his innocence in more ways than one, his heart, and now gave him his first child. 

     What broke Xeno was Stanley’s choice to become a marine at 17, when they first got together. Xeno was furious, hurt, betrayed and worried for the safety of his new boyfriend, soulmate and best friend. They saved each other- it wasn’t just on Stanley’s end that needed the help. Xeno’s father being so busy with work (Xeno truly believed he was involved in mafia business), made him more or less absent to Xeno’s family. All Xeno had was his big sister, Estelle, who was 9 years his senior, his mother, and his nanny. 

     Xeno almost broke up with Stanley on the spot after only being official for a few months upon hearing the news of his decision for the marines. What made the young omega stay? Xeno often wondered that himself. That was how he knew he was in love with his best friend, too. He could’ve walked away as easily as Stanley’s ex flings. What they had was real . It was built off years of love, trust, and friendship, that was what made Xeno sleep with Stanley and let him mate him at 19.

     Why did Stanley choose to become a marine? To spite his father, and be able to protect his family, boyfriend and friends from anything that would ever try to harm them. Nobody was taking his precious omega, sisters, mother or friends from him after he almost lost them all in more ways than one. 

    Phoebe Snyder married her alpha engineer husband at 23, and then had two pups of her own- a son, and daughter, that adored Stanley and Xeno. When the two were back home in the states, Stanley and Xeno would babysit them together when Phoebe needed it.

     Stanley proposed to Xeno when the two were 25, and then married at 26. They were dating for several years and made sure to wait to tie the knot when the couple had enough savings to lean back on.

    So there he was, 31 and finally having his first baby with Xeno. Stanley was a fortunate man to have Xeno Wingfield in his life. He’d be a junkie rotting away and fucking hookers left and right after being kicked out of the marines if he hadn’t- he was sure of it. The haunting memories of his childhood washed over him within seconds (despite the word count) of being asked that question. Instead, he got married to Xeno and had a beautiful little family that would eventually grow.

End Stanley’s past Flashback

Chapter Text

    “Stan?” Xeno asked, snapping the alpha out of his haze, “please, I know you feel immense guilt… we must shelve that for the sake of our pup, alright?”

     “I know that, Xeno! Don’t bring my piece of shit father into this to prove your point and certainly don’t bring Senku, the damn kid into this like I need someone to stay here and babysit us. I just need help here and there with driving and heavy lifting. That’s it. I can do the rest,” Stanley insisted, “and yeah, I fucking do feel guilty for leaving on duty and getting myself hurt. You got me. Satisfied?”

    Stanley was starting to get pissed off and Xeno was doing the right thing in looking out for the pup. It was hurting the alpha more than usual because he loved Xeno so damn much and that was both his best attribute and also what led to him getting hurt in the first place. If he just hadn’t left his mate that day at the airport, none of what he said would’ve happened. Xeno was starting to get on the defensive as his omegan hormones were beginning to overpower those of Stanley’s intense alpha pheromones.

     “Stanley! That man is not what this is about, for Schroeder’s sake, alpha, get a hold of yourself! You’re emotional because you know you hurt me and you need cigarettes!” Xeno bit back. It was only logical to go straight to the source of what he believed was the problem, despite his bubbling and curdling emotions begging to come up.

      The omega sat farther upright and created distance between himself and his husband, “I forgive you, Stan. We both thought I wasn’t able to conceive and we ended up here, I’m pregnant , we did it. The challenging task of getting you home is complete. We just need help because of our circumstances and by no means does that make you a bad man for getting hurt or asking Senku to help us! We couldn’t have predicted any one of these events from happening. For the record, it’s not babysitting. You’re so hard headed, Stan. One of these days, you’ll fall and hurt yourself even more, landing you a good two more weeks in the hospital just because you… you think you’re invincible. You’re my most elegant knight. Even then, an injured knight needs his break, before he gets himself killed on the front lines!”

     Stanley was livid and even he didn’t entirely know why- it was likely due to the guilt of them ending up in this situation to begin with. He chose to leave on duty- he chose to fight on the front lines and got himself hurt because he daydreamed about Xeno.

     Stanley leaned into Xeno like an anaconda watching his prey, “I’m not some crippled knight, Xeno, I’ll be fine when all I’ve been doing is making us food and taking a shit. Not fucking swinging a sword and riding a horse into the sunset over a moat to come and save you yet again!”

      “Stanley, are you fucking serious?!” Xeno blurted out, “ you were the one who asked me to have sex with you after you just walked through the door! You… you! Don’t insult me!”

     Xeno almost never cussed, so when he did, it was for a damn good reason. He got closer to his husband’s face, anger in his cute eyes and plastered over his face. 

     When Stanley’s cold, rage-filled side combined with Xeno’s emotional omegan pregnancy hormones, things were only going to get more and more heated, intense and emotional.

     Stanley and Xeno’s long running gag of the knight and princess was embedded into their relationship. Xeno was pushing the buttons of his alpha even more by trying to talk sense into him. If anything, nothing Xeno could’ve said or done would truly appease Stanley in that current state he was in. Xeno was losing his own cool, making the brewing argument even uglier.

     “Xeno. I’m not like my father. I can’t be like him. I promised you, I’d come home safe, and I didn’t . Yeah. I’m about as fucking guilty, drugged and horny as the head of the goddamn playboy mansion and it does tear me apart! I’m telling you now, we are not asking for Senku to come and do shit for us. I can handle it. I’m stronger than I’ve ever been,” Stanley insisted, “I’ll even go get my smokes now. I'm going to get my keys.”

     “STANLEY SNYDER! YOU ASSHOLE, KNOCK IT OFF!!”

     Xeno was quicker and despite how shitty he felt, he was probably the one with the upper hand compared to his husband. He scrambled just to stand in front of the mighty Stanley, blocking the doorway. As quick as the alpha was at grabbing his crutches and standing, Xeno was just faster. The scent of fast moving strong alpha pheromones were making Xeno feel like he was drunk. It made his hands and legs shaky, his heart raced as he cursed his body for producing slick. 

    “Outta my way, princess ,” Stanley snarled, “I’ll be back in five minutes. You want a fucking chill pill or a butler?”

     Stanley was in his mode of determination and hustling. He was blatantly patronizing Xeno for all the shit he spat at him.

    “No, Stan! Enough is enough. Lay back down and I will go get those rotten cigarettes you love to poison yourself with,” Xeno bit back, his face reddening from Stanley’s insults to him, “ now ! So help me god I… I-!”

    Stanley scowled, “if you’d been through half the shit I did, you’d understand. I. Can. Do. This.”

    Xeno wasn’t budging, so Stanley put his crutches aside and picked up his mate, bridal style, like he weighed nothing. Despite Xeno’s kicking and thrashing, Stanley effortlessly dropped the omega onto the bed. Xeno bounced onto his stomach, the omega squirming and getting back up onto his feet, standing on the bed with the fury of an angry chihuahua. He desperately hugged his belly to protect their pup, praying it was okay.

    “STANLEY!” Xeno shouted, stifling back his tears to match his alpha’s strength, “if you take those keys and leave, you are not coming back, understand?! you… you…! Hard headed and stubborn ASSHOLE! You’ll end up like your father if you continue to act like a… an idiot ! Stop, and come back! STANLEY!”

     Stanley spun around and saw the omega standing in the doorway of their bedroom, eyes tearing up and legs shaky. Xeno knew all too well that fighting a guilty, emotional and withdrawn on cigarettes alpha determined to get a task done was futile at best, but no matter what, he would continue to try. 

     “Oh-ho, alright. We’re going there? First off, stop fuckin’ talking to me like that, babe !”

     “Like what? Oh, the way you’ve been speaking to me this whole time ?!” Xeno shouted back, “like I’m some annoying inconvenient thing in your way and not your pregnant omega?!”

    “You know damn well that’s not how it is. You’re acting like that yourself, doctor!” Stanley responded, the red going to his cheeks from anger. Fighting with the missus wasn’t exactly on his agenda for the day.

    “Stanley Snyder, you are so unbelievably hard headed when you’re angry that you could smash a thousand units of godforsaken tungsten! Do not bring this on me when I am sick, pregnant and weak, all because of your father!” Xeno shouted, “ you got us both into this mess! You shouldn’t have left me!”

    Xeno teared up as he began to realize what he said was probably far worse than anything else he could’ve gotten out. Damn him… he slipped up, badly. He was too emotional, sick, and weak to argue with his husband, his best friend, his elegant knight…

    “Fuck you, Xeno,” Stanley said, like he had spat the deadliest venom after the omega cut him deep. The alpha went over to the counter, holding onto it and grabbing his keys from the hook by the door. He grunted and winced in pain, grabbing his shoes, then limping outside with his casted foot and slamming the door behind him with all the force an injured, powerful knight could muster. 

     Xeno followed his husband in suit, not giving up that easily. He shut the door behind him and charged down their driveway where Stanley’s truck awaited the anger and hurt filled alpha.

     Xeno wanted the last words of truth if Stanley was really going to be the world’s biggest asshole and kick him to the curb when he was the one pregnant with their pup. Stanley had every right to be upset, of course, and Xeno had every right to give him a piece of his mind.

    “STANLEY!” Xeno shouted, grabbing the waistband of Stanley’s pants which made his husband spin right around and get close to Xeno. For one of the select few times ever, Xeno felt genuine fear of Stanley. Stan would never hurt his omega in a million years but if looks could kill, Xeno and the baby would be killed tenfold.

    “ What ?” Stanley said through gritted teeth.

    “I-I realized what I said was horrible, Stan, I’m sorry. I’m just… I’m going through alot, just like you are after you got hurt, and… I’m sorry, alpha,” Xeno said, finally giving into his mood swings and inner omegan side that just wanted to please his mate and make him happy.

    “Yeah, yeah. You want to get me to come back, now? After saying that shit? I know your instincts, Xe, don’t fucking mess with me,” Stanley replied, limping over to the driver’s side door without his crutches and more willpower than a hurricane trying to knock over debris. Stanley’s emotions were quite similar to that of a hurricane; the guilt, shame, anger, and hurt he was feeling were all too abundant and scary to the usually put together marine.

     “Stanley, seriously?!” Xeno cried, “don’t do this! Don’t leave me and your child here alone for your shitty lung carcinogens!”

     “God, Xeno. I’m not fucking driving my truck to hungry sharks or to a hooker! I’m just going to run an errand and you’ve made a huge deal out of it!” Stanley shouted, “relax, and for once in your fuckin’ life, stop thinking so much before something happens to the pup for real!”

     Stanley’s reflexes could’ve never predicted what Xeno was about to do to him. The omega’s open palm connected with Stanley’s cheek, slapping the alpha straight across the face as he cried. He almost expected a hit back, and instead, all he got was the look of anger from his mate and not another word. The faint red mark on Stanley’s cheek didn’t fade when he climbed into his truck, Xeno attempting to grab his knee, fully aware he’d probably regret it later. Stanley’s deal was sealed, he was out of there no matter how much his omega fought him.

     The alpha pushed Xeno off his leg, the scientist falling onto his ass in the driveway. It earned a peer from Stanley out the window and a look of intense hurt, worry and sadness painted his face by tears shining in the morning sun like stars in a sky. He didn’t want to do that to Xeno, just like Xeno didn’t want to slap his husband who was going off the wire. 

     Stanley locked the doors and revved up his truck, whipping it in reverse to leave the driveway whilst going questionably over the speed limit- especially considering his condition. He left Xeno to his own devices, the omega still sitting in the driveway watching as Stanley left him with a look of disbelief, shock, and hurt plastered on his face. No amount of tears could make up for the pain of his husband leaving him. It was just like the day Stan got on that train and left him to the marines. That day was still their biggest argument to date, that early morning taking the cake as the second biggest argument between the mates of over a decade.

     Xeno could hardly get back up on his feet. His body felt like a fragile flower amidst a rainstorm that had a caliber he had never seen nor felt before. He had been pregnant for well over a month and could function at a fraction of what he used to. He never felt alone anymore, at the very least.

    To be a brave omega was difficult in times where the alpha left them all alone while they were both weak. Xeno was sicker than a dog by the time he made it to the toilet, puking what he had for dinner and then some. Standing up made his knees feel like they’d give out. His tears were clouding his vision at an almost constant rate, making it all the more dangerous for him to navigate his small home with Stanley. 

    Xeno wasn’t sure in that moment if he’d be able to get up without falling over. He had to protect the pup, wiping what was left of what came out of his mouth with the end of his (actually Stanley’s) shirt and then grounding his hand to the top of the toilet. The world was dizzy around him when he began to straighten his knees and stand.

    Then, a sharp pain ran up through his neck, right where his claim mark was. He put his hand over the painful area and let out a yelp, much to his dismay and many attempts to hush himself and just brave it out. 

    “Ngh- Stan! Oh my… Stanley…” Xeno cried in pain, his voice straining from the pain, “you… you bastard !”

     Waiting for his husband’s inevitable return or phone call from the police would be coming in no time to the rest of the world. But to Xeno, five minutes felt like ages with his emotions on full blast.

Chapter Text

     The warmth of his bed was all that omega needed to relax most of his tensed muscles. The ache in his heart and pit in his stomach stayed, following him like a shadow after his husband left him in a fit of rage. 

     Xeno finally had a chance to cry without anyone judging him. The pup was too tiny to know what was going on with its parents. Even then, the stress from its mother could easily affect the development down the road- that thought always lingered in the back of Xeno’s mind and made him hyper focus on his diet and routine. He couldn’t simply rot in his bed for nine months. He had to exercise his brain once again doing what he loved. Push through the sickness, let his thoughts of chemical equations, rockets and outer space take over. 

    Like the planets in the solar system had all aligned, Xeno got up from bed. The world surrounding him was almost discolored and too much for his eyes to handle with how tired he and how heavy his eyes always were. 

    The scientist got into his zone, throwing on a simple polo he always had laying around his dresser, and sliding on some slacks from a different drawer of the dresser. His fancier shirts, jackets and pants were in the closet he shared with his husband… Stanley . Oh, Stanley.

     Xeno huffed to himself upon catching a glance at their closet, snatching his lab coat from his side and throwing it elegantly over his shoulders and sliding both arms in. 

     The alpha and omega shared almost every space together aside from Xeno’s small lab in the living room threshold with the kitchen, the desk against the wall. The desk that fit his computer, tools, test tubes and spare parts for a small rocket or other projects. 

    Xeno then went to the full sized mirror on the bathroom door from inside. He was careful with his steps, trying not to trip over the threshold and lose his miracle pup in one fatal fall.

    The omega lifted his shirt, standing so his stomach could be seen protruding outwards in the mirror. His bump was so, so small, but he saw it. He could feel the toughness where his uterus was. Even if he hated Stanley’s damn guts in that moment, he had to thank his alpha mate for giving him this miracle . At 6 weeks, he could see the belly, which only made him more worried for what was to come. Pregnant male omegas were some of the biggest risk populations in terms of crimes against them. Stanley, his knight, could protect him, right? Even if they didn’t make up, he’d stick by Xeno and his pup.

    Xeno pulled his shirt back over his stomach and still saw the bump. He turned on his heel to catch a glimpse of other angles of himself, seeing his chest was getting bigger as well. His body was going to resemble an omega female’s body sooner than later, then once the pup hit a year old, he’d be closer to his old self before he got into this mess.

   Xeno then left his bathroom, closing the door behind him and sighing. He couldn’t stop thinking of Stanley and his yelling, how he slapped him and the look on Stanley’s face of pure shock after Xeno’s hand made contact with his face.

    The scientist plopped down on his desk chair in the living room, sighing heavily- breathing relief in and out of his lungs. He didn’t have to move from that seat any longer. He could stay up as late as he wanted (his limit was 3 AM, for the baby’s sake), his pup could handle it- it was Stanley’s child, after all.

    Xeno immediately clicked, like chlorine when met with its final valence electron. His desk was the electron this little fierce omega needed to become a noble powerhouse gas and continue onward. Xeno logged into his desktop and pulled up his email to check in on his students. Throughout his morning sickness, he made an effort to check in on his students after assigning work and even gave extra help to those who needed it. He wasn’t sure how much longer he’d be able to keep going- the excessive book work simply wasn’t fair to college kids when he could give virtual lessons. Over the last couple months, Xeno couldn’t do nearly as many, his last being a week and a half ago. 

    That day, he’d make it his mission to pre-record several lessons for his students to prevent any backflow of work for himself if he was to get sicker. He had all day until 3 in the morning hit to care for himself, his pup, and his students. Stanley popping up in his thoughts made the esger scientist angry after what he did.

     Xeno sent out an email to his students promptly, giving them a much needed update to his whereabouts and why they had done book work instead of getting a virtual lesson from their professor to end the semester. 

    Xeno had given his husband permission to send out an email the previous week regarding his sickness… how he wished Stanley would stop popping into his memory. The undeniable and logical fact of the matter was that Stanley was a part of Xeno’s life that he’d never truly let go, especially with his pup growing in his womb.

     Tears held Xeno at gunpoint, begging to form and roll down his cheeks again after all the sobbing he did before. He knew damn well he deserved a break from all the crying within the past couple months. 

     The omega typed his email to his students regarding the pregnancy and kept it as elegant as possible. Most of his students probably had no clue he was an omegan male, let alone mated and pregnant.

     Kindest regards,

  Good morning to you all. I am writing as I have left you all in unfortunate circumstances with bookwork and timely lectures on our current subject of chemistry and molecular calculations. I will be available for help to anyone who may need it. I am available for contact via email in the evenings. Prerecordings of our lessons will start today and will be going out weekly to prevent any further confusion on the textbook.

  I appreciate every one of you being patient with me, as I am pregnant with my first child. Please anticipate an eventual substitute teacher come closer to the time that I am expected to give birth, although I will have prepared pre-recorded lessons for the winter then. Regarding class work, lectures, or tutoring, please let me know of any potential questions.

        Sincerely, 

            Dr. Xeno H. Wingfield-Snyder

              Professor of astrophysics and chemistry 

    Xeno’s elegantly written email was truly his bread and butter. He could smooth talk anyone he wanted to at that college, really, especially the alpha supervisor who probably had a thing for him. Stanley’s email from the previous week to the whole class garnered a couple responses in the thread, his email being much different compared to Xeno’s. It almost… comforted the omega seeing Stanley and reading the email in his voice- wait, damn it ! He’s supposed to be mad at his husband!

     Good afternoon;

    I hope this email finds you all well. I am the husband of your Professor Wingfield and writing  to inform you all that he is still currently sick. Unfortunately, I cannot take his place, as I have little knowledge on this subject matter

  In my experience, I would stick to what was taught in previous lessons and attempt to expand upon that until he is well enough to return. Dr. Wingfield and I are expecting a baby and it is what is making him sick. We appreciate your patience and I will keep you all updated if his condition does not improve.

            Sincerely, 

           Stanley Snyder-Wingfield

    Of course, Stanley tried to play the hero and almost made Xeno look completely unprofessional. It wasn’t meant out of malice, it was Stanley just… being his unintentionally dorky self, and looking out for his mate that he was incredibly protective over. He was a military man who hardly dipped the tip of his finger into the realm of schooling past what he needed to do for high school and then sniper work. 

     Xeno felt his heart going soft, longing for his husband instead of being mad at him while he worked tirelessly. Then he’d go back to anger like the mood swings were a roll of the dice every half hour that drove by. The omega felt like he was going insane over what he was feeling… he wanted to slap his husband again and also make out with him. Xeno drowned himself in more work to a stupor in an attempt to silence any and all thoughts about his husband.

     “Stan…” Xeno grumbled to himself. For the love of all things holy and elegantly scientific… this omega needed a cup of coffee. Badly . The omega swore to himself that he was done with coffee for the pup’s sake, he couldn’t afford to lose the only chance he’d have to give birth. He was 31, so he was losing time before he even found out the news. 

    Xeno rested his chin in the palm of his hand, tapping his temple with his index finger as he scrolled through the submitted schoolwork of his students. He would occasionally glance at the clock on the bottom right hand side of his desktop, the clock pushing 6:45 in the morning. He usually was awake at this time of day anyways. Without his coffee and with the crying he did earlier, it was like an uphill battle against the sleeping beauty within him. 

    Xeno graded three assignments, yawning several times as he did so. Another assignment done, twice as many yawns. The world around the doctor was going dark, his emotions taking over him as tears pricked in his eyes…the student who reminded him of Stanley (because of her smoking habits and cold nature) was next up for the grading. The omega felt bad for what he said. The final ingredient in the homemade sleep potion for Xeno was finally put in and he was asleep at his desk in no time, the pen still in his hand. The lack of coffee, crying, and the hormones truly did a number on the now sleeping omega. He needed the rest for the pup to grow and eventually start moving around.

Chapter Text

The backroads of Japan were nothing short of beautiful and almost therapeutic to a certain emotional marksman of an alpha.

    Stanley was driving his truck down a road he wasn’t familiar with, going in the direction that the sun was rising from. The sheer beauty of daylight hugging him like a warm blanket didn’t make up for the emotional pain he felt, the weight of guilt on his shoulders being a stormy day to the pink, blue and purple of the early morning sky.

    It was Xeno. Always and forever, his omega wife, who drove him crazy in the best way possible. Stanley was so smitten for Xeno even as an “old man” himself (Senku called him old as soon as he hit 30, and Senku also got a different kind of hit). The messy argument between himself and Xeno was second to that of the fight they had when Stanley, then 17, informed Xeno that he’d be going off to the marines after high school to follow in the Snyder family’s footsteps. His father, grandfather, and even great-grandfather were all marines as young men. Stanley initially didn’t want to become a marine to spite his father. However, his plans were flipped on the tops of their heads when he couldn’t escape his emotions as a teenager. His stupidity and impulsivity would’ve killed him had he not met Xeno when he did as a boy. He was eternally grateful to Xeno for letting him put a ring on his finger and get him pregnant after years of careless and fruitless efforts.

     Stanley’s head always dwelled on Xeno. It was the reason he was in a cast, with a healing wound of dissolved stitches in his belly. He saw Xeno’s face when he shouldn’t have. His smitten nature for his omega was his own downfall, yet it also empowered him. He wasn’t even fully paying attention as the tears rolled down his cheeks like a broken pipe in an already damaged network. 

    That’s when it hit Stanley- Xeno was right. He was like an injured stallion, proud and with dignity to lose. He was a total dick and talked to Xeno like he wasn’t carrying his child. Sure, Xeno bit back with teeth as sharp as a lion (the animal Gen often compared his scary Tsukasa friend to), but he had every right to.

    The alpha let out a sob. He was angry at himself- at what Xeno said, and how he got himself hurt. The entire situation in Stanley’s elegant knight mind was his own fault.

   He left his newly pregnant omega for the military. 

     He lost his focus and got stabbed.

       He fell and broke his ankle.

          He tried to do more than he should’ve, instead of asking for help to control what he could about the situation.

    By the gods, Stanley needed a smoke so damn bad. He swerved his truck almost entirely off the road just trying to reach over to the passenger seat and grab the pack of cigarettes he had gone and purchased. While Stanley was traversing the store, the alpha was getting weird looks from the omega at the register due to his blatant rebellion of not using crutches and limping around the store.

     Stanley kept one hand on the steering wheel, practically shoving his cigarette in his lips and with his shaky hand from the rush of hormones and emotions, flicked his lighter on after several failed attempts. His tears dropped down his chin onto the gearshift and into the cup holders. 

    The alpha took a huge drag of his cigarette. The cigarette may as well have blocked every channel in his muscles, making his entire body relax at a rapid systemic pace. His body could’ve been as frozen as the Statue of Liberty and his brain would still be running as much as Xeno’s when he sat at his desk for hours.

     “Fuck!” Stanley shouted, slamming his hand on the steering wheel and covering his eyes with another. He pulled over to just… sob. Let open the floodgates in his eyes and allow his tears to drip down his once beautifully contoured and makeup covered cheeks. The cigarette was dangling between Stanley’s fingers as his head was over his steering wheel, resting on his forearm. Sobbing for twenty minutes straight in his truck was not on Stanley’s bingo card for that week unfortunately. Life threw him yet another curveball after finding out that his omega, whom they both thought was nearly infertile, fell pregnant 6 weeks ago.

     “Xeno… Xeno..” Stanley cried, “goddamnit, you bitch… I love you!”

     Stanley was shouting at nobody except himself in the small mirror. He was a mess- mascara dripping down his cheeks, smeared around his eyes. His pale nude colored lipstick coated his cigarette. He looked like a prom queen who cried after coming home from the big event, except he was the one who crashed the party- and he broke Xeno’s heart. Stanley, like the child he once was, felt broken.

    Stanley took another drag of his cigarette and left it between his lips so he could use his phone. He was never a phone kind of guy by any means- the sniper only used it when it was necessary. No social media or anything, just a Facebook that he hardly used so he could stay in touch with his extended family and mother. The Snyder and Wingfield extended and distant family only found out of the pup’s existence because Stanley’s mother posted about him with Xeno’s small baby bump in a picture with Stanley that they took in their kitchen, per her request. 

    The alpha regretted what he said to Xeno. The silver lining that Stanley was grateful for was that he didn’t actually call Xeno a bitch to his face. Even in a cloudy mist of anger and frustration, Stanley knew better than to call a pregnant omega something like that. Especially his pregnant omega.

     That was when Stanley had an idea. A way to curb his sadness and help his mess of emotions. Someone who knew him almost as well as Xeno did. 

     Stanley opened his contacts on his phone and clicked on the one with the name of “Phoebe Snyder”, the phone playing that all too familiar tone of a FaceTime call.

    After three rings, Phoebe picked up her phone which crushed any worry Stanley had that his sister wouldn’t answer him because of how busy she was with her two pups.

     Phoebe looked like she was on her front porch. Her kids must’ve been getting ready for school while their dad got ready for work. Phoebe, being an omega herself, resonated alot with Xeno even when they were both young. She understood the part of him and what he was going through in that moment better than what Stanley could comprehend, so getting her opinion on that alone would give the anxious, hurting alpha some much needed closure. 

   “Stanley!” Phoebe exclaimed in a tone that went from happy to see her brother that was having a baby, to worried and confused why Stanley was crying so much. For a military man who had tons of pride and dignity to keep up, Stanley falling apart in front of his big sister was something of the far away past.

    “Hey,” Stanley replied, wiping his tears and smudging his mascara down his face, “I.. I got in a fight… w-with the missus. Phoebe, I… I can’t live with myself.”

    Phoebe’s look softened with empathy for her younger brother. Even if they made it out of their father’s clutches alive, she’d always be Stanley’s guide and protective big sister like he protected her that fateful day their father was arrested.

    “Well, Stan, I’m gonna admit that I’m glad it was a fight and not you callin’ me to tell me Xeno lost the baby,” Phoebe said with a small smile, “do you want to talk about it? I’ve got a half hour while the kids get ready for school. They just told me yesterday how they miss uncle Stan and aunt Xeno!”

     Stanley couldn’t help the smile as Phoebe mentioned his little niece and nephew. They were 5 and 8 respectively, still very young kids who would soon have a cousin of their own.

    “D-did you break the news to ‘em yet, Phoebe? About m-my kid, I mean,” Stanley sniffled, an occasional hiccup acting like a bump in the road of his sentences.

    “Not yet. I’m waiting for the perfect moment. While I got ya here, we can!” Phoebe said, “will that help you feel better, Stan? Let’s talk, first, before all else.”

     Stanley nodded. He puffed out more smoke from his cigarette and leaned back in his seat, undoing his seatbelt and loosening the collar of his t-shirt he lazily threw on from his backseat while in the gas station parking lot.

   “Xe… was talkin’ about asking goddamned Senku for help… of all p-people to babysit me!? Talk about ripping away any d-dignity I once had. I-I feel so goddamn guilty, Phoebe, I-I left to the base.. the week a-after my rut and Xeno’s heat synced t-together, I had no clue.. I had no idea.. Th-that he… that he was-“

    Stanley bursted into more tears. He tried to pacify himself by taking a drag of his cigarette to calm his nerves. Phoebe's family, his brother-in-law, niece and nephew could easily hear him break down and unknowingly stomp on Stanley’s dignity that was shriveling up and dying as he spoke by asking him if he was okay.

    “Stan, shhh. It’s okay, I’m here,” Phoebe consoled her little brother, like he was crying in her arms as kids again after their father put his hands on them. 

    “Stan. Relax, oh, Stanley-“

    Phoebe hadn’t seen Stanley cry that much since he was as young as 7 years old. She felt terrible that she wasn’t over in Japan with him to give him the biggest and best sister hug possible.

    “S-sorry,” Stanley managed to muster out, “I-I try… not t-to.. to d-do this.”

    “Do what? Cry ?” Phoebe asked, “Stanley, I taught you better than that.”

    Phoebe’s inner cold hearted and strict Snyder was coming out. She knew how to control her stricter, mother hen side. Stanley was her practice run as a kid, after all.

    “Stanley, crying is healthy. To me, I’m seeing how committed you are to your omega. If Theo argued with me like that I’d hope he’d get as upset as you for the guilt he felt too. You’re a good man, and a good husband. I know and I’m confident you’ll be a good dad. With me so far?”

     Stanley nodded. Phoebe was the best sister he could’ve asked for, she could read him like a book.

     “So let’s get that outta the way. As an omega myself, you gotta have empathy for yours, stick by him even if he gives you the worst attitude and disrespect you’ve ever seen in your damn life. Then again, we’ve seen the worst person ever and made it out! You’re already set, little brother!” Phoebe chuckled, “Xeno loves you. He needs you now more than ever. I know you feel so guilty, Stan, you have to let it go. The more you hold onto a mistake you made, the more it’s gonna eat you like mom ate McDonald’s ice cream while pregnant with Maryanna.”

    Stanley chuckled at the memory of his mom coming home with mcflurries for her kids and three for herself. She really had her moments of being hilarious.

     “The more you hold onto things Xeno will forgive you for, the more upset you’ll be. Communicate with him. Ask him how he feels about your injury if you haven’t already, Stan.”

     “I d-did,” Stanley replied, “th-the sweet thing said h-he forgave me.. for leavin’, you know? How w-was I s’pposed to know he was knocked up?”

     “Neither of you knew. I bet Xeno didn’t suspect it at first, either, and I’m not surprised in the slightest that he forgives you for that. Stanley, it was any other day for you guys after you got lucky. From what you’ve told me Xeno’s heats aren’t exactly a pattern, right?”

    “Y-yeah. O-only thing weird was…. His heat and my r-rut synced…” Stanley replied with a sniffle at the end.

     “And that’s happened before, right?”

     Stanley nodded.

    “Then how were you supposed to know you’d get lucky, Stan?” Phoebe replied, her eyes meeting her brother’s in the camera, “you need to forgive yourself and not take your anger out on the omega you’ve loved your whole life, that’s giving you both your first and potentially only child. Especially because of what you’ve been through. Let it go, Stanley, for Xeno’s sake, and your pup’s. If you don’t you may as well poison the water all three of you drink.”

     Phoebe hit the nail right on the head, threw the dart into the bullseye and gave her brother the toughest love she could. She truly could read him like a book.

    “Y-you’re so d-damn right, Phoebe, I wanna smack ya,” Stanley said. He was joking and she knew that, only confirming her suspicions as to what was going on in her brother’s overcrowded brain.

     “I have known you since you were born, silly, I held you before dad did,” Phoebe said with a smile, “I loved you then and I still do. Get your ass back home soon, after you say sorry to Xeno.”

    Phoebe was crass like her brother could be. She knew when to poke fun at Stanley based off his expression and eyes, the hurt dwindling when Phoebe practically sniped at his problem.

      “W-will do. Wanted ma to see the pup anyways,” Stanley replied, “was thinking of when the time comes, havin’ the pup back home, you know? It makes sense.”

    “Ask Xeno. I’m sure he’d love that,” Phoebe replied, “is he a high risk pregnancy?”

    Stanley nodded.

    “Then for heaven’s sake, Stan, stay with him! I know you’re hurt, so do what you want in that regard. Asking for help is your choice. You’re a grown alpha who make his own choices. But taking care of your mate and your own health is your number one priority, ‘kay? Drive yourself back home, now. Start up your car and go talk this out with Xeno.”

     Stanley’s blood ran cold. That was what he dreaded most- going home when Xeno told him not to come back. Phoebe wasn’t in Japan to play peacemaker if he went home to the angriest Xeno he saw in years. 

    “Phoebe, he slapped m-me,” Stanley said, pointing to his slightly reddened cheek from Xeno’s open palm.

     “The omega’s pregnant, Stan, and I’m sure you upset him. Don’t underestimate those hormones,” Phoebe replied, understanding her brother and getting down to his level instead of scolding him, “talk. To. Him. That’s the only way to fix it. Neither of you are saints, it always takes two to argue.”

    “I know, man, I know… I just-“

    “Don’t start with me, little one, I’m older, remember?” Phoebe teased, “it’s okay. It’ll be alright.”

     Stanley nodded. He took a moment to let out a sigh of relief and mentally prepare himself for the missus when he returned home. He had been out for an hour at that point, surely Xeno was back to sleep by then.

    “Fine. Im goin’ for a drive first, though. It’s like… when I-i confessed… gotta… p-prepare.. what I say.”

     “That’s so sweet. You’re a good person. But your ankle’s still broken, Stanley,” Phoebe said, “why not turn on some music and stay where you are? Only drive to get home, when you absolutely have to. Don’t hurt yourself more.”

    Stanley shrugged, “I-I knew what I was gettin’ myself into, man. It’s n-no big deal. My ankle is what’s broken, not my foot.”

    “Stubborn,” Phoebe replied, “I don’t know anyone as stubborn as you, Stan.”

    There was a moment of silence as Stanley finished his smoke and threw it out the window, letting in the chill of the morning air. It sent a shiver up the unphased marine’s spine.

    “How about… we t-tell the kids when I come back to the states with Xeno?” Stanley suggested, “ ‘cause I-I can’t do that now. I’m a mess.”

    Phoebe nodded, “sounds like a plan. Take your time, okay? Make sure to talk this out civilly with Xeno.”

     Stanley nodded. 

     “Thanks, sis. I knew I could count on you,” Stanley said with a smile, “talk to you soon then?”

      Phoebe nodded back, “of course. I’m gonna go help the kids now. I better see you and Xeno back here in a couple months! Maybe we can do a gender reveal, hmm?”

     Stanley would be lying if he said he didn’t want to entertain that idea, “sure.”

   And with that, Stanley said his final goodbyes to his sister over the shouts of her rambunctious children. He felt the loneliness of the early morning and his emotions immediately after Phoebe was gone. The alpha started up his truck once more to begin the trek back home. If he regretted this… he may not be able to look in a mirror ever again, let alone the mother of his pup.

    The drive around the backroads made Stanley long to stay out even more. He couldn’t deny how gorgeous the Japanese scenery was, the blooming of the cherry blossoms at their peak in the springtime. The petals fell on Stanley’s windshield as he drove down the road, making his black truck have a pop of some much needed color. Despite him being in Japan, Stanley felt safe and at home. He was away from his mother and Xeno’s parents which gave him a break from their smothering and questions (as much as he loved them). 

     The alpha, with a reluctant sigh, popped out another cigarette as thoughts raced through his head faster than his truck was going, at a questionable 45 miles an hour. He puffed out smoke into the morning air once again, thinking of Xeno and his pup. How could he think of anything else? The more he thought of Xeno, of what he said. The ‘fuck you, Xeno’ he said to the mother of his pup. The man he loved since he was a child. The man that helped save his life. His reason for being. Fighting with Xeno was only bound to happen. With a stubborn and bratty side that the omega often kept under wraps, it was bound to happen at one point or another in their relationship of well over a decade. 

      Stanley couldn’t resist the temptation that consumed him. He fidgeted in the cup holder for his cigarettes, worrying himself damn near to death knowing he had to see Xeno after their heated argument. Maybe, just maybe… he’d stall another hour or two. Or three, who knows?

Chapter Text

That morning was like any other for Byakuya Ishigami, and he was alright with that. His son would be coming home to stay in about a month, the old man simply couldn’t wait for his ray of sunshine to stay with him for awhile, with Gen hopefully tagging along. His son lived 45 minutes south of him, and Gen lived an hour and a half north. Making that commute for Senku was hell on earth. What Byakuya wanted more than anything? For his damn son to mate Gen, tie the knot and move in together. His boy (who was a man, at 21) was so insistent that he got his degree before moving in with Gen. 

    Byakuya rubbed the sleep from his eyes so he could look over at his still sleeping wife, Lillian. She was always so full of energy and singing around the house that seeing her peaceful felt so different, but in a good way. It gave Byakuya a warm and fuzzy feeling. He leant over, planting a kiss on her forehead.

    The dress shirt and pants that awaited Byakuya were laid on top of his dresser, neatly folded. He went into the bathroom to throw on his clothes, freshen up and even throw on a collar to block his own alpha scent. Sometimes the omegas, even with Byakuya’s age were all over him. He planned to head out the door with a half hour of wiggle room to get a coffee at the cafe before he went into the office. He wasn’t on any fancy astronaut duty that day, instead, rather just preparing for his next mission with more classroom work and education.

    Byakuya paused as he grabbed his car keys. He had completely forgotten… just a couple days ago, he had told Stanley and Xeno that he’d check on them the next morning in the home next door. Well… there was no rest for the wicked, he couldn’t be late any more. Byakuya Ishigami got into his car and pulled down the hill to park in the driveway so he could avoid the somewhat long walk to the smaller house beside his own. 

     The father of Senku made a face of confusion noticing Xeno’s BMW parked, but no trace of Stanley’s truck in front of it. Did they take it for an errand? Xeno was in no condition to drive with how sick he was, and Stanley’s ankle was still healing. What was going on?

     Byakuya walked at a brisk pace to the porch, stepping in to the front door and knocking. He had a distinct knock pattern so Xeno and Stanley knew who was at the door…. And, well, it is Byakuya of all people, and there wasn’t anyone quite like him. 

     “Hey, Dr. Xeno? Stanley, you there?” Byakuya said, “it’s just me, Byakuya, I forgot to check in yesterday so I’m here now! Can I come in or are you guys in the middle of something?”

    Byakuya got even more concerned when there was silence on the other side of the door. He didn't want to barge in, in case of… anything private happening, or if the two were still asleep. The astronaut alpha knew damn well Xeno was an all-nighter kind of person, but with now that the omega was pregnant, that might’ve been a completely different story. 

    “Dr. Xeno?” Byakuya asked yet again, “Stanley?”

    “Hang on…” a weak voice called from inside the house. The pang of relief went from Byakuya’s inner father of a heart to every artery and vein in his body. Xeno and Stanley were really just kids in his eyes, he saw them as extensions of his family and great friends.

    “Xeno! Oh, thank god!” Byakuya called out, “is Stanley there? I noticed his truck was gone, and I-“

    Byakuya went quiet when Xeno opened the door, looking disheveled and like he had been crying all night. The poor thing…

    “Xeno?” Byakuya asked, his voice going down several decibels when he picked up on the situation, “don’t.. don’t tell me…”

     “The baby’s fine. Come on in,” Xeno said, “I was just about to finish grading my student’s work.”

    Xeno wasn’t fooling the papa bear that was embedded in Byakuya. He knew the omega was full of shit and trying to save face to keep up his old self. He was a science lover through and through. It just goes to show how badly the pregnancy was affecting him, he could hardly work with how sick and tired he always was.

    “Xeno… you look… well, awful. I know you weren't grading. What’s going on?” Byakuya asked as he stepped into the house, Xeno shutting the door behind him. He spun around to face the man, eyes wide.

    “Calling my bluff?” Xeno asked, smirking, “it’s true.”

    Byakuya sighed. The old Dr. Xeno before the pup would stay up all night, work tirelessly and have sex with Stanley all the time. Xeno was trying to find joy in what he loved and desperately cling on to science when he was going through mountains of changes. 

     “Alright, but… where’s Stanley?” Byakuya asked, not wanting to fight. Xeno was stubborn and bratty- he knew that much.

     “Not home,” Xeno answered flatly, sitting down at his kitchen table and rubbing his belly, “he just went to run errands.” 

     “With a broken ankle?” Byakuya asked, even more confused. Xeno was giving him simple, short answers, which meant he was bitter about something.

     “Yeah. Talk to him about it, not like I’d know. I told him how illogical it was myself. He never listens to me.”

     Xeno looked down at his stomach, sighing. He crossed one leg over another and looked over at all the photos of his and Stanley’s adventures throughout the year pinned on a big cork board right on the wall, separating the kitchen from the living room.

     “Did you two get into a fight?” Byakuya asked, sighing. He took a seat at the table across from Xeno. Dealing with him when he wasn’t moody was difficult enough… the old man had to get ready for the most interesting conversation he’d have all day.

     “… you could say that.”

     Byakuya sighed again, “at least tell me what happened.”

     “He was being a dick, so I slapped him and told him to leave if he wanted his cigarettes so badly,” Xeno replied, “such a shame he chose that over staying home with me, really.”

     “I… highly doubt Stanley would do that,” Byakuya replied, stifling back a chuckle, “didn’t he get drugged to hell? Plus the dude’s been through a lot. I’m sure that’s gotta mess with him, right?”

     “I suppose so. Regardless, he left. He’s so stubborn. Stan can’t help but do whatever he wants when he knows it’s going to worry me half to death because he’s going to get himself killed !” Xeno shouted out, standing up and slamming his hands on the table, “he’s been leaving me all the time for years! It’s about time he gets his ass back home, gets help for us now, and then raises our child with me! But instead, he cares more about taking the risk of a car crash and getting poison for his lungs!” 

     Xeno’s eyes filled with tears, the omega collapsing back into his seat.

     “I can’t lose him again. He almost died on me and our pup, Byakuya. I could be a single mother as we speak and I’d have NO IDEA!”

    Byakuya was dead silent in shock at the sudden change in emotion from anger, to hurt and sorrow. Xeno never showed this sort of emotion around him. He couldn’t hurt the omega when he was in such a vulnerable place physically and mentally. He had to think fast, and he did the thing he did best when Lillian was upset and the couple times Senku came to him in tears. 

     The alpha stood up, walked over to Xeno and knelt down to get at his level so he could wrap his arms around the omega and give him a hug. A shoulder to cry on, someone who would listen.

    Much to his surprise, Xeno hugged back . He was sobbing into Byakuya’s shoulder and curling his finger so they dug into his shirt.

     So there they sat, hugging in silence as Xeno sobbed into Byakuya’s shoulder. The old man was speechless in more ways than one. Stanley and Xeno were like two peas in a pod on any normal day. He saw how much the omega’s pregnancy and alpha’s injuries were truly affecting their lives and how even the strongest of people could crack under the pressure.

     “Shhh, Xeno, it’ll be okay. Stanley’s always loved you. Nothing’s going to change that!”  Byakuya said, only making Xeno sob even more. His nails were digging into the alpha’s skin at that point.

Fifteen minutes later 

     “Xeno- I have to- Xeno!” Byakuya gasped, Xeno clinging onto him for absolute dear life. He was in shambles and that energy was contagious to the man who had to go into work. 

    “Xeno, how about I send Lillian over?” Byakuya offered, “she’s asleep so- it’ll take some time-!”

    Xeno’s hug was squeezing the life out of Byakuya at that point. The alpha had to no but to pry off Xeno’s hands and hold them in his own, looking the omega he had known for years in the eyes. They were longtime friends, since Xeno was 15 at that science convention. Byakuya simply couldn’t believe it then- a little omegan teenager blew everyone’s minds away. Byakuya was unlike any other alpha being as kindhearted as he was, and Xeno was unlike most other omegas in that he was independent and incredibly hardworking.

    “Xeno… pull yourself together,” Byakuya said, determined, “you can do this. Just like Senku always tells me, a scientist never knows when to give up, because they never do!”

    Xeno looked down for a moment, ashamed he had deprived the sweetheart that was Byakuya of oxygen. Perhaps being an evil mad scientist all the time came with its downfalls, lack of hugs from anyone was one of them, even Stanley, when he wasn't home. This man had known him long enough to be in too deep and see that emotional side of him- there was no going back now.

    “I’m going to work now, okay? I’ll send a text Lillian’s way when I’m in my car, how’s that sound? Get excited, Xeno!” Byakuya chuckled, standing up with his hands on his hips, “today will be a good day! An especially good day to talk to your husband, am I right?”

    Xeno crossed his arms and looked across his home to the bathrobe hanging in his bedroom, annoyed by Byakuya’s hyper energy at that point. It was too early and the scientist didn’t have any coffee that day after going completely cold turkey at that positive ultrasound and pregnancy test.

    “Whatever you say,” Xeno sighed, leaning back in his seat, “my pup and I will be here plotting world domination, I suppose.”

      Xeno sighed, rubbing his stomach and tilting his head back so his neck was exposed. The world didn't matter to him for those few moments that he took a deep breath.

    Byakuya was rather terrified of Xeno and Stanley’s determination and love for each other. If they wanted to take over the world, they totally could! Perhaps that was what scared the alpha… anything Xeno said, had a solution that he could work towards. Nothing was impossible for him, and with Stanley’s protection, the two were scientific juggernauts.

    “You haven’t been doing that already?!” Byakuya joked to shield himself, rubbing the back of his neck, “try not to do it today, I want to see space again soon! Catch you later, doc!”

    Byakuya waved goodbye to Xeno who looked pure evil in that very moment, leaned back in his chair with one leg crossed over the other and his fingers intertwined over his belly. The slacks and dress shirt completely sold Xeno’s look, like his usual scientist self that was somehow drained, tired, and emotional all at once. He was a hot mess, in Stanley’s eyes.

     Xeno watched Byakuya leave and exit through the porch, going down the dirt driveway to his car. The next vehicle he’d see there- Stanley’s pickup truck- would cause his electron hungry molecules of emotions to snatch up whatever they could find and become balanced. Xeno both wanted Stanley and also wanted to slap him again for leaving. His husband was the only one who could make him feel that way! In fact, Xeno only felt deep rooted feelings for his husband and some for his sister, and a sliver for his parents. He held some spite to his father for always being away on business and leaving his mother to work part time jobs while having a nanny around to help primarily raise him and his much older sister.

     Byakuya was far down the desolate road that twisted and turned to lead back to his home. He came to the stop sign, looking both ways and taking a right to get to work. The road that connected to his own was rather busy once he hit the first traffic light at the intersection. 

    That’s when he saw it. Those old man’s eyes weren’t deceiving him yet.

     A black pickup truck, with an arm hanging out the driver’s side window with a cigarette between those fingers. The wind blew the smoke of the cigarette in the direction of Byakuya’s car and he caught a whiff of it, recognizing the smell as Stanley’s usual brand of cigarettes he always picked up from a gas station. Stanley was heading the opposite direction of Byakuya- towards his own home. 

     Byakuya did what he would do on any normal day and opened his driver’s side window, waving frantically to Stanley while their lights were both still red.

     “STANLEY!!!” Byakuya shouted, beaming a huge smile, “HEY!!” 

     That caught the attention of the attentive and hyper focused soldier, Stanley poking his head out the window to see who was shouting at him, expecting no one else to have such a melodic and loud voice as Byakuya himself, in the flesh.

     The alpha sighed, waving back reluctantly. Sometimes he wished Byakuya could tone it down a notch, even if he was glad to have someone like that in his life to balance things out. His daily doses of Byakuya reached their limits quickly, however. Stanley was a more reserved and standoffish, prideful man. Xeno was friends with Byakuya because of their common interests and through Senku. Xeno was a very blunt person at times and Byakuya appreciated that greatly, Xeno never hesitated to state how he felt even through all the tears he was working through.

     Byakuya’s light went green and he drove past Stanley, waving to the alpha and slowing down when beside that all too familiar truck he’d see pull in with a cloud of cigarette smoke behind it.

     “Go see Xeno!” Byakuya shouted to him, throwing a thumbs up before disappearing behind a line of cars. 

     Stanley was left flabbergasted, wondering why the fuck his husband confided in Byakuya of all people- Xeno almost never shared anything with anyone except Stanley himself. It made sense… The two almost never argued as bad as they did that morning. Xeno’s older sister and parents were back in the states, so talking to the next best option only made sense, logically. Without Lillian or Senku around, Byakuya was next in line.

      The alpha felt a pang of jealousy and possession. How dare another alpha hug his omega and talk about his married life and their argument? Xeno may have slapped Stanley but that wasn’t enough to stop him. He still loved his mate through thick and thin, in sickness and in health.

    Stanley knew damn well Byakuya wouldn’t do anything. He was a good, honest and kind man; nothing was stopping those cracking from the seams alpha instincts, however. If Byakuya did it, what if another alpha stumbled into Xeno and did something to him? Who was to say Xeno was even home, safe with the pup? Stanley was on his way home anyways, but at that moment, nothing else mattered to him except for talking to Xeno. He was Xeno’s alpha, he had to step up to the plate once and for all- dig his feet in and grow into a worthy father- a better father than his own sad piece of shit dad ever dreamed of being. 

    Stanley realized as he drove that Xeno was right. The more angry and prideful he got, packing his feelings away and shelving them- the more like his own deadbeat, jail rotting father he’d become. He’d start off strong by filing his resignation for the Marines and applying for a job part time. He had hit the big age of 30 anyways- Xeno wanted to settle down at some point so Stanley could pick up a part time or perhaps, even a full time job. Xeno’s hefty NASA and teaching paychecks were enough to keep them afloat but Stanley wouldn’t be able to sleep at night knowing he was a couch potato at home every damn day. Xeno couldn’t go to work for much longer. His belly and sickness would only grow, his days of work were limited.

     The Marine, soon to be retired, was driving his truck back in the direction of home, smoking one last cigarette to calm the nerves of having to face his pregnant omega wife who would surely have his head by the time he got to him. Stanley was well aware that he was deserving of such treatment, like the peanut butter to the jelly sandwich of shit from their argument hours ago. Xeno’s reaction was over the top and worsened the situation, meshed with Stanley’s withdrawals and cabin fever to only anger him more just smothered both the alpha and omega with emotions they didn’t want, like a serial killer had come in and tried to end them both together, only to fail and leave them a long refractory period over things that happened within minutes: Stanley’s injury, and the pup’s conception from a miracle knot.

~

    Pulling into the driveway he was always comfortable with made the usually strong and standoffish marine even feel some pooling worry of blood fill his heart. His angry missus would either ignore him, yell at him again, or who knows- show him the divorce papers. No - Xeno wasn’t illogical like that. He wouldn’t divorce his husband over some stupid argument that they rarely ever got into. If Stanley himself knew it was because of the pregnancy hormones, then there was no way that Xeno didn’t. 

    Stanley was forced to silence each and every “what if” and self-doubting thought as he limped to the front door, cigarettes in his shorts pocket and dignity still somewhat intact. His ankle was hurting quite badly at that moment. He’d regret what he did if the repercussions were truly worse than bedrotting with a broken ankle. Then again, Stanley doubted that it was worse- he was young, healthy and strong- he’d be able to handle it.

     The alpha felt the rocks of his dirt driveway under his slide-on adidas shoes. They were a gift from his beloved husband, it was a constant reminder of Xeno, much like the small achy sensations from his claim mark that came and went. Or, perhaps, it was the creeping feeling of an upcoming rut around the corner. Stanley couldn’t have thought of a more awful time to practically ask his pregnant mate for sex just because he was going to be in full rut within a week after they had a fight. 

     Stanley hadn’t had a rut since Xeno fell pregnant, and due to his time in the military and being drugged to hell (rut suppressant shots from the base and hospital), finally being home for some time to let his body heal and become normal again, the boiling pot of water that was Stanley Snyder’s rut was bound to come back at some point in full swing. When that was, the alpha didn’t know- and that was what scared him. Stanley always kept track of his rut until he was stationed again at the base and given the usual rut suppressant shots. It factory reset the alpha pheromones, making Stanley’s body almost as unpredictable as his omega’s, in a different way. 

     The alpha fidgeted with his keys to get into his house. The door to the porch had a big window on it, revealing the porch as empty, with just some chairs and a table, Xeno’s abacus still out there that had been left outside for at least a week after he ran to throw up in the house.

    Stanley took in a deep breath, letting it sit for a moment, and then exhaling rudimentary relaxation and peace. He put his key in the door, turning the metal piece until he heard the click of the lock to let him in the house. He didn’t hear any scurrying footsteps like he sometimes did when he came home from a long trip to Xeno greeting him. For obvious reasons, that wasn’t the case this time around. It made the alpha feel guilt and even hesitation, pausing as the door creaked open. Then, those words repeated in his head.

     “Stanley, you are no soldier or son of mine if you can’t show ‘em no mercy! Show ‘em what a Snyder is made of after you set your mind to somethin’!

    The almost abusive words of his father lit a fire in Stanley that made him want to speak his mind, instead of the connotation his father had of belittling his only son into submission to make him a mindless soldier. Stanley’s father planned to make a slave of his son, a slave to the marines and manhood and live to abuse his omega and produce more offspring to continue the bloodline. Stanley wouldn’t ever let that happen to his child- he was a better man than that! Being the better man meant sucking it up and facing his and Xeno’s predicament head on.

    And with that, Stanley opened the door and finally stepped foot in his house.

Chapter Text

Stanley walked into his home to see the empty kitchen with remnants of tea that were made. The curtains were untouched from the night before, but just beyond the windows and past the partial wall separating the kitchen and living room, the alpha saw the glow of Xeno’s computer screen. 

    What dazzled the man beyond that was the smell . It could only be described as the most horrendous, disgusting chemical reaction of a rotting piece of cheese smeared on a rotting corpse on the battlefield, the most iconic duo Stanley could think of.

      That’s when Stanley heard the voice of his beloved, the omega who probably hated him- Xeno.

    “Butyric acid is perhaps one of the most foul smelling chemicals out there. Making it at home for me, however, would not be dangerous aside from the odor. In fact, it helps improve the function of your gastrointestinal tract by making normal flora flourish. It’s quite elegant,” Xeno explained, presumably to a student overseas back home.

     Hearing the omega talk about his love and passion for science warmed Stanley’s heart. Sometimes he worried that science could dethrone him as Xeno’s one and only love… as much as he tried not to think about that.

     The student on the other end was hard for Stanley to make out, but they made some fascinated noise as Xeno presented the mixing of the chemical compound to them, the color changing completely to a clear liquid. It was some girl that was much younger than Xeno was- likely in her early 20’s, with blonde hair and blue eyes like Stanley himself.

    Xeno must’ve heard the door; his next words made Stanley’s blood run cold with anxiety for how he’d react.

    “Ah, my partner just got home. Excuse me a moment,” Xeno said, promptly muting himself and shutting off his camera before he got up from his desk. Things could get ugly, and the omega knew that going in.

    Xeno appeared around the corner, his glowing complexion radiating the room. It felt like mad scientist Dr. Xeno was back in his full glory, wearing his usual button up shirt and slacks, completing the look with his lab coat over it all with “Dr. Xeno H. Wingfield” embroidered into the upper left chest.

    “Stan,” Xeno said, “I told you not to come back.”

     Stanley shrugged. He felt the guilt wash over him again seeing Xeno purposely rest a hand over his stomach. He felt like an awful dad, husband, brother and son long before that fight happened.

    “If you want me to go, just say it. None of this beatin’ around the bush crap.”

     Xeno shook his head, taking a few steps closer to his husband Stanley. He wore those gloves with the long metal ends of each finger, like acrylic nails.

     “You’re such a jackass, Stan. Stay,” Xeno replied, sighing. The omega then turned around, ignoring Stanley’s small gasp of shock. Why wasn’t he… slapping him again? Threatening him? Shouting? Leaving himself?

    “Well, alright, then,” Stanley replied, somewhat defeated and just tired of fighting, “don’t call me shit, Xeno. That’s not why I’m here.”

    “Then leave again for all I care. It’s not like you do.”

    “Are you fucking kidding me, Xeno? That's why I’m here!” Stanley barked, his voice going up some decibels, “if I didn’t care, I’d be off fucking another omega or getting shitfaced.”

    “I suppose that’s true,” Xeno replied, looking down towards the kitchen island and then back up at his husband, who was about ten feet from him, “then again, I-“

    “No. None of that, Xeno. You know what I did, babe ? I got my smokes, then I sat in my damn truck and I cried. Look at me! Fucking look in my eyes, Xeno! I swear to god , I felt awful . I still do! I called my sister crying and asking her what the fuck to do. I’m lost and the only thing I know what to say is that… I’m sorry . I’m sorry for being a dick. I kinda was, okay? I had every right to be. And yeah, I’m guilty, but it was just bad shit happening over and over. We couldn’t have predicted the pup and I shouldn’t have held it against you. It was with me. I won’t end up like my old man, for fuck’s sake… that’s my worst nightmare!”

    “I know, Stanley, it’s okay,” Xeno replied. The more Stanley went on, the more Xeno’s expression softened with empathy and understanding. Xeno never showed that side of him to anyone. Even Stanley only saw it once in a blue moon. If anything, the alpha was lucky he could get that out of Xeno.

    “To be fair, my hormones are not helping the situation,” Xeno added, “I think we needed space from each other to recoup.”

     Xeno did the absolute unthinkable and went right up to Stanley, cupping his face with one hand and leaning in to kiss him. He used his other hand to hold Stanley’s chin with his index finger, the cold of the metal having the usual arousing effect on the alpha. He loved when Xeno was in mad scientist mode. Still, the move was unexpected for the alpha, his entire body tensed like he was kissing Xeno for the first time again as teenagers. The butterflies returned from their cavern and fluttered about in his stomach.

     Xeno pulled away after a moment and smiled at Stanley, “I forgive you, Stan. Give me a chance to finish my call and we will further discuss this.”

    Xeno turned back around and went over to his computer to talk to his student. The chemical compound was exactly where he left it, untouched and the liquid unmoving. 

    Like the lost and in love puppy he was, Stanley followed Xeno back to his desk. In the past, Xeno allowed his husband to make cameos in the calls as long as he wasn’t distracting towards the lesson.

    Xeno unmuted his mic and turned his camera back on, showing himself in his chair, and Stanley’s body from his waist down to his knees. 

    “Apologies for my absence, Ms. Cunningham, let’s continue.”

    “Dr. Wingfield, there’s someone behind you,” the student said, eyes going wide and a finger pointing over her professor’s shoulder. She wasn’t used to seeing him so laid back and domestic, or even married for that matter. Xeno wasn’t the type and many people he newly met were always surprised to find out he had been with Stanley practically his whole life.

    “That’s just my husband,” Xeno assured the student, then holding back up the concoction he made of god knows what funky chemicals, “email me if you should have any more questions. I showed you how to make the acid safely, how to calculate the molecular units. Are there any other questions you have for me while I am here?”

    “I didn’t know you were married!” The student gasped, “I thought your last name was hyphenated because… Nevermind! I understand the material now.”

    The student got flustered at the idea of talking casually with her teacher when it didn’t concern her. Plus, Xeno’s personality and gloves with elongated metal tips didn’t exactly roll out the welcome mat for someone who didn’t know him well.

    “Let’s stay on topic. I’m glad you understand. I’ll talk to you later, Miss Cunningham. I will post the new assignment by the end of the week,” Xeno replied, resting his chin on his intertwined fingers. Stanley walked away and out of frame to lessen the stress on the already nervous student. 

    The student nodded, “thank you very much! Have a great day!”

     And with that, the call ended, and Xeno sighed. He closed out of the tab with the Skype program and facepalmed completely on his desk.

     “What’s wrong?” Stanley asked from the couch from across the room, crossing his bad leg over the good one so his ankle dangled. They seemed to be on a better page now that they had a brief conversation before.

     “If she had taken a moment to read my email, she’d know I’m not only married, but pregnant ! So much for butting into my personal business on call. Ugh. I despise when my students don’t check their godforsaken emails.”

     Xeno rubbed his temples, sighing. He had to take a second to let out the steam before turning in his spinning office chair to face his beloved husband, “now, where were we?”

     Xeno was so damn cute when he was hard at work. Stanley loved to watch him do his thing, even the times when he got pissy like a little science-loving princess. The smell that came off the omega was unlike any other thing Stanley had experienced. Xeno with heightened emotions let off a scent that could make Stanley orgasm off it alone.

     “Dunno, man. Sorry for flipping out or whatever. I needed my smokes and I ain’t gettin’ babysat, but I’m willing to compromise with you on that one. I talked to Phoebe about it,” Stanley began, leaning back to give off a more calming and laid back aura to his mate. Xeno looked rather surprised that Stanley went to the lengths of calling his sister. He seemed interested.

     “Oh?” Xeno asked, then looking slightly apologetic, like he had taken the last cookie from the jar, “I’m sorry for slapping you, Stan. That wasn’t right on my part, either. I undeniably was very upset with you. You shouldn’t have gone out, not when you’re not done healing.”

     Stanley had to consciously repress his frustration because he knew Xeno was right . He was so damn right, it hurt . It ached him to the bone.

     “Y-yeah. You’re right,” Stanley replied, his head going down above his lap and into his palm. 

      “I’m glad you stayed with me for the pregnancy before. Thank you for holding out with me as you get better. However, I’m only going to get worse, so I’ll need you, Stan,” Xeno said, his cool as a cucumber manner going south quickly, “and I’m… scared.”

      Xeno never once uttered that phrase for as long as Stanley could remember. Even when they were kids, Xeno wasn’t afraid of any bullies, teachers, bad grades, or even coming out as gay on top of his omegan identity. 

     Stanley quickly picked his head up. His blue eyes met Xeno’s obsidian ones, wide as the sky was at noon, or an open ocean.

     “Xe…” Stanley said, dumbfounded at Xeno’s blunt honesty and the unusual sentence for his character. It wasn’t about Stanley Vs. Xeno, it was always about Stanley and Xeno Vs. The world and the problems. Together, they could beat this, they could have their pup together, hold each other’s hands through it all and care for their child.

    Stanley stood up, walking over to his mate and kneeling down. He took Xeno’s hands into his own.

     “I could lose both my legs and that wouldn’t stop me, ‘kay? Don’t be scared, Xe, I'm here now. I’ll never leave you or the pup. Ever ,” Stanley insisted. He felt like the knight Xeno always declared he was, kneeling before his princess and declaring just how much he loved him.

     “Stan… there’s a fairly good chance I could die,” Xeno choked out, his head down to look at his husband knelt before him, “how could I not be scared? Perhaps it’s not death itself that scares me… it’s being ripped away from you and our child that scares me.”

     Stanley felt like his heart abruptly stopped pumping blood, every vein and artery went cold as he envisioned something as horrible and terrifying as Xeno’s corpse on a hospital bed after giving birth to a pup prematurely. The alpha had to stifle back a sob at the comment Xeno made. He was a strong man on any other occasion, except when it came to his omega.

     “Xe… don’t fuckin’ say that to me… not when we just made up. Come on, now. You’ll be fine. I’ll make sure of it.”

     “You can’t guarantee that, Stan,” Xeno insisted, “let’s face reality. My chances of dying from this are somewhat high. Probability wise, I’d say 30-40%.”

     “Xeno! Stop!” Stanely barked, his eyes full of tears as he whipped his head up to Xeno and grabbed his face, cupping his cheeks and smooshing them together to make the cutest face of the cutest scientist to walk the planet, “don’t say that! We created a miracle , we will get through this! You’re not one to give up, especially when it comes to discovery of new things, what makes this any different? Don’t give in to fear because some asshole could say you’re gonna die. I could drop dead too at any second! Senku, Gen, Phoebe- anyone could! Let’s just live our lives as best we can!”

     Xeno never usually had his logic challenged by anyone, especially Stanley, but his husband was undeniably correct. Anyone could drop of a spontaneous brain aneurysm with no warning and be done for within seconds. Stanley was a smoker for many, many years. His health would become an issue down the line. The alpha’s youth was much to his advantage.

     Still, it hit Xeno. A Stanley Snyder pep talk was exactly what he needed. He saw the alpha take his negative emotions and then turn them to power , to use to uplift his omega and create hope. There was a light at the end of the tunnel for them, awaiting and glowing with joy.

     “Stan,” Xeno said, his eyes lighting up, “you’re right. That’s it!”

     The omega sprung up, hugging Stanley tightly, “I love you so much!” 

     Stanley gasped, completely taken aback by Xeno’s sudden burst of energy. It made sense, though, his words must’ve resonated with the omega and if that was indeed the case, he was a good husband after all. Stanley securely hugged Xeno back in a protective manner, like he was shielding his beloved omega from anything that could hurt him or their pup. 

      “I love you too, doll. We’re in this together, to the very end.”

~

      The makeup sex was incredible. *Stanley* was incredible. What time was it? What was the plan for dinner?

     The omega sat up in his bed, covered in hickies, bite marks and cum from his alpha after several rounds of makeup sex. The two always agreed that after an argument- big or small alike- that the sex after was like heaven on earth. Stanley’s orgasms joined hand in hand with Xeno’s, the two went for several rounds until the omega felt pregnant with twins, and the alpha promptly crashed to sleep after a small bout of aftercare. Stanley and Xeno missed it more than anything- it had been over a month since he properly pounded into Xeno. Xeno felt it early on in the sex, Stanley was panting much quicker than he usually did. Xeno’s husband didn’t start to show he got tired until several rounds in. To put it simply, Stanley was out of practice.

    Xeno gave in to Stanley’s desires, ultimately allowing his husband to learn the lesson the hard way by having sex with a broken ankle. After all, he missed it too, probably as much as Stan did, so how could Xeno deny it when they both were feeling okay?

     Xeno ran a hand through his hair that was down just to his shoulders. He missed his pompadour more often than not. The omega couldn't help himself. He reached over for his phone, giggling when he saw Stanley completely out cold, snoring. He had lipstick smeared on his face with his bangs sprawled out on the pillow from the previous activities. He looked like an angel even when disheveled. His blond hair was usually slicked back, but much like Xeno’s, it was completely down to roam free. Stanley sported an undercut that made him look more badass on the battlefield, even if that meant less hair for Xeno to gawk at. Seriously, even with how much he smoked, how was his hair and face still so pretty ? He was ripped to hell, handsome, and boasted some incredible endurance and stamina.

     Xeno snapped a photo of a sleeping Stanley in his natural habitat. To think that was the man who had Xeno on his back, legs over his hips as he fucked into him while whispering his list of dirty thoughts to him. 

     The omega slid out of bed with the stealth of a ninja (he’d enjoy it while it lasted, he’d eventually get too big) and put on his satin black bathrobe. It was the most comfortable and truly wine housewife mixed with mad scientist-esque articles of clothing he owned. It made him feel like the scientist princess to Stanley’s soldier knight.

     Xeno yawned, stretching his arms into the low ceiling. He didn’t feel too sick that day- thank goodness . The omega found that some days were often worse than others, like his old heats and symptoms before pregnancy ramped up to a hundred. 

      With the newfound opportunity and moment of peace and clarity, Xeno plopped down at his computer to see if he heard anything from his work or the university he taught at. The student he was video chatting with before sent Xeno an email of her work and a congratulations on his pup. To the doctor, it seemed like she finally caught up on the emails she didn’t bother to read before.

     The scientist meandered through his emails until one stuck out to him in particular. One that was marked with a name he knew quite well. Senku Ishigami.

    The email was to his teacher account, the one linked to his campus. How the hell did Senku get access to that? He was a smart kid but wouldn’t hack into anything he didn’t give a shit about.

    Xeno, with his curiosity at its peak, clicked on the email with his chin resting in his palm.

     Hey Doc!

        Don’t get too excited but I’m in your class for next semester! Hope you’re doing well. I’ll text you the details.

       -Senku 

    Quick, straight to the point, perfectly and elegantly logical like his pupil always was- it was how Xeno taught him back in the day of their mentorship and brotherhood when Senku was a child and Xeno a young adult. 

     Xeno, of course, couldn’t stifle the smile that forcefully tugged at his lips, begging to come out. He got his nimble fingers typing that reply quicker than his busy brain could register what he was even saying. He really did adore Senku, even if he couldn’t always admit it to himself.

    Good evening Senku,

    I am very pleased to hear you’re a part of my class! I have always wanted to teach you in a professional setting and look forward to the fall when we can kickstart the next semester. 

     Sincerely, 

         Dr. Xeno H. Wingfield

     And with that, Xeno hit send. He swapped to his other email account, his personal one. He begrudgingly answered an email regarding the water back at his home in the states. His good mood slightly went down after that debacle. 

     Xeno was a busy bee when at his computer. 20 minutes dragged on by, when he saw his phone buzz. He received a text from Senku, who must’ve been home at his apartment with Taiju and Yuzuriha. Xeno knew those two somewhat well and enjoyed their company, he just wished Senku would give in and move in with Gen. Those two kids had been dating for two years, it was about time they began to get settled together.

      Senku Ishigami: Hey doc. Did you see my email? I also got another thing for ya. 

     Xeno Wingfield: Oh? What is it?

    Senku began typing after a short moment. Xeno could imagine the kid in a pair of sweatpants and a hoodie on his couch after finishing all his schoolwork, tying up loose ends before exams.

       Senku Ishigami: so, you know my friend Yuzuriha, right? Well, she’s swapping majors into omega centric nursing. She’s interested in your pregnancy and wants to know if she can be there while you give birth and use you as a study guide. Mind if I give her your number old man? I think you being someone else’s test subject will be interesting. It gets me excited!

    Xeno was surprised at first. Yuzuriha going into nursing made sense- she was a caring and loving person, perfectly fit for the job. As an omega herself, she’d carry plenty of empathy for every other omega in the field. She’d know exactly how their bodies work. Xeno would be the only problem child, so to speak, with that high risk pregnancy and unpredictable, incredibly painful, and sometimes sporadic heats that came before he was finally knocked up. He hesitated before typing his response.

     Xeno Wingfield: Sure, I can speak with her. I assume she won’t be doing much while I’m giving birth, correct? 

     Senku Ishigami: Nah. She’d probably give more emotional support and hold stuff, things like that. I’d ask her to confirm that though.

    Xeno was pondering what to say. Yuzuriha was someone he was acquainted with, it made him flustered to think she’d see the confident and elegant Dr. Xeno on a hospital table screaming, with his omegan bits between his legs for everyone to see. Out of everyone he knew in Japan, Yuzuriha was the safest option to go with- especially when she had the same part he did. It was like a loss of dignity having someone that wasn’t his own husband seeing his private areas. He had a reputation to keep up! At the same time, he’d be making Senku very happy by… dammit all. Xeno was getting sentimental over that kid.

      Xeno Wingfield: Very well. Feel free to get her in contact with me.

     And with that, the omega placed his phone down and went back to his computer to grade more assignments. While Stanley slept and wasn’t craving his attention, he’d be able to get some more work done before his pregnancy would take over yet again and make him sick for however long that may be. To feel like a ticking time bomb was a feeling Xeno couldn’t even describe. He felt that pit in his stomach full of what ifs; what if he died in childbirth, or the pup? What if he miscarried? Xeno was suddenly overcome with emotions, putting his face in his hands from the stress that felt like pressure within his skull.

     “Hey, doll.”

     A pair of loving arms had wrapped around Xeno, warming his body up from the cool air in their home. 

     Xeno jumped, his hands uncovering his face with the speed of sound as he spun around to meet his husband’s feminine face.

    “Stanley! You startled me!” Xeno said, “do that again and you’ll send me in labor!”

    “Sorry, sweetheart,” Stanley replied,, planting a big kiss on Xeno’s cheek before leaning into his ear to whisper, “can you find it in your heart to forgive me again?”

     Chills went up Xeno’s rollercoaster of a spine. Stanley knew exactly how to seduce him.

     “My ass still hurts from earlier, Stan,” Xeno said, pouting, “fucking me won’t get your pup out any quicker.”

     Stanley snorted at the sheer blunt and cruel nature of Xeno’s reply. He buried his face in his omega’s shoulder, scenting him in the process. Xeno felt slick sneak out between his legs from Stanley. He cursed whatever went on in his brain to turn him on by his alpha. It was the sleepy voice, the bed head, the strong arms around him and the whispers of a flirtatious nature that drove Xeno insane. Stanley used to be a fuckboy so flirting was his expertise and being a freak in the sheets was his guilty little passion project.

    “B-bed… Stan~” Xeno whimpered, his back arching from the chair as his alpha slid a hand right between the robe to touch Xeno’s belly and little omegan cock. 

    “Before we go,” Stanley said, still whispering in his omega wife’s ear, “the doc emailed me. Said I can get a brace for my ankle and retire the damn cast in a week and a half.”

     Xeno was so glad to hear the news. Beyond all odds, Stanley’s ankle was fine after all the dumb shit he did, like having sex and driving his truck. Perhaps he’d learn his lesson another time. They deserved and earned that damn luck.

    “Stan, that’s wonderful,” Xeno sighed, breathlessly and dreamily, “but now you’ve got me hot and bothered. What’re you gonna do?”

    “Hmm…” Stanley said, nuzzling his cheek against Xeno’s face and planting another kiss to his cheek. His finger wandered down to Xeno’s omega bits and the pussy he’d give birth from in 8 months. He fondled it between his fingers, using gentle motions to drive Xeno crazy.

    “I’ll make some dinner,” Stanley replied abruptly, letting go and standing up. He was totally fucking with the omega and Xeno knew it. With the fury of all scientists in NASA and JAXA put together, Xeno stood up. Stanley was in nothing but his boxers with his back facing Xeno to hide the smirk plastered all over that gorgeous face of his.

     “Absolutely not! My chair is covered in slick!” Xeno said, raising his voice, “get on our bed and fuck me or else!”

     “Or else what?” Stanley replied.

     “I… I’ll…!”

    Stanley went up to Xeno and began to kiss him, grabbing his ass and holding his face to get more action. Xeno immediately kissed back, putting his hands on Stanley’s chest and moaning within the kiss. He’d enjoy the fun while it lasted, the omega knew his days of being small were numbered.

Chapter Text

4 days later: 

    8:47 PM, Magician and Mentalist Gen Asagiri

   Just how long had it been since he finished the show?

   Asagiri Gen sat on his custom made chair, high off the ground and allowing his feet to dangle. It had his name embroidered in the back on the black fabric- he was so famous he couldn’t hide it! The magician inspected his magenta painted nails to go with the accents of his outfit. 

    The omegan magician was a completely different person when away from his beloved boyfriend, Senku. He had to fake it for the camera and put on his best and most true, memorable and iconic cunning grin. Ever since he split dyed his hair years ago, rumors began flying around of Gen’s secondary gender. The omega wore the strongest of scent blocking collars they had on the market and kept the secret stash of purple and black bejeweled collars in his luxury yet lonely apartment.

     Gen was in northern Japan for his tour and unfortunately far away from his boyfriend, putting him in a mood he wished didn’t come out of him at times. It was like he was mated to Senku already and missed him like the ocean missed the moon. Gen also found himself missing the closest people he saw as parents- Stanley and Xeno. 

     “Ukyo-Chan!” Gen called from his director’s chair, “when are we outta here for ramen after the meet and greet?”

     Ukyo, Gen’s good friend and also his manager, was taking longer than usual to use the bathroom and get his suit fixed up. Gen had sold out special tickets to this particular meet and greet banquet, which meant meeting 50 people who bought the tickets- eating, taking photos with them and hanging out before he could go back to his tour bus and sleep for the night there. Potentially, he could FaceTime Senku once he was out of there, and that thought kept him going.

     Senku and Gen’s good friend, Shishio Tsukasa had joined them for the backstage hangout after he was able to attend the show. He was sitting on a nearby couch against the wall, scrolling through his phone and presumably texting Senku and Hyoga back home. Gen looked over to Tsukasa with a smile, winking at him.

    “What? Ukyo’s a busy man, Gen,” Tsukasa said with a smile, “be patient.”

    “Oh, what, I can’t be queen for a day~?” Gen sighed, leaning back in his chair, “oh well.”

     “One minute, Gen!” Ukyo called back, a sudden thought hitting the older omega as he thought of Gen and his change in scent, “check if Senku reached out, your phone’s in your backpack!”

     Ukyo was an older, unmated omega. He didn’t have any interest in dating or having pups of his own when he had Gen and their circle to keep him fulfilled in life. Still, the mentalist had a sneaking suspicion that Ukyo was lonely and in secret need of a partner. Gen often played matchmaker with people he knew and each time it went south. Ukyo even once tried to play wingman for Gen before he met Senku. Regrettably, Gen slept with two alpha guys and an alpha girl from his time. He was quite the playboy before he met his true love within his dear Senku. There was some truth to be told in opposites attract. Gen never felt love for Hyoga, Magma or Nikki when he had sex with any of them. It turned out Gen and Nikki each ended up with someone of their same primary gender. Magma wasn’t over Gen, and Hyoga found an omega for himself after messing around with Gen.

    “Ah, ‘illiant-bray idea!” Gen exclaimed. He had ten minutes before the meet and greet dinner, which gave him ample time to text with his boyfriend who was most definitely awake. When Senku slept best, Gen was beside him. More often than not, Senku pulled all-nighters, especially when he was in college. The term had just ended which made Gen hopelessly worry deep down that his boyfriend would be sleeping earlier. 

    Gen unlocked his phone to open the text message conversation he had with Senku, the last message sent being from the previous evening. Senku had sent a photo of his latest project and Gen simply gawked at it in response. Senku sent a single heart emoji that made Gen’s own heart absolutely melt.

     Mentalist: Senku chaaaan 💚 

    Gen had to wait an agonizing two minutes before he got a response. The clock was ticking and every second counted.

     Senkie: Hey you. Glad to hear from ya. How was the show?

   The mentalist squealed and kicked his feet in the chair like a kid excited to get a lollipop after a visit with the doctor. Senku packed something much better than any lollipop in Gen’s eyes.

    Mentalist: It was okay. I’m just sleepy~. I miss you, Stan and Xeno 😞 

     Senkie: we miss you too mentalist. Xeno’s been working on a project with me and talking with Yuzuriha. Want to see what we have so far?

   Mentalist: um yes!!! Send it my way darling 💜

    Gen received a picture of Senku standing proudly beside his computer with a picture on the screen of a 3D model rocket. Senku and Xeno had big dreams of going to the moon someday, their partners both being well aware of that and nervous to let their lovers go on such a dangerous adventure.

    The magician smiled in his seat, kicking his feet and blushing when he saw how happy his boyfriend looked. His love for science was like his puppy love for Gen. Oftentimes Gen found himself worrying about if Senku loved science more than him. A conversation with Stanley about the insecurities helped Gen lay them to rest, since the older man was in a similar situation with a partner that loved science like Senku did.

    “Did you see what Senku made?” Tsukasa asked, seeing the way Gen reacted made him come to the realization that only one person and their discoveries can make Asagiri Gen react in such a way. Tsukasa had made himself comfortable on that seat, wearing his suit jacket and button up top to go with his slacks and dress shoes for the nice occasion.

    “Yes! Oh, Tsukasa-Chan! He’s just wonderful!” Gen swooned, “I love when he does his science thing.”

    Tsukasa smiled and ran a hand through his hair, like it was his prized lion’s mane, “yeah. I really don’t know how he does it.”

    “Hey, Gen,” Ukyo said, peeking back into the room with an apologetic look plastered across his face, “sorry to cut your conversation short, but bad news. Paparazzi.”

    The omega’s heart sank. No way! They found him? He had to get the hell out of that room before those assholes tripled the amount of people in that banquet. Gen adjusted his scent blocking collars to mask his omegan identity, much like all the other bits and bobs of his vibrant personality. Anything for the stage and attention. Anything to save face, right? Until it came with the price of sucking the life out of the poor omega. 

    “Shit!” Gen gasped, knowing full well he was breaking character. He stood up out of that chair like lightning, shoving his phone into his pocket and tucking his dress shirt back into his pants. If he was about to run, he had to look good. He’d sweat off his makeup if he ran too quickly and he had a boyfriend to keep his looks up for. How else would Gen show Senku his stage presence via FaceTime later in the comfort of his tour bus?  

    The mentalist grabbed his messenger bag, throwing it over his shoulder sloppily and making a swift move for the alleyway outside the studio in the cover of dusk. Stars were appearing in the sky one by one the more the sun set on the horizon.

    Gen chose not to run, settling for a power walk against the breeze that blew back his strands of snowy white colored hair. He heard the distant sounds of the paparazzi on the other side of the building and figured he’d be able to make a mad dash for his well hidden tour bus, rendez-vous with Ukyo and high tail it out of there.

    With a sigh of relief, Gen figured he was safe and able to slow his brisk pace. He desperately scrambled to get his phone out of his pocket and type out a response to Senku’s photo. He could gawk at it as much as he wanted, but only a mentalist like himself could feel what others he knew well were feeling on the other side of the screen. Senku was surely expecting a response before Gen threw in the towel and went to bed for the night after his usual routine of makeup removal, a shower, skincare, a face mask and maybe some tea.

   “Asagiri Gen! Asagiri Gen, famous mentalist, how does being on tour affect your health?”

    Gen’s heart sank in his stomach, a look of anger twisting and turning on his face as the emotions and fright built up. No matter. He could hide it for a million years on a camera. His mom taught him best on how to do that. 

   Still, how did they track him down? Did someone spill the beans to them? He was sure he outmaneuvered them once again.    

    “Hey, Gen! Where were you last night? Sources are saying your boyfriend is on this tour with you! Is that true?”

    More people began to join in on the harassment campaign of the young celebrity.

   “Mr. Gen! Fans are saying across social media that you dissed Jennifer Lawrence! Is this true?” 

    “Asagiri Gen, many are suspecting your omegan identity and a possible pregnancy. Are you pregnant by your mystery alpha?!”

    “Gen! Gen! Can we have your autograph? Many resellers of your autograph are slipping through the cracks nowadays!”

   “Hey, Gen. come stay at my place again!”

   One voice stuck out to the mentalist in particular. Who was that? Oh… right. The deep voice, the heavy footsteps and macho man silhouette. It was Gen’s ex-fling, Magma. His biggest regret of them all. 

    It was instinctual- that “leave me alone!” Gen sang, a cry of desperation in his tone. He was cracking.

    “Everything is canceled tonight! I’m not feeling very well, I’m going to get some rest~!”

     The meet and greet, Gen thought. Those guests probably arrived already . Oh well, he’d issue refunds or reschedule. Now that he saw Magma, he wanted nothing more than to change into his warm pajamas and cuddle with Senku… how he missed his dear Senku…

    The paparazzi hesitated, stopping dead in their tracks as their cameras clicked and fluttered from the snap of every photo directed on Gen. He blew a kiss to the camera, throwing up a peace sign. Gen wasn’t about to lose his cool because of Magma being right there with his phone camera, snapping his photos alongside each braindead paparazzi member.

    “I said leave! My security guards will have to escort you if you don’t listen to me~ or maybe, I’ll hypnotize you!” Gen giggled, waving his hand off, “bye-bye, now! Not answering any questions!”

      The paparazzi, with defeated sighs and annoyed groans, all walked away together in cliques. They whispered amongst each other like politicians and powered down their cameras when they didn’t get the answers they wanted from poor Gen. Since his childhood, Gen was harassed and wrung dry with questions and photos from the paparazzi. He had his overbearing and money hungry parents to thank for that. Well, his former parents- his new parents were Stanley and Xeno Wingfield-Snyder. They took him in, treated him as their own and gave him a feeling in his heart he never felt before. The love of a parent was alien to Gen until the first time Stanley ever hugged him. He’d never forget that day…

     “GEN!” Magma shouted, emerging from the paparazzi crowd and walking the opposite direction of them. He was always a rebel like that- trying desperately to win the magician’s heart. 

     Gen had long since turned around to continue his walk to the tour bus. Just ignore him, don’t make eye contact -  

    Magma’s hand was massive compared to Gen’s shoulder. The mentalist couldn’t fight him off even if he tried. Pepper Spray felt like lightyears away in the front pocket of the bag. Well, he’d have to play it cool and swindle Magma with his words. Wrap him around his finger, twist and manipulate him any way that he could. Magma was so feeble minded and easy to deal with. This would be a test run for Gen.

    The mentalist felt a pang in his heart when his phone vibration came from his pocket. Bingo. He’d call for the police if Magma did something. But by then, it may have been too late. They’d find his sexually assaulted, mutilated corpse-

    “Gen! Answer me! Where have you been?” Magma blared. Even his speaking voice was loud and obnoxious.

    “Oh, Magma-Chan! How ‘ude-ray! I’ve been with the same man for three years!” Gen gasped, putting a hand to his heart as if he was actually offended- as if was right! Magma could kiss his ass.

    “So it’s really done then, huh?” Magma asked. His obnoxious voice went from the screeching banshee level to an inside voice. It startled the much smaller omega. Still, Gen wouldn’t fall from his grace into submission that easily.

    “Mhmm~” Gen hummed, a sly smile on his face with lots to hide.

    “My alpha is soooo big and strong ! Magma, how could I ever dream of replacing you ?” Gen began, Magma’s expression changing from serious to completely confused. Who was dumb enough to fall for Gen’s surface level easy mode tricks other than this meathead alpha?

     Magma’s other hand trailed down to Gen’s waist where his wider hips were. It sent shivers up the spine of the still calm, cool and collected omega. At least, on the outside. 

    Inside, mentally? Gen? His mental health… right.

    Magma was violating the omega in a way that he could’ve seen coming when they were briefly together. Even with a simple touch, Magma was ripping parts of Gen from Senku that he worked desperately hard to protect. 

    “Magma! Oh, please, not right here~” Gen cooed, lifting Magma’s chin with his index finger, “I’m simply trying to go take off my makeup and unwind for the evening! And look good for my boyfriend back home~”

    “Hahaha! Like I’d let you leave without another quickie! Come on, like good old times,” Magma laughed, sliding his hand down to Gen’s ass, “right here and now. I’ll kill ya if you don’t!”

    Magma’s usual teasing sounded more ominous and threatening with the parting of ways those two decided to make many moons ago. Gen had to be careful with how he spoke to Magma.

    Gen was panicking. What the hell was he supposed to do? Magma could take him then and there. The talking Magma down approach and letting him down nicely wasn’t working. What else could he do…?

    Gen had to act, and if Senku was there at that moment, he’d hate him forever.

    The mentalist currently off duty threw his arms around Magma’s neck, pressing his body against the bigger alpha’s. He’d play the role of cute fuckboy to weasel out of that mess!

     “Oh, Magma-Chan… if only you knew. If you fuck around with a mentalist…” Gen whispered in his ear.

    Magma was aroused and laughing under his breath. Goddamn, was Gen hot. What a catch that magician was! He would make sure Gen gave him a litter of pups. Tons of them.

    “-You'll find out.” Gen finished. That final fragment of his sentence was all he needed for his knee to collide with Magma’s crotch. He sent the alpha into a world of pain he had never seen before, making him keel over and hitch his breath as the pain shot up his nervous system. 

    “GEEEEN!” Magma shouted. The dual colored haired weasel of a mentalist was running off with the keys to the tour bus like he was prancing through a field of flowers on a sunny day.   

    Magma wasn’t giving up, however, seeing his omega of the night get away to some other alpha he wasn’t even mates with. The rage in Magma gave him the adrenaline he needed to catch up to Gen, running through the parking garage across from the studio and to his tour bus. 

    Gen noticed Magma and picked up his pace, sprinting through the echoey parking garage. Each footstep from them both bounced off the walls of the vast and empty space, with no cars parked there as the show had long since ended.

   Which meant he was alone. As alone as he got. Gen had to fend for himself if Magma actually did something- and by the way he was running towards him, it wasn’t looking good. Gen had to get ready to fight for his life. Not again . 

    “Magma, don’t!” Gen shouted, a nervous grin as he laughed, “come on! I was just… I was kidding! No, wait-!”

    Magma caught up to Gen, his athleticism really shining so his fist could collide with Gen’s face. He swung another punch, landing it right in the stomach of the omega. Gen fell to the ground clutching his stomach, whimpering and crying of pain. He put a shaky hand up to his ex, like he was a flower in the breeze of his stage, ready for the next act. Only this was real- Gen was in true danger.

     Magma cracked his knuckles and stood over Gen like a murderous animal toying with its catch. He seemed to have been glad to knock him down several rungs of the ladder of lies and masks he created. The grin on his face… the veins in his arms and wrinkles of anger and satisfaction both painting his face.

    “Hey!” A voice shouted from the other side of the parking lot, “stop! STOP!” 

    Gen was saved. A giant forming bruise, bloody nose and all. Ukyo had come to his rescue, accompanied by his security guard- an alpha that Gen knew much better equipped than Magma himself. 

    “Leave the premises! Now!” Ukyo ordered, “or I’ll call the police. You’ve already committed a crime against a celebrity just trying to get home!”

    Magma laughed upon seeing the scrawny Ukyo. His demeanor changed entirely seeing the big security guard, who was really just Gen and Senku’s good friend, Tsukasa Shishio in a fancy outfit for the show that night. Tsukasa was simply on his phone backstage when Ukyo asked him to walk out to the parking garage together and meet up with Gen. 

    “Screw you guys, then. A man can’t get a good lay with his omega anywhere, huh.”

    Magma sighed in defeat. He turned and sprinted off to his sports car parked on another level of the parking garage. He didn’t totally get what he wanted but he’d surely be leaving there feeling satisfied with himself after hurting Gen just for not sleeping with him.

   “N-not your omega, Magma-Chan!” Gen shouted after him. Ukyo and Tsukasa had long since dashed to his aid to see his wounds. A bruise to the belly, cheek and blood from his nose was enough to send him home for the night. Gen was… somewhat glad that Magma had given him an actual reason to lay low for the night.

    What a long tour it was going to be.

~

     4:18 AM, Magician and Mentalist Gen Asagiri

    Car headlights illuminated the parking lot and lower level of the apartment building he knew so well. A very spur of the moment decision was made that evening in the tour bus- a decision Gen made to the dismay of his entire team. He needed to see Senku. He needed his alpha to comfort him and tell him he’d be okay, that no one else was going to hurt him ever again. That he loved Gen through it all and would marry him one day.

     The memories Gen made in that apartment with Senku were so abundant, like everything he ever pulled out of a hat on stage. It was random, beautiful, funny, jaw-dropping- everything. The night they lost power during a monsoon storm and Senku created a light in his lab to illuminate the whole house. The first time that Gen, Senku, Taiju and Yuzuriha ever got drunk together and played Mario party happened in that house. Several shared heats and ruts piled on years later left Gen pulling up to Senku’s apartment at 4 in the morning. All the pieces fell into place for that day to happen.

    Gen parked his car beside the one that belonged to Yuzuriha, which was parked beside Taiju’s car. Senku’s was there, too- that observation alone comforted the omega more than anything. 

     The omegan magician left his car and went up the stairs to the apartment he had stayed at countless times to be with his boyfriend. He rummaged through the pockets of his shorts for the key he had been entrusted by Senku, opening the door with it to reveal an expectedly very quiet apartment. No yelling of Taiju during his exercises. No sewing machine noises from Yuzuriha, and not even any clanking of glass from beakers from Senku. The peace of nighttime seemed to reach the small home of the science trio. 

   Gen went down the small hallway to Senku’s area of the home, approaching his bedroom door. What a sight for sore eyes Gen was- a swollen bruise on his cheek and his stomach from Magma were a lovely purple color to match his shorts. Maybe that could be his next fashion statement on stage.

    The mentalist opened the door of Senku’s bedroom and saw what he could only describe as the cutest thing he ever laid his blue eyes on. Senku, curled up under his rocket-patterned blue comforter and snoring quietly. His hair was a mess of up and down, and one sock had slid off his left foot as he slept. 

    The scientist stirred when his bedroom door was open, like one of his colleagues from university had gotten his attention in a dream.

    “Senku-Chan~” Gen whispered, tiptoeing to the bed like he was in a minefield, “Senkie, I’m here~” 

     Senku’s breath hitched and he rubbed his eye with his hand, turning over in bed to face Gen. It must've been a subconscious movement to turn and face the man he always slept beside when they were together. Life often ripped them apart when Gen was on tour, he was tired of it. Gen wanted to settle down with Senku eventually, move in together and maybe even have some pups of their own. 

     Gen was admiring the beauty of his boyfriend in comfortable silence. He was watching the rise and fall of Senku’s body with every breath he took until the house of cards that was Gen’s realization crashed down by a breath of reality. He was being so creepy ! 

    “Senku!” Gen yelped to remove himself from his overthinking, “please wake up!”

     Senku promptly woke up in response to the volume increase. He looked startled- not expecting a guest so early in the morning, especially on a night he actually slept! He was still stuck in his school routine of sleeping a full night every other night to be on top of his studies. How else was he to get into JAXA? 

      The scientist was trying to adjust his eyesight to see who or what was there. He heard Gen’s voice and that certainly wasn’t in his dream. The omega was knelt there before him, hand on Senku’s hip from when he was asleep. Whatever reason Gen was there- it must’ve been a major one. The alpha wrapped his arms around Gen slowly, sighing. He held the two toned colored head against his chest. 

     “Mentalist…” Senku said, sleep in his voice, yet still with it enough to see the bruise on Gen’s face, “tell me what’s going on.”

He knew Gen well enough to know that he wasn’t okay- the once proper magician on tour was taking an emergency detour to go see his beloved boyfriend. The bruise from his bloody nose after the encounter with Magma was enough to tell him that.

     “Senku-Chan… it’s been such an ‘ong-lay, dragging tour…~” Gen said with a smile, bags under his eyes. He crawled on the bed, sitting in front of Senku so he could lay his head between the legs of the alpha. Senku put a hand on Gen’s head, feeling his soft hair. Even after over two years of dating, Gen could feel the anxiety from Senku’s touch- he wasn’t a lover type of guy, and still, he did it for Gen’s sake, to comfort him, and himself. Touching Gen gave Senku a sense of security. Like he was untouchable and nothing else mattered, except the two of them, in that moment, the here and now.

    “You wanna tell me about it? Anyone I need to send to Mars?” Senku joked in a husky, deep and sleep filled voice, his red ruby eyes going to Gen’s nose as if to ask, who did this? His conniving grin tugging at his lips. Gen looked up at him with innocence in his blue eyes, like he wanted to be babied by his boyfriend. Senku played with the long piece of white hair that always framed Gen’s angel sculpted face.

    Gen swallowed nervously, he had big puppy eyes, pleading to be babied before he said what he had to say. Senku softly smiled, sighing. He could read Gen like a book after dating him. Through all the masks, Senku saw through each of them and to who Gen truly was. The green haired alpha pulled Gen up from under his arms, holding him against his body. He slid his hand up Gen’s shirt and began to rub his back in circles, scratching it and massaging Gen to let him know he was loved and valued.

     “Senku-Chan… today, we were supposed to do a meet and greet, and- oh my gosh!” Gen gasped, his head darting up from Senku’s lap. The sudden shift in his mood sent Senku into alert mode as well, the two looking at each other with wide eyes, a blue and red exchange of eyes.

     “They’ll be bashing me all over social media! Oh, dear, my career is tarnished!” Gen cried dramatically, rolling onto his back in Senku’s lap and covering his face with his hands. Was it a partial ploy for Senku’s attention? Just maybe, but part of it was genuine- Gen was going to get slammed , and dragged through the mud by his fringe on his Twitter. 

     Senku, upon finding out what was upsetting Gen, sighed in annoyance at the dramatics. He ran his free hand through his mess of a hair. Gen’s scent was ever abundant to Senku, its sudden shift alarming to the alpha all the same.

     “And here I thought you murdered someone with your manager. Gen, who cares? Let them, they’re all illogical and have nothing better to do with their time. And, it’s just as illogical for you to engage in that over spending time with me,” Senku assured Gen, keeping his tone more logical than ever, then smirking, “and if you wanted my undivided support, you could’ve just said.”

    Gen went from a tender smile to a look of “he got me again”, shock. His wide blue eyes met Senku’s once again, and he quickly averted his gaze to the wall with a poster containing a rocket from NASA on it.

     “You got me! Senku-Chan, you really know me so well~” 

     “Yup. Now keep it down, Taiju and Yuzuriha are sleeping,” Senku said, leaning down to close the distance from himself and Gen- leaving a mere few centimeters between the two of them. Gen blushed, letting out a small giggle and puckering up his lips. Even without realizing, Senku was so romantic when he wanted to be.

     Senku put a finger against Gen’s lips to re-adjust his positioning so he was no longer supporting the omega’s head in his lap, and rather was on top of him, with Gen between his legs. Then he made for the move, leaning in and kissing Gen like they always did- making out in Senku’s bed was a normal thing for them when Gen stayed over. 

    The omega was getting aroused quickly as Senku took control of the kiss (Gen allowing him and giving in was the first red flag). Senku moved his tongue into Gen’s mouth, grabbed his thigh with his hand and lifted it to his waist. Gen’s slick scent and kissing style was still off to Senku… there was something Gen wasn’t telling him.

     So, naturally, Senku pulled away to get a true answer as opposed to making a thousand hypotheses. 

     “Now tell me what happened to your nose,” Senku said nonchalantly, towering over Gen with sweat and blush painting his face. Even in the dark with only a tinge of rising sun to show him off, Gen saw him perfectly.

     Gen knew he could trust Senku with anything. He trusted that alpha with his life, and he could count the number of alphas he trusted that much on one hand- Senku being the most. He wanted pups someday with this alpha above him, he had to trust Mr. Right. So, Gen broke that silence with a response of distress.

     The magician looked away with a blush and the back of his hand covering his mouth, “P-paparazzi… and.. M-Magma… they harassed me… and he… Senku-Chan, he touched me. He hit me, a-and..-“

      Senku had to resist his second gender’s instincts. He hated being an alpha, it made a lot of people possessive and violent. He saw how Kohaku beat up a drunk alpha for hitting on Amaryllis and only got away with it because Chrome was a good driver. He wanted to pummel this Magma person and knew he couldn’t- Senku wasn’t like most alphas, he wasn’t crazy strong or possessive to the point of even threatening someone violence. He handled things logically, kept a level head and fought back in his own ways. Perhaps that’s part of why Gen was so attracted to him, Senku was so unapologetically himself. 

      Senku reminded himself that if Stanley and Xeno swapped second genders, that Xeno would be just like him; a logical pacifist who loved his omega like Senku did. But unfortunately, Senku and Xeno were cursed to not have everything in common- their second gender difference being the biggest one.

     Still, in a moment like this, Senku so desperately wished he was strong enough to whoop another alpha’s ass for touching his omega. He had to stay logical and levelheaded and dance around the alpha instincts that made all of them possessive.

     “Are you okay? I mean, he didn’t hurt you badly, did he? He didn’t… uh… have his way with you, did he…?” Senku asked. He lifted Gen’s shirt to inspect his waist and stomach- no bruises or cuts. That was a good sign.

      “No… thank goodness,” Gen sighed, “but it felt so wrong.. trying to… get him off me, by using reverse psychology… and.. I kneed his balls, ran, and… he caught up, hit me, a-and.. I’m sorry! I shouldn’t have indulged him, I-I”

       Senku snorted, interrupting Gen, “heheh! If you’re worried about cheating on me, mentalist, you didn’t, and did what you had to do, even if it wasn’t what I would’ve necessarily done. I trust you. You’re no moron like he is.”

      Gen so badly had words for his boyfriend like ‘if you mated me, they’d know to leave me alone ’, or ‘ I could’ve still handled it differently, right ?’. The guilt ate him up from the inside out. Yet, the trust Senku had in him was… beautiful, really. Like he truly loved him and valued Gen even if he chose to flirt to get himself out of situations like that. It was a survival technique of his.

      “Th-thank you, Senku-Chan… so ‘omantic-ray of you to say that~” Gen purred, lifting Senku’s chin with his index finger, “your trust in me is so… beautiful.”

     Senku smiled. The beaming, kind, genuine smile he saved for the people closest to him. It was like a light came from his face and illuminated the entire room around the two lovers.

      “I wouldn’t trust anyone else. I’d say you’ve earned it,” Senku replied, “no matter what, always come to me for something like that. Even at four in the morning.”

     Gen blushed and cupped Senku’s face with his hands, Senku’s fingers between the white hairs of his fringe. The moment was so intense and romantic, like a game of chess to see who would make the first big move and get the ball rolling. And like Newton's law, once an object was in motion, it stayed in motion.

      “Then mate me, Senku-Chan~” Gen replied, desperate, pleading and dramatic, “I’ve always wanted this. I knew you’d be the one. It’s been… hmm… how long?”

       “Three years in two months, five days and ten hours,” Senku replied, licking his lips, “and I’d be happy to. It seems only logical to keep ya around, mentalist. It helps my dopamine levels.”

      Gen gasped, covering his mouth with his hands. Senku was about to do it?! No way, he was mostly joking! His boyfriend usually told him to wait longer for when he was ready, and Gen was perfectly okay with that answer. It felt like he took his first step on the moon with Senku, and now he may get to do that if they were mates for life. He always envied that in Stanley and Xeno- seeing Xeno’s claim mark made him long for that from Senku, like Rapunzel waiting for her Prince, he’d wait several lifetimes to be Senku’s omega forever. To wake up beside him every day, wear wedding rings, kiss each other good morning and good night, and give him pups- Gen could dream on and on. 

     “Senku… you’d… you’d really do it?” Gen asked, breathless. What a drastic turn of events his day was.

     “Yeah. Who else would I go to these lengths for?” Senku smirked, “come on, give me your neck.”

      Gen huffed. There was one small issue, and he couldn’t ignore it.

      “D-don’t treat this like we’re about to hug, okay? This is ‘erious-say!” Gen exclaimed, whisper-shouting, “you’re about to mate me and I’m about to mate you! Let’s.., get excited!”

     Senku blinked, flabbergasted, “alright. Are you asking me to proclaim my undying love for you, mentalist?”

     The alpha took off his shirt, licking his lips and popping his sharp teeth out to bite down on Gen’s neck. Gen began to rapidly nod with a cherry red blush seeing Senku’s gorgeous slightly toned abs and chest (he did lots of heavy lifting in the lab and for the rocket projects with Xeno).

      “Okay…” Senku clicked his tongue, “Asagiri Gen, I love you as much as black holes love space junk and meteors, as much as the stars love the mo- ugh. I could keel over and die.”

       Gen bursted into a fit of laughter, throwing his head on the pillows. Senku was a horrible Shakespeare caricature.

      “St-stop! Enough!” Gen laughed, “I can’t… Senku-Chan! You’re so corny!”

      “With pleasure. C’mere, your majesty,” Senku said with a smirk, cupping his hands on Gen by his jaw with both to make him feel safe and comfortable while sitting in his lap in the middle of the bed, “I’m gonna do it now, okay?” 

      “Okay~ make me yours, darling,” Gen sighed, putting an arm over his head and exposing his neck with his free hand. It was really happening! His heart was pounding like it did when he set foot on stage for the first time. The feeling was indescribable, it was an adrenaline high he loved getting his dirty paws on.

       Gen prepared himself for what was to come. Little did he know, that would include himself. Senku leaned over Gen, pressing their bodies together for such an intimate moment to quickly kiss him and then plunge his teeth into the omega’s neck. For an omega, mating was always more painful yet also arousing. He practically barged into his precious Senku’s house and next thing he knew, they were mated! Gen moaned out in pleasure and pain, his eyes opening quickly from the pain. Slick was quickly dripping down between the heat of his legs, the scent intoxicating to Senku. His breath had hitched from getting the whiff of the scent and he was hardening against Gen’s body. 

     Senku remembered the smell of Gen’s slick like the periodic table and this time around he simply couldn’t take it. He was harder than a rock within a few minutes of claiming Gen. Fresh blood trickled down his neck from the teeth marks, Senku watching it with pride and awe. It happened.. he did it. Was this how it was going to feel when he finished his rocket project with Xeno? Even in the current day, Senku was shocked he could fall in love with someone like Gen. His polar opposite- and still managed to capture his heart and shove it up his sleeve with his other tricks.

     “Senku… Senku-Chan~” Gen panted, Senku obeying what his omega had implied by baring his neck to him. The alpha was fiddling with the waistband of his basketball shorts in desperation to fuck his newly claimed omega. Gen hadn’t even gotten his chance to mate Senku back. Gen stopped Senku by grabbing his wrist before the alpha instincts overtook him, and made eye contact.

      “Let me…” Gen began, popping out his smaller teeth to give an omegan bite of less power but a fair amount of potency. He went for the crook of Senku’s neck, right where his own was located and sunk his teeth into the alpha’s pale skin. 

     “Ngh… M-mentalist..” Senku grunted, teeth gritted and eyes closed from pain and pleasure filling his body. His knees felt like jelly and his stomach had butterflies as Gen licked the blood and traced his finger down Senku’s bare chest, to his navel and right to the waistband of his shorts.

      “Senku… Senku… we’re..”

      “Yeah. Th-that’s right,” Senku replied, softly smiling at Gen when the omega was pulling down his shorts and boxers. His erection popped right out into Gen’s face, leaking precum all over the sheets. Oh well, the cleanup would be worth it after the first sex they’d have as mates. He couldn’t wait to spend the rest of his life with Senku and only him. 

    Gen shyly lifted off his own shirt, revealing what had happened to his belly earlier. He was nervous before, but now he was a wreck. Senku did what any good boyfriend would do and pushed Gen down on the bed, getting on top of him. Even while erect and in the spicy mood, Senku wound use science to determine if Gen was truly okay before doing anything with him. He had to ensure his omega was protected. Call it instincts of an alpha or just being a good person- Senku didn’t care, he knew it was the right thing to do.

    “No internal bleeds, broken bones, or infection,” Senku began, palpating and pressing the pads of his fingers into Gen’s belly, “your belly is soft and non-tender, which is a good sign as well, mentalist. I’d say you’ll be just fine. Just a purple bruise that looks worse than it is.”

     Gen was completely starstruck watching his boyfriend, seeing the cogs and gears turn within his head. The spontaneity of the moment was not ruined whatsoever; Senku showed he truly loved Gen by using science to help him. It turned on the magician beneath the dorky scientist.

     “Then shall we continue~?” Gen cooed, cupping Senku’s face and pulling at his chin to bring him up for a kiss. The two began making out within seconds, Senku’s hands all over Gen, Gen’s fingers down Senku’s back as they grinded together and began foreplay for the night of fun as mates.

    As for Senku, seeing Gen and mating him was one hell of a way to start up his day, especially at that hour. And yet, that young alpha wouldn’t trade it for the world. They made love in Senku’s bed for hours, until Taiju and Yuzuriha began to worry when Senku didn’t show up for breakfast at 8. They heard those soft sounds from Senku’s bedroom and the creaking of the bed, spotting Gen’s car in the parking lot only meant one thing. Senku was pampering Gen that night for more reasons than one- the poor magician was harassed out of his parking lot and bruised up, so his alpha took matters into his own hands. No one could have Gen except for Senku.

     “Hey, Taiju. Let’s eat in the living room,” Yuzuriha suggested, nervously smiling.

     Taiju looked up from the stove and back at his girlfriend, “huh? Why?”

      “Gen’s here,” she replied, “when he’s supposed to be on tour.”
     Taiju looked confused until she made a gesture with her hands that demonstrated a sinful act. Taiju gasped, snatching the two plates of food and scurrying to the living room with his tail between his legs as if he and Yuzhurha didn’t do the exact same thing in their spare time.

     Yuzuriha glanced over down the hall towards Senku’s bedroom, catching whiffs of an unusual scent of an omega that was claimed. She knew the feeling when Taiju claimed her, which was only a few four months ago. 

     The omega ran over to the door and knocked, “congratulations, Senku and Gen! Breakfast is ready when you want it!” 

     The smile in Yuzuriha’s voice could be heard by the two and a gasp came from Senku, and a squeak from Gen. Senku said something under his breath as he huffed to catch up his breathing.

      “Nosy,” Senku called, “be out in a half hour.”

     Yuzuriha giggled to herself, “I could smell it. You two enjoy.”

Chapter Text

Hi everyone! I wanted to share with you all some sketches I made before writing this involving my A/B/O AU of Stanxeno. Obviously they aren’t done and not fully polished due to my art block but I hope you all enjoy them regardless while I’ve been scarcely working on chapters and playing Bloodborne and Dark Souls 3. 🧡 More to come soon!

Xeno :)

Stanley!

Senku and Xeno!

Chapter Text

    7 weeks later

   7 more weeks flew by for Stanley and Xeno, much like it did for everyone else, besides Senku and Gen. It was a brutal week of finals and showbiz for the beloved two kids of Byakuya, Lillian, Stanley and Xeno. During those grueling weeks of work, Gen was especially hardly heard from during those several weeks of a small tour he was doing.

    Xeno had finally hit the 13 week mark of pregnancy, meaning the gender of his pup was soon to be confirmed. The past seven weeks were absolute agony for the omega. Bedridden, throwing up, and incredibly sick. Sicker than Stanley had ever seen him, that was for sure! Some nights Stanley simply couldn’t stay asleep because of the worry that overtook him. What if he had to rush Xeno to the hospital? Was he losing the pup? The new parents were constantly worried, Xeno texting Yuzuriha about any new symptoms that made him feel like he was dying.

    Xeno had gotten into contact with Yuzuriha, the omegan midwife student, rather quickly- and she was elated to have him as a test run of what a high risk pregnancy was like. Carefully picking and choosing food, a strict medication regimen, and having his alpha around as much as possible to do the handy labor like cooking and cleaning. On one instance, Xeno had texted Yuzuriha that his legs looked like “the inelegant, overworked balloon battery of faulty device ready to explode”. Yuzuriha told him that leg swelling was normal and to elevate his legs, have Stanley give him massages and use ice packs. 

   The alpha took it upon himself to care for Xeno once he got the confirmation from his doctor (thanks to Xeno’s scolding) to be back on his feet. Xeno had gotten heavier, his chest had grown and his baby bump would peek out to show like someone peered around the corner of a dark alleyway. Stanley saw the pregnancy glow on his omega even with how sick he was. His blood pressure had skyrocketed, his face was pale, his legs would swell, and even through all that- Xeno was gorgeous .

    With the strength of an ox, Stanley made it to every single appointment for Xeno and the pup, driving them there every time. He sported that brace for several weeks and still wore it on occasion for his ankle. The alpha also had a scar along his stomach from the wound he received on the battlefield. It would also be his last fight, as Stanley made a commitment to doing online classes and get his degree. That marksman was more determined than ever to make a life for himself and be a father. So help anyone who would get in his way, they’d need it . 

    Stanley still made sure to keep up with his sniping by picking up shady gigs for money while he was in online school. Once in a while, he’d pop a bullet in a rich guy’s head for a load of cash. Stanley used to do that sort of thing in the dark ages of his life and only picked it back up so he could have income for his omega and pup. On that particular day, Stanley was off on an adventure of several errands. It was approximately midnight, his pregnant omega sound asleep at home. Xeno knew exactly what his husband was up to and to quote him verbatim, “ I don’t care, as long as the baby and I can eat and you don’t get us in trouble with the law again. Be smart, elegant and logical, my knight. I shall await your return ”. Stanley took that as the green light to do whatever he had to do to make money, swarmed by memories of their rail gun incident as kids and promptly getting arrested. He knew how to hide it from the government; he had done it before in the past, what’s a few more sniper gigs? Even so, it was hard enough to find English speakers who needed a hitman in Japan. 

    That was the night before the day they’d find the gender of their little pup. They even had a new OB nurse that they would be meeting that day- (their old one was quite rude) named Ruri. She was a friend of Senku’s and dating his best friend, Chrome. She was an experienced nurse and agreed to take Yuzuriha under her wing to monitor Xeno’s pregnancy and educate the parents-to-be. 

      Of course, the news was nothing short of exciting to Stanley. But of course, every beautiful sun and its light had the darkness of the moon and night sky. The night before the festivities called for Stanley. 

     The former Marine would meet up with yet another client to strike a deal for a hitman job. It was pushing midnight, so Xeno was surely fast asleep at home. He could use the rest, that poor omega had been through enough. That particular day, Xeno left bed to have meals with Stanley, watch a movie with him snuggled up on the couch and use the bathroom. Stanley had always pushed for Xeno to not rot away in bed and encouraged him to spend quality time together before they became parents and had to lock their focus solely on their pup.

  ~

     Stanley had purposely taken off his license plate on his truck that evening before he tucked Xeno into bed, the omega had joined him outside for the project and was asking him incessantly just what the hell he was doing by taking a screwdriver to his nice truck. The alpha got a kick out of that, and told Xeno everything . 

     The young girl in question that had contacted him seemed very sweet. In fact, she was no stranger to Stanley, it was the omega of Senku’s good friend from college, Kohaku: Amaryllis. She needed a favor from a professional and with a good wad of cash for him, she wanted Stanley to pop a bullet into the head of the crooked, rich alpha ex-boyfriend of hers who took advantage of her, abused her, and stole her jewelry to pawn it off. It was quite the sad story, Xeno seemed bashful, worried and shy when told because he worried about Stanley being around other omegas alone. Not because he didn’t trust his husband, but because he didn’t trust other omegas. They had been married for so long, Xeno knew nothing would happen…it was certainly the hormones talking for him and making him worry about every little thing, like the smallest bolt in a piece of metal going to a rocket. Stanley knew it was hormones, Xeno knew it… yet still, Xeno’s pregnancy made him worry excessively, cry, crave and have the most inelegant mood swings. 

    Stanley continued his drive down the dirt path to this young girl’s suggested meetup area. Her grandfather owned a house in the woods where he stayed for the summertime, and he wasn’t in Japan just yet, giving Stanley and Amaryllis the perfect chance to meet. Cigarettes were practically begging for him like Xeno did when on his back beneath him, so Stanley did what any logical thing a person would do and cracked open his new pack of cigarettes, popping one between his black painted lips. He missed that life- the old life of Stanley Snyder before he was injured, and now he was more than grateful to be living it again- eyeliner, mascara and hair gel galore.

     The alpha was met with a cutesy little red car plastered in bumper stickers in the dirt driveway, noting that the headlights were off. She couldn’t exactly attract attention to herself and her whereabouts when a murder was going to happen that night. 

      Amaryllis, noticing her hitman had arrived, stepped out of her car in a blue jacket that hugged her waist and a fancy black pleated skirt, completed with black tights and black heeled boots. She wore a scent blocking blue leather collar to help mask any trace of her at the scene. She was undeniably a pretty girl, but Stanley’s heart was already claimed.

    The young girl approached the truck and waved to the alpha to get him to roll down his window. She greeted him with a smile. She seemed so innocent, yet she was paying this man to kill her ex.

    “Mr. Stanley?” Amaryllis asked, “if you aren’t Mr. Stanley… please leave! He’s my… my-“

    Amaryllis seemed to have a cover story to go right alongside her innocent, good girl persona. She was acting to make sure this was her guy.

    “He’s my date!” She gushed, a pink blush painting her cheeks as she cupped her face like an angel flew down from heaven to walk on earth, leaving a trail of flowers amidst her path.

    “Is that right?” Stanley asked, puffing out a cloud of smoke, amused. A shit eating smirk painted his face.

    Amaryllis nodded with determination and confidence. She was quickly silenced when Stanley presented a wedding ring on his left hand, the same ring he had shown her in his messages as to how to identify him (along with his lipstick shade and dog tags).

    “Wrong guy to ask on a date, sorry. Married for over 5 years,” Stanley replied, Amaryllis sighing a huge heave of relief. She finally dropped the persona as she went to her business and serious side like the flip of a lightswitch. Her once soft eyes shifted to narrowed, cold hearted and calculated. 

    “Glad to hear it. I was about tired of keeping up that front,” she replied, holding her hand out, “very nice to meet you, Mr. Snyder. Tell me about Senku and my girlfriend.”

     Ah, the security question. Stanley was awaiting this one. 

     “The leek kid I live next door to, and his alpha friend he goes to college with. The one with the blonde hair.”

     “Perfect,” Amaryllis replied, “can I come in your truck? I’ll take you exactly where he is.”

    Stanley would be lying if he didnt think Amaryllis looked like a great criminal mastermind in the making, a cute evil smirk on her face. If she was a foot taller, muscular and with shorter hair, Stanley might’ve been able to say she was scary. Maybe .

    “Come on in,” Stanley said, unlocking his truck doors and letting the girl step in. He had a picture of his unborn pup’s ultrasound clipped on the slider above the seats, along with a photo of Xeno at one of his NASA conventions holding a golden trophy, beaming a huge smile. Amaryllis softened up when she saw the pictures and what they entailed.

    “Is this your omega?” Amaryllis asked, pointing to the picture of Xeno, “your husband, I mean- uh- sorry to intrude! N-Nevermind!”

     Amaryllis’s fear of Stanley was slipping through the cracks. After all, he was the one with the gun. Stanley didn’t see her as a problem, she knew Senku after all.

    “Yeah, that’s him,” Stanley replied, keeping his eyes on the road while he pulled out of the driveway, “and my kid. That one’s from a week ago.”

     Before Amaryllis could say anything else, Stanley snatched both photos from the clip and put them in the pocket of his leather jacket. He couldn’t have anyone seeing a picture of Xeno and the ultrasound- or they could track him down, assuming he’s a pregnant omega and kill him.

     Amaryllis was surprised at the swiftness of Stanley’s motion but understood why he did what he did, “good idea.”

     “Mm,” Stanley replied, taking a big drag of his cigarette.

     There was a silence that filled the car, only patched with the occasional exhale of Stanley smoking his cigarette. Amaryllis looked deep in thought, resting her chin on her hand.

     “Didn't your husband mentor Senku? That’s what Kohaku told me, I-I mean,” Amaryllis said, attempting to start small talk. 

     “Yeah,” Stanley replied, “he still does.”

     The alpha earned a smile from the young omega, “that’s so sweet.”

12:54 AM, Former USMC Captain Stanley Snyder 

    The site of the supposed execution was somewhere Stanley expected any lousy, stuck up asshole to be: a swanky luxury mansion on the outskirts of a nearby city. The drive was about a half hour, the scenery being quite beautiful, like an enchanted forest with a tinge of modernity. Woodsy, quiet and spaced out mansions littered the road. Each home looked more gorgeous than the last. Still, Stanley wouldn’t be happy living in a house like that. He could appreciate the results of a rich person’s greed from afar. 

     Stanley got a hand gesture from Amaryllis to go off their path and park his truck beside the forest area just out of sight of the house. His headlights had long since been shut off to protect their cover. 

      “Describe this guy to me again,” Stanley said, taking out a new cigarette and pulling his lighter out of the pockets of his tight black leather jeans, only complimented by his black leather jacket, boots, leather gloves and T-shirt underneath. Xeno called him a man whore at times and Stanley really wasn’t doing much to dispute the accusations. 

      “Tall, muscular, fair complexion with a tan. Dark hair in dreadlocks. Brown eyes, male, early to mid twenties,” Amaryllis explained, like she had this pre-prepared for her hero hitman. Amaryllis admired just how badass Stanley really looked- a guy, let alone an alpha, in a full face of makeup with his sniper rifle in the backseat and pictures of his omega to show off to the world. 

      “That’s all I need,” Stanley replied, cold and deadpan. He was strictly business, in his element and about to wave his magic wand.

     The alpha stepped out of his driver seat, spotting the cream yellow colored mansion with lights illuminating the dew in the midnight grass. The pool peeking around the open fence had rainbow lights sparking more energy for any swimming partygoers, and the blaring music added ten billion points to the ambience.

      “One helluva party,” Stanley muttered to himself once he grabbed his second love after Xeno and his pup- his rifle. 

      “Most definitely. Moz is best friends with the host, you see,” Amaryllis explained, “I dated him for six months! We only did stuff together a couple times and he just… ugh!”

      Amaryllis paused when she realized she was venting and got even more flustered, burying her face in her hands when the realization of what she was doing came to fruition. She was venting to the guy she was paying to kill her ex. 

      Stanley’s eyes went wide and he paused the fiddling of the safety check on his rifle. He almost dropped his precious cigarette, his fingers reflexively going to hold it between his painted lips. What was that asshole’s name again? It sounded oddly… familiar . Where has he heard it before? 

      “Sorry, what did you say his name was?” Stanley asked, even more cold and serious than before. His voice sent chills up the spine of poor Amaryllis. She stuttered out a response after a painful moment of silence.

     “M-Moz. He… he’s an alpha and a member of the Yakuza . Yeah. Crazy, I know. He h-hunts soldiers in the m-militaries of other countries,” Amaryllis explained, looking ashamed to have given this man the time of day. She thought she could help him, she really did.

     “He thought he was so cool for stabbing a Captain of the Marines for… I think the United States, the country you're from, r-right? Regardless, he’s a loser!”  

    There was a moment of silence coming from Stanley. His hair covered his face, teeth gritting into the cigarette leaving grooves of hurt and anger. So this was the fucker that tried to take his life? He dared to rip Stanley from Xeno and his pup? Stanley didn't want to shoot this guy from afar, he wanted to see him face-to-face and fight him like a true marine would. Show no mercy.

    Stanley turned right around to meet Amaryllis, his precious rifle sitting in the back seat of his truck. He had the look of murder in his ice blue eyes, fists clenched to crush anyone’s skull. Amaryllis was speechless, standing with submission from intimidation- her arms crossed over her waist as a subconscious method of protection. The alpha’s strong scent of evergreen emotions snuck through the seams of that collar he wore around his neck. She had to remind herself: Senku trusted this alpha. He couldn’t possibly be dangerous- at least, not to her. If he was- Kohaku wouldn’t permit her to be there alone in the first place. 

      Stanley yanked up his shirt to show his toned muscular stomach, with a giant vertical scar above his navel and to the left as remembrance of where the rough work of Moz’s knife was done inside his body.

     “It’s me . I’m the person you’re talking about! Of course I fucking know,” Stanley snarled, yanking his shirt right back down. Amaryllis was horrified, at a loss for words- completely taken aback by the astronomical chances of what led her to meeting this man under these circumstances. Another victim of Moz, here to help her with the job of disposing of him? What were these chances? She struck gold! This could benefit the girl greatly. Her jaw may as well have dropped to the heels of her shoes on the ground.

     “Oh, my… I’m so… I’m sorry that happened to you,” Amaryllis replied with her hands covering her mouth from the shock, “that wasn’t long ago- and your pup- my goodness! Just awful!”

     “Yeah. That asshole ruined my omega’s first months of pregnancy on top of my ability to care for him. He didn’t just hurt me and you, kid,” Stanley replied, not taking his sharp eyes off his rifle that was now comfortably back in his arms with a scope fastened on top of it. 

     Amaryllis watched in fascination as the sniper worked his magic in giving his rifle its preparation before launching a bullet into yet another person. Stanley didn’t feel bad at all for what he was about to do to this guy. He not only crossed the former Marine but his newly pregnant omega and unborn pup. Anyone who hurt Xeno may as well be asking for Stanley Snyder to cut their throat and let their blood rain down.

     “I’m glad.. that you survived, I mean… Moz said he was sure he killed you,” Amaryllis said to the former soldier and Marine Captain. Her smile turned to a conniving grin, “now we both have a reason to want him dead.”

     Stanley enjoyed the darker side of Amaryllis’s personality. He could appreciate someone with a taste for revenge towards someone who was a lowlife scumbag and deserved it. The alpha played along, his lip curling up to smirk right back at the omega. His pheromones were concealed by his collar and he was so damn grateful for Xeno’s at-home making of alpha scent blockers. Unless an omega was in heat, an alpha’s scent was stronger. Especially an alpha laying in a bed of emotions like Stanley Snyder.

     “I can’t fucking wait to give this guy a taste of his own medicine.”

Chapter Text

      “Anything?” Amaryllis asked with a whisper to Stanley.

      Stanley was lying prone in the bushes outside the party mansion, rifle against his shoulder and eyes wide open. His mascara left a small mark of black against the scope of the rifle and his stained lips were pursed with concentration as he stalked Moz at the party. He had entrusted his phone, wallet and keys to the girl who was paying him for the entire gig. Amaryllis gave her word that she’d look after Stanley’s stuff.

      “No,” Stanley replied with a tone of daggers to tell Amaryllis that she better quiet down if she knows what’s good for her. If Stanley was going to put a bullet in this fucker’s head, he needed to be more focused then he was on his wedding day.

      The alpha puffed out a cloud of cigarette smoke after his deep inhale of the therapeutic carcinogens of black lungs. He was spying on every move of Moz- the man was mainly talking to younger girls, one of which looked way too young to be talking to someone of Moz’s age. Stanley scoffed to himself in disgust with a shake of disapproval with his blond head. 

     Amaryllis shyly looked down at her feet, toying with a small rock with her hands clasped together at her front. She must’ve made her dear sniper frustrated, so she’d make a note of keeping quiet as a small mouse to ensure her goal and that she, too, didn’t get a bullet in her head.

     Stanley had the cover of bushes, darkness and music to completely conceal his presence. The alpha had several years of sniping history to know what he was doing- much like clockwork. Even the car with big headlights pulling up didn’t illuminate Stanley hiding in the bushes. He didn’t lower his rifle, however, and instead magnified his focus to get a detailed view on the passengers. 

     The car was an all black, SUV lookalike with the silhouette of a person in the driver side and a smaller person in the passenger seat. The windows were damn near the appearance of soul sucking voids with how tinted they looked. Surely that wasn’t even legal? 

     “Kirisame, dear, we’re here! Do you see Moz anywhere?”

     The presumably older man’s voice was like nails on a chalkboard to Stanley. Yet, it sounded like he heard him somewhere, like in a dream. Maybe on the battlefield? If he knew Moz, perhaps they were present the day Stanley was attacked. His blood began to boil like it did before. Adrenaline pumped through his veins and to his deepest cells. How dare these people go around hunting military for some drug money? Was there a bounty on Stanley’s head in some sub branch of the Yakuza? They must’ve hunted US military soldiers for sport and bloodmoney.

      A smaller woman stepped out of the car, a miniature drawstring bag that resembled the velvet jewelry bag he purchased to hold his engagement ring for Xeno, resting against her breast pocket of the suit she wore. Just what was in that bag? 

      “Not yet. He’s probably talking to the host and his omega,” Kirisame replied, shutting the car door behind her. She looked classy, put together and like a proper businesswoman there to conduct a deal with Moz of some sort. If Stanley didn’t get a chance to snoop in on this… he’d never get any of the closure he deserved on the people who tried to kill him.

       Then, the alpha’s head went to his wife, his beloved Xeno. Just what would Xeno say to Stanley recklessly wandering his way into a giant houseparty with at least one Yakuza member there, and that Yakuza me never happened to be the guy who plunged that knife into his stomach? Well, Xeno would shout at his husband and tell him simply how illogical it was to attempt to extract revenge when he could get back in a much more elegant way, like some black market Yakuza pyramid scheme if Stanley so wished.

     A pair of blue eyes stalked Kirisame and the old man Ibara as they walked up the stone pathway through the gated entrance, and through the double wooden doors. The opening of the doors allowed each note of the music to seep into the real world, beyond the wall of drugged out, drunk people dancing, eating, having sex and sleeping. 

     That was when Stanley made his first move. He turned to Amaryllis, standing up and adjusting his rifle from underneath his chin where it once rested comfortably. He looked over his shoulder to the young girl, his eyes narrow.

     “These aren’t the people we want. Unless you want ‘em dead?”

     Amaryllis watched Kirisame and Ibara from afar. She didn’t know them, and decided the best way to avoid the risk of pursed already for one Yakuza death was enough. She shook her head quickly and frantically like Stanley would pull the trigger anyways. She went off behind a tree, holding her own phone and Stanley’s belongings close. If Stanley was killed and his corpse stolen, no one could have access to his home address, full name, or Xeno’s identity and the pup. Stanley may as well put a big target on them by giving up his stuff upon a horrific death.

     Stanley nodded and looked back forward, adjusting his shoulders until he was comfortable with the rifle. He was watching with his Hawkeye back towards the mansion itself as Kirisame and Ibara roamed through the home, up the stairs and presumably to where Moz was. 

      “Where are you…?” Stanley whispered to himself, smoke coming from his cigarette that was wasting away.

      Kirisame seemed to have exited the house with a small bag in hand, resembling the one she wore pinned to the suit atop her chest. Stanley had no idea what that was and would rather remain ignorant. For all he knew, it was the ashes of someone’s businessman father or a government official of Japan…

     Stanley stayed absolutely still, the grass swaying in the cool breeze of the early summer. It was like he wasn’t even there. Like Medusa had turned him to stone, a pair of green eyes met his blue ones and time seemed to screech to a sudden halt.

      The silence was deafening, like a pin was dropped. Kirisame was standing still, the porch light behind her illuminating around her like she was a supervillain emerging from their throne room. Even if she was a beta, Kirisame was intimidating like an alpha.

       Kirisame didn’t say a word for what felt like ages, when it was really two minutes. Her glare to Stanley was intimidating and it gave the sniper a rush of adrenaline that he couldn’t resist. 

       “Who are you?” Kirisame finally asked. Maybe she was used to business deals ending in shootouts. 

        “Your fuckin’ problem if you say anything,” Stanley hissed, dropping his cigarette and putting it out with his elbow, due to laying prone.

        “Who are you here for? Perhaps, I could offer you valuable insight,” Kirisame suggested. She took a step closer and Stanley jerked the gun higher, his index finger on the trigger. She stopped, fear glossing over her green eyes.

     Amaryllis heard a voice bouncing off the trees and heading toward her direction, which was also Stanley’s direction. She peeked around the tree to catch a short glimpse of just what was going on. Her heart skipped a beat as she gasped quietly, then shoving a hand over her mouth to silence herself and not draw any unwanted attention. She kept an ear open and her eyes peeled to the thin treeline separating the mansion and their neighbor, in case of any nearby lurkers with a taste for blood. If anyone smelled her anxiety through that collar, it was game over.

     “Ha. Nice try, I ain’t falling for that one,” Stanley replied, “pretend you never saw me. Or I’ll shoot you.”

     “Hmm… You look very familiar. An alpha, too. I can smell your husk.”

     There was a silence between the two, Kirisame not once taking her eyes off the alpha man who was trying to keep himself together. Stanley's sudden rush of adrenaline sparked his alpha husk to slip underneath the crack of the door of his own scent blocker.

     “Pretend you didn’t. Fuck off.”

     Kirisame’s eyes had a distinct sparkle to them as they widened when the last puzzle piece clicked. She remembered this man- he was Moz’s latest- and failed- military captain kill. 

     “It’s you!” She gasped, before going back to her once stoic self. She simply couldn’t contain her shock and surprise when she put the two clues together.

      “You’re here for Moz. You’re the Marine Captain that he was proud of killing. I’m sorry for helping him, it’s just our business, and there was quite a bounty on your head. Glad you made it.”

       As much as Stanley absolutely, downright despised Moz and his little posse, he picked up on Kirisame’s tone of voice indicating that she was being genuine. After all, he had no scent to go by with her being a beta- she was practically a ghost.

      It sounded like she didn’t take pleasure in doing the dirtiest part of the job and instead liked to look away and claim her money when she could. It sounded similar to Stanley’s situation as well… they were one and the same. Fighting from afar, making their bucks while turning a blind eye to their actions after the triggers are pulled and grenades are thrown.

      “Uh…. Thanks?” Stanley replied, then sucking in a deep breath of his cigarette, “that won’t butter me up enough to spare you. You fucked over me, my pregnant omega and my pup.”

       Kirisame felt a sense of guilt upon hearing Stanley had a wife at home. That was why she would’ve rather not known her victims- they were people, just like her- and that ate her alive. The genuine sorrow filled her eyes and with a long sigh and blink, she was able to muster a response with white, clenched knuckles.

      “I’m so sorry. Truly, I am- I am all the more grateful that you survived.”

      Amaryllis from behind the tree was listening intently the entire time while keeping a close eye on her woodsy surroundings. She saw a small furry animal scurry through the brush and a twig snap. She darted her head over her right shoulder to where the backyard, bedazzled pool and fenced area of the mansion was. She saw the gate was slightly ajar that let out back. Kirisame was standing before Stanley and negotiating with him. Perhaps, it was her who left it open to throw them off or simply out of carelessness. 

      The young omega girl took a deep breath, letting out a silent sigh to help calm her anxiety through soothing breathing techniques. Stanley could handle it, he was a former marine and had a pregnant mate to get home to.

      “That makes two of us. You’re still a piece of shit for helping him kill people. Don’t think I’ll let you off the hook that easily.”

       Stanley was observing the area around Kirisame as well as her pockets for any items that could be bulging, any sort of blinking light or shine of a metal object that could be recording their entire conversation. He heard the snap of a twig and whipped his head around, noting the surroundings and how dark it really was beyond the house. He kept his gun close, finger hovering over the trigger for the eventual sneak attack. Kirisame was stalling, so he’d play dumb, too.

       “I don’t expect anything from you-“ Kirisame replied until she made eye contact with Amaryllis, who had spun around the tree and ran behind Stanley, hugging him out of fear.

      “What the fuck-!?” Stanley gasped, shouting out instinctively because it wasn’t Xeno hugging him. It was a small girl. A small girl… was this what it would be like to be hugged by his own child? A feeling of fatherly devotion and needing to protect an innocent life hugged him just as tight as Amaryllis. His pup wasn’t even born yet- and he was already getting his free trial into fatherhood.

      “Behind you, Stanley! Watch out!” Amaryllis cried, burying her head into the leather of Stanley’s jacket. He was already like a friend to her, and with her friends, she’d stick to them like she was a barnacle in makeup.

      That snapped Stanley out of things and made the alpha whip his head around to see Moz, leaned against a nearby tree with his arms folded. Kirisame seemed surprised herself to see Moz, judging by the furrowed brow and wide green eyes. That could only mean one thing: that Moz appearing wasn’t planned.

     “Hey! Oh, it’s you?” Moz laughed cockily, clearly sober. He had to be sober with his occupation, “wow. Color me impressed, you survived! And you brought the girl!”

     Stanley stood right up on his feet with Amaryllis as a piggyback. She held onto him tighter than ever, cowering in fear before the man who hurt her. 

     “Ah. So you’re the asshole who hurt my pregnant mate and pup. Say no more.”

     Stanley sighed, dropping his cigarette to the ground and stamping it out- giving Moz the perfect time to whip out a pistol from under his shirt that was tucked into his pants. Of course he was armed! What a drag it would be to shoot him down.

     “Let’s finish this. Shall we?” Moz asked, the smirk ambient in his tone alone. It made Stanley’s skin crawl, like a thousand ants were all over him.

      Stanley aimed his gun up as a diversion and then dived to avoid the first gunshot. It hit Amaryllis in the hair, the girl shouting and covering her mouth to stifle her cries. Stanley was incredible! His speed was unmatched- he’d certainly get Moz.

      Stanley bolted it through the trees, leaving behind the piece of Amaryllis’s hair that was shot off in their wake. He used the trees as cover to avoid the shots from Moz’s pistol. Unfortunately, Moz’s gun had a greater rate of fire, making him more susceptible to land on shot on either the alpha or the omega on his back. 

     The alpha took cover behind a thicker tree, catching his breath from the long run, and with a young girl on his back, it weighed him down all the more.

      “You okay?” Stanley whispered, “not hit, are ya?”

      “N-no, just my hair,” Amaryllis whimpered, hiding her face in her hitman’s neck, “don’t leave me, please!”

      “Not goin’ to if you shut up and let me focus,” Stanley replied, Amaryllis more than used to his crass tone and outspoken nature. She was paying him to do that task, after all. 

     Stanley aimed his rifle out to search for Moz. He heard an empty bullet case drop to the ground- reloading. The alpha pointed the scope around the area to check for Moz, seeing a pair of hands peer out from the tree. 

     It was like he was acting on instincts yet again. The moment lasted a fraction of a second- that was all it took for the sniper to put a bullet in the chest of Moz. Moz had turned around from the tree to aim at Stanley like a Mexican standoff. Unfortunately for him, he was slower than the professional that was Stanley Snyder. Moz fell to the ground, bleeding from the chest and eyes shut. The thud of his body hitting the ground made Amaryllis sob into Stanley’s shoulder. It was bittersweet, even if the job was finally done. Stanley pulled his trigger first and that saved his life yet again. He was trained to kill with guns  from the day he joined the forces, and after the death of a Yakuza, that meant there was one less scumbag in Japan.

      Stanley shook his head, popping a new round into his rifle and approaching the corpse of his enemy. He stood over Moz like he was playing god and got to decide if everyone else in that party lived or died that night. Lucky for those partygoers, Stanley loved Xeno and the pup far more than putting holes in people, so he’d choose to go home. 

     “I-Is it over?” Amaryllis asked. 

     “Not quite,” Stanley replied, searching for where Kirisame went from around a tree- just what was she doing? Kirisame didn't leave her original position, standing with her face pale as a ghost and shock painted her face like the colors of a mixture made by Xeno blending together.

      “What the hell…” Kirisame said, looking from where Moz was laying and to Stanley, who came out from beyond the treeline. There was no point in hiding- the job was done.

      The alpha approached Kirisame without a single moment’s hesitation or break in his death glare. He got right up in her face, the alpha husk sending full body chills to Kirisame.

      “Say a word and I’ll find you, and I will kill you. Come for my pregnant mate and I’ll kill your entire family, too. Understood?”

      To emphasize his point, Stanley lifted Kirisame’s chin with the end of his gun, the same tip that shot the bullet that ultimately killed Moz.

       “What if I told you Moz already sent someone to him?” Kirisame whispered to Stanley, “if you hurry, you’ll catch them.”

      Stanley’s heart could’ve very well stopped beating in his chest then and there. It could’ve frozen, thawed, shriveled up and died on the spot from the stages of grief he was going through. The alpha had a bit of a drive to get home to Xeno and his baby, but every single second counted when their lives were in danger. 

     Amaryllis even gasped, tightening her grip on Stanley from fear. What kind of sick monster would hurt a defenseless, pregnant omega that was home alone? How much horror could she encounter from one night?

     “HOW FUCKING DARE YOU! My omega and baby have NO part in this! They’re innocent!” Stanley shouted, grabbing Kirisame by her collar and nearly lifting her off the ground. He would now show absolutely no mercy for this woman.

      “Fuck- stupid. STUPID!” Stanley shouted, throwing the woman to the ground, “I’m wasting my time on you, bitch!”

      The alpha pointed his gun to Kirisame and shot her foot, then making a beeline for his truck. Her screams piled with the sounds of gunshots sent partygoers stumbling out of the house over the sound of a revving truck and blaring pop music. Stanley didn’t care about anything happening behind him- he had to get the hell out of there and back to Xeno. Forget Amaryllis’s car- he threw the girl in the backseat of his truck after ripping the keys she was shakily handing to him, threw his rifle on the floor and slammed the door to the backseat. 

     Amaryllis was dazed and confused from hitting her head, rubbing her temples to clear her blurred vision. All she saw was Stanley in the driver seat, turning his wheel after nearly flooring it.

     “Stanley! I… your omega-!” She said, “will he be be okay?”

      Stanley didn’t answer the girl’s question and instead focused on the road, weaving between what cars he had to and blowing red lights.

      Stanley had priorities- Xeno’s life was more important. If Xeno died, their pup died, too, and Stanley would have no reason to keep on living if that were to happen to him.

     Amaryllis was flung around the backseat from the vicious, skidding turns that Stanley made. If it weren’t the middle of the night he’d surely be screwed!

     “Snyder-! Jesus!” Amaryllis cried out as Stanley swung his truck at a 90 degree right turn. He blew through more red lights and went over 70 miles an hour on the backroads just to get back to Xeno. 

Chapter Text

A grueling fifteen minutes went by when Stanley pulled his truck into the driveway, bumping through grass to get there and put the truck in park. There weren’t any suspicious vehicles that pulled over nearby- but Stanley, a bona fide expert in underground shooting knew that wouldn’t stop anyone from going on foot or being dropped off to murder a pregnant omega of their enemy, a perfectly vulnerable target.

     Stanley stopped the truck, grabbed the keys and threw open the truck door, tripping out of the vehicle and catching his footing before he made contact with the ground and pushed open the door to the porch, then got to the front door- locked. 

      The alpha fumbled with his keys, hands shaking like he was frostbitten with adrenaline. He found his house key and shoved it into the keyhole, turning the doorknob and forcing his way into the house. It was dark, no blood anywhere- quiet. What if Xeno was tied up? What if they kidnapped him, and the knight was too late to his princess?

      “XENO!” Stanley shouted, running through the kitchen and then to the living room, scouring the room for any mystery person that wasn’t his beloved.

      The bedroom door was shut with just a crack from there to the living room. That’s when Stanley heard it, the rustling from inside the room. He slid the door open with enough force to break off the old hinges.

     “XE!” Stanley cried out again, ripping the moon patterned comforter right off the bed in a bout of desperation and grief.

     “Stan?” A sleepy Xeno asked, flinching, rubbing his eyes and belly, and then stretching, “it’s cold… and don’t shout…okay…? You scared me.”

     Stanley felt like a machine with its crucial engine taken out, and it all broke down. He jumped on the bed, throwing his arms around his precious omega and bursting into the most ugly tears Xeno had ever seen him in. He buried his face into the shoulder of Xeno’s white nightshirt, makeup tears staining the fabric and rolling down Xeno’s neck.

     “Stan-!” Xeno gasped, taken aback as to why Stanley all of the sudden burst into their house at 4 in the morning full of tears. And just why the hell was he smelling of an omega? Was this his guilty as sin confession?

     “N-no… no one… h-hurt you, right? Y-you’re okay?” Stanley asked, cupping Xeno’s face and inspecting his skin in the dark. He could still make out his beauty of a scientist, and not a single scratch or bruise was on his face or forearms. Stanley had disregarded the second part intentionally, as Xeno’s safety was a far bigger priority than any sort of cheating accusation he was about to hear.

      Stanley lifted up Xeno’s nightshirt and inspected his belly for any potential traumas, making the omega squirm and cover his mouth.

     “Stan- what are you- not right now,” Xeno whined, finding the situation very erotic and sudden to wake up to, “the pup and I are okay. Nobody was here. What’s going on? What did you do?”

       Stanley, upon hearing the words of assurance from the smartest person he knew, realized what he was doing- straddling a half naked Xeno and checking out his body. He blushed, turning away and getting off his mate, rubbing his forehead and smudging his makeup from wiping his frantic tears of panic away. His hands were still shaking from the rushes of adrenaline he got just hearing that evil woman say they were targeting his sweet omega and pup.

     “I-I had a client and someone to kill, Xe. They said… they said that they sent… someone to… god. I don’t know. They lied to me so they’d live. I’m… glad they did.”

      Stanley made eye contact with a pouting Xeno, the expression on his face was enough to tell him all he needed to know. The several years of marriage also assisted him in that.

     “Oh… a-about that omega… just the client.  A-a friend of Senku’s, actually, uh… she got spooked and shot at so I-I carried her back.”

      Xeno’s face went from sleepy to surprised, his eyes lighting up from fear. Who the hell was this client hanging around to warrant a bullet to the head? He wouldn’t ask any more questions about her, simply from apathy- Xeno was Stanley’s omega at the end of the day and their loyalty to each other was unmatched. 

      Xeno pulled Stanley so he was back on top of him completely, rubbing his biceps, “goodness…alright. I understand,” Xeno began, sighing with his signature smile, “we’re okay, Stan. The pup and I wouldn’t go down without an elegant fight. But, are you hurt?”

      Stanley couldn’t help but smile at Xeno. Just… Xeno. He was perfect. Of course Xeno trusted him. Even through the hormones and emotions, Xeno was by his side. The alpha, still in those attractive work clothes of his, had captured Xeno’s full undivided attention. His eyes wandered down Stanley’s shirt to his chest. The alpha was more fixated on Xeno’s face, stroking his cheek and thanking whatever higher power there was that his omega was okay. He had never felt luckier to have dodged a bullet- or several of them- than in that moment. 

      “That’s right. That’s exactly right,” Stanley said, his smile never wavering, “and no, I’m fine if you are.”

       Stanley leaned in to kiss Xeno from the joy of seeing him okay and trusting his word once again. The omega wrapped his arms around his alpha’s neck as they took each other completely and melted in the kiss. Xeno’s hands ran up Stanley’s jacket and t-shirt, Stanley’s back muscles welcoming Xeno back and saying hello.

     Pulling away was a blessing and a curse for the alpha. He looked down at Xeno’s belly, the omega’s stomach finally beginning to protrude with their little miracle child. 

     “Go on,” Xeno ushered his husband, patting his cheek, “say hi to her.”

     “Her?” Stanley snorted, running his hand over Xeno’s stomach, “we don’t know the pup’s gender yet. Not till morning.”

      “I think it’s a girl,” Xeno insisted, shrugging, “a new mom’s instinct, I suppose. Elegant, is it not? Oh- I meant to tell you. I’ve been getting these… feelings, about our child. Like I know her already. Now, I believe she’s sleeping, because I feel a spark of more energy than I usually do.”

      Stanley kissed Xeno’s belly, leaving a mark of his black lipstick in the middle just above his navel. He wanted Xeno and the pup to know just how grateful he was for them and how much he loved them both. The alpha sat back up, keeping his hand atop the omega’s stomach. At that point, he was so wrapped up in the moment that he forgot about the girl in his truck whom he had stolen from the area containing her car. He’d give her a ride back… eventually.

      Stanley couldn’t help but chuckle at how cute Xeno was. He was a mini mom in the making, and it warmed the heart he thought he lost to his father, “I can’t remember the last time you were wrong about stuff like that.”

     “Mm… perhaps… Then again, I’m very new to motherhood, so my hypothesis could easily be wrong. Our experiment tomorrow will determine the outcome.”

      Xeno greedily leaned in and kissed Stanley yet again, the alpha husk of anxiety turning to passion, protectiveness and love for the smaller omega underneath him. Xeno felt safer than the President of his home country at that moment. A husband like Stanley had a devotion that was unmatched.

     When the two pulled away, Xeno tucked some of Stanley’s blond hair behind his ear and wiped some smeared lipstick from the corner of his mouth. Stanley leaned his face against the delicate porcelain skin of Xeno’s palm. Stanley was still leaning over Xeno’s body completely. He couldn’t let his weight back on the omega like when they had sex. He’d crush their poor pup like a pancake from how heavy Stanley was, the marines strengthened the alpha’s muscles and his work kept them in shape. 

     Xeno began to twirl the loose strands of Stanley’s hair that often laid across his face. He had soft, doughy eyes like a true innocent omega. Xeno’s looks were quite deceiving- he was the smartest, most cunning and evil omega when he needed to be. He was simply unmatched, Stanley had never met anyone like him.

     “Did you know alpha genes pick the gender of the baby? Omegas always give the same chromosome,” Xeno said, his eyes lighting up at his husband, leaning over to him, “you either give your X or Y chromosome, determining the gender. Stan! You choose our child’s fate! Simply elegant!” 

      Xeno clasped his hands together and then yawned, having exhausted himself already. He was in a dead sleep when Stanley came barreling in, so it was only a matter of time before the firework exploded into exhausted ash. He looked back to Stanley, who was smiling at him and blushing like he had just gone on his first date with Xeno just to hear him talk about science the whole time again. 

      “Is that right?” The alpha asked, his smile turning to a smirk to tease Xeno, “if the pup looks like you, then, she’ll be set for life. That’s a genetic lottery, babe.”

       Xeno blushed, “Stan… I want our pup to have your beauty. She can have my brains. Does that sound like a compromise?”

      Stanley smiled back, “sure thing, doll.”

      Stanley buttering Xeno up with affection came at no cost to the already pregnant Xeno, all he had to do was lean in and the two were making out on the bed in passion, love and companionship that lasted them a lifetime. Xeno was safe and the relief that Stanley felt was like the highs he got from hard drugs. Was that what love did to a man? He wouldn’t have ever forgiven himself if Xeno’s life was actually in danger from the Yakuza- then again, it wasn’t Stanley’s fault that they pursued him in the first place. Moz and Kirisame could’ve had all three of their lives at their blood soaked fingertips.

 ~

     Amaryllis was left in that truck from a frazzled Stanley, and with each passing second, she wondered if he’d come back. Was his omega okay? She didn’t hear any shooting or screaming, which was a good sign. She peeked outside the window of the truck to look for a light coming from the house, only to see nothing but darkness, the white paint of the house and her own reflection.

     The girl sighed, leaning back against the door and whipping out her phone. That was when she remembered what Stanley gave to her. The phone, wallet and keys. Stanley had been given his keys from the shaky hands of Amaryllis in the heat of the pressure, so she had two of the three valuables left. 

     Amaryllis needed to return Stanley’s valuables but also needed a way to get home. Her dilemma… that was when she had an idea. Kohaku was one phone call and a half hour drive away.

      So, she decided upon giving her love a call.

     The phone rang several times before it was finally picked up by Amaryllis’s favorite person. Kohaku was most definitely asleep, and wouldn’t be happy at all to know her girlfriend’s situation and how she got there. She knew about the hitman thing and that was the extent of it.

     “Amaryllis? Are you okay? Where are you?” Kohaku asked. She knew if her girlfriend called her on the night of the hit, that it must’ve been an emergency.

      “Hi, hun… I…” Amaryllis looked around the area and then back down to her lap. She got the number of the house, the name of the street remained a mystery, however. She closed the call app and opened the Maps app to find where she was, all while Kohaku was on the other end.

      “What’s going on? Amaryllis?” Kohaku asked again, “I’ll come get you. Is the guy dead?”

      “Yes, sweetie, I’m at 104 Arataka private way… can you come? Pleaseee~?”

       “Ha, of course. So you’re somewhere safe, right? I don’t have to bring my knives?” Kohaku asked, her smile coming through her voice.

      “Nooo!” Amaryllis gasped, her soft girl tone only coming through for her girlfriend, “I’m in a black truck parked awfully. I’ll tell you more when you get here. Eek, you won’t believe it!”

      Kohaku was confused as ever but would ultimately do what Amaryllis wished and come scoop her up to safety. She didn’t even have her car? Just what happened at that hit?

     Kohaku chuckled, “you’re cute. Sit tight, I’m on my way. Love you.”

    “Love you too! Mwah!” Amaryllis said, then hanging up the phone. She had a duty to fulfill before Kohaku showed up. The omega picked up Stanley’s phone and wallet to return to him. 

~

     Amaryllis finally built up the courage to leave the truck into the dark night after ten minutes of worrying that Stanley was actually in danger. She didn’t have any weapons and just listened for screams and watched for anyone running away. When the coast seemed to be clear, she made a break for the porch and saw the front door was ajar. She knocked regardless, wanting the couple in the house to know she wasn’t some burglar or Yakuza member.  

     “Mr. Stanley?” Amaryllis asked. She saw the room at the far end of the house had a shut sliding door and she went over to that door, knocking. There wasn’t a light on underneath it which worried her. The muffled voices on the other side gave her hope that everything was okay. 

    After a minute of waiting, the door slid open to reveal Stanley in his t-shirt after having ditched the jacket. When the reality set in that he left his client in his truck, he looked about ready to jump off a building. 

    “Oh shit, Amaryllis, I’m so damn sorry! I’ll take you back, I got caught up in here, I’m sorry.”

    “It’s okay, my girlfriend is on her way. I wanted to give these to you,” Amaryllis said, handing the alpha his stuff. Stanley stood, flabbergasted, and accepted his belongings, putting them in the pockets of his black jeans.

     “And I wanted to thank you,” Amaryllis continued, “for helping me, even if it was a crazy night. Is your family okay?”

     Stanley wasn’t ever a sentimental person and wouldn’t let it show on his face just how much he felt his fatherly instincts blooming within him. Perhaps having a daughter would be just as fun as it was hanging around Amaryllis.

     “Yeah. He’s fine. Right, babe?” Stanley asked, looking over his left shoulder to Xeno.

     “Who’s there, Stan?” Xeno asked.

     “Uh… my client,” Stanley replied, “kinda just threw her in the truck when I came here, because I didn’t know if you were safe or not.”

     Amaryllis heard shuffling off the bed and then saw a figure approach Stanley from his side and folded his arms. He was an omega, and just as pregnant as Stanley said. He was cute, Amaryllis thought, and seemed like a perfect match for the sniper.

     “And you forgot about her?” Xeno asked, “that’s rude, and terrifying.”

     “It was an accident, and I didn’t know if you were safe, Xe! You’re pregnant!” Stanley insisted. Xeno ignored him and went over to the other omega, smiling at her and offering his hand to shake, “sorry about him, he’s sweeter than he acts. My name is Xeno. I’m Stanley’s partner. I know these are rather… strange circumstances, but it’s nice to meet you.”

     Amaryllis was surprised at such hospitality. She never met a pregnant omega who was so… welcoming towards other omegas they didn’t know in their home. She shook Xeno’s hand, glancing to the flustered Stanley who was running a hand through his hair and bashfully turning in a swift haze to go to the bathroom in the back of the room. What a sight that was, she never thought she’d see a side of the alpha that wasn’t cutthroat. He seemed to hide the side of him that was sweet, like Xeno said.

    “Oh, my… you’re so kind,” Amaryllis said, shaking the fellow omega’s hand, “I know… Stanley is such a wonderful man, he did a great job. I'm sorry to barge in on your nest and space, it’s hard being an omega, forget being pregnant! I-I can step outside and wait!”

     Xeno blinked, surprised at what Amaryllis said. Just what kinds of omegas was she hanging out with? Even so, Xeno’s heats and pain made it hard for him to nest. It was sporadic and usually in small bursts. Only within the pregnancy did he even consider and begin nesting with his and Stanley’s stuff.

     “my husband is quite an elegant sniper,” Xeno insisted, smiling, “he’s been doing it for years, and now it’s what’s helping him pay for me and the pup, so we’re very grateful to you. Thank you. As my way of thanks, you can wait in our home for your ride. I’m not always kind, so I’d take what you can get.”

     Amaryllis felt warmth within her heart. He was being so kind. Xeno? An evil scientist? Maybe to people who didn’t know him! Good thing Amaryllis was on good terms with people Xeno cared for. She hoped she’d meet them again sometime.

     “Thank you,” the girl replied with soft and tear filled eyes. No way, getting emotional over the guy who saved her life in front of his omega?! She simply had to pull herself together!

Chapter Text

Stanley left Amaryllis with the tv remote and a blanket before sliding his bedroom door shut, leaving him and Xeno alone. He sighed, back against the door and hand on his forehead. Finally. The night activities were done, and he could rest with Xeno. 

      Xeno sat down at his vanity just across from the bed, combing his hair that was, once again, not at all styled. During the pregnancy, Stanley saw Xeno’s hair was growing out and far less styled into its usual pompadour. 

     “Hey, Xe?” Stanley asked, “should I keep doing these gigs or just focus on my classes?”

     The stress from Stanley’s alpha scent glands were like another method of communication for Xeno, the hypersensitive pregnant omega that he called a mate. They had a sixth sense for each other.

     “Do what you think is best, Stan. I’d suggest avoiding jobs that you know involve whoever threatened us,” Xeno replied. Always honest, straight to the point. He didn’t seem to feel worried. Xeno felt safe. Stanley was there to protect him, he would lay down every single bullet out of every gun he owned and every knife blade of his collection to protect the two things he loved most in their cruel and unforgiving world. 

     “Yeah. Maybe just stick to the rich guys, not shady drug dealers, huh?” Stanley chuckled sarcastically to his own remark, “ ‘cause I’d rather be poorer than the bums of Houston than sacrifice you and the pup for extra cash.”

      “And that’s why I married you,” Xeno replied. The omega and alpha sat in comfortable silence for a moment, just listening to the wind outside of an impending storm come the warmer weather.

      Xeno then turned in his chair from the brushing of his hair to face his husband, a genuine smile across his face. 

      “Stan,” Xeno said, consciously aware they needed this money to pay for Stanley’s classes. There was no backing down. Still, there was one glaring issue that held Stanley back when popping bullets in the heads of unsuspecting victims.

     “I know you’re scared about being a father, just as I am to be a mother. Air on the side of caution is all I ask. When you’re here, I know you’ll protect us and focus on your studies. Not a single second goes by when I doubt that. Just don’t get yourself killed because you’re thinking of me, okay? I’ll be alright.”

      Stanley looked up from what was once staring into the black void of his mud and blood covered boots. Blue alpha eyes met the omega’s doughy obsidian ones, sparkling with life from the happiness of his husband being by his side and protecting him, their pup, and home.

      “Xe… you… I can’t just leave you-“

      “Stanley. It’s already hurt you once, am I wrong?” Xeno asked, “Always take jobs you know are safe for you. Where you’re in the cover of darkness, or disguised in a crowd. That way, you aren’t worrying for my wellbeing in the first place, hmm? They can’t hunt a man they can’t see, let alone his mate.”

      Stanley wouldn’t lie to himself- he wouldn’t mind entertaining the idea of playing hitman in a crowd. The man truly was a mess of nerves. The growing of his family meant more things for his mind to wander to, distracting him from what was directly ahead of him, and each time, it was Moz, bloodthirsty. The man was but the tip of a knife blade and a bullet away from taking Stanley’s life, twice. 

      That wasn’t the Snyder way. If it was one thing his father taught him, it was to be strong, and put family first. Mr. Snyder had a crooked way of manipulating and abusing his family whilst they rotted in his clutches, and of course his son, Stanley, was no saint himself- but it was crystal clear to any oncomer that Stanley had genuine love for Xeno. He turned out well, and Xeno was no idiot. He wouldn’t let in someone dangerous.

      “You’re right. You’re right, baby. I’ll start takin’ jobs further away and use the fake name every time. Only reason I didn’t was ‘cause that damn girl knew Senku. Almost got us both killed.”

      “Don’t blame her, Stan.”

      “I’m not. I’m just saying it’s fucked up that helping a mutual friend means we pay the price for it.”

     Xeno looked down towards his small bump, placing his hands on it and then looking back up at Stanley, a shadow from the lighting painting his face a perfect evil scientist picture, “we work with the variables we cannot control in our experiment, and bend for them. If someone threatens us again, Stan, end them. Ensure it doesn’t happen again.”

     “You have my word. I can. I’ll make sure there’s no evidence,” Stanley replied, his tone firm, determined, husky and domineering.

      “Excellent.”

~

     “And then, I fuckin’ booked it to my truck, baby. I shot him in the chest, not my preferred spot but- fuck it. You’re asleep, aren’t you?” 

      Stanley had gone to take a piss when Xeno was laying in bed, pulling the covers up to his mouth, snuggling in the warmth like an omega in a nine month heat that had returned to his nest. He was telling his wife all that happened that night- his crazy story absolutely not going untold to his best friend, all while Xeno was snuggling one of Stanley’s favorite leather jackets and a pair of his jeans. He was in the early nesting stages.

      “Mmm…?” Xeno asked, “oh… no, Stan… you… were…. At that part…. Yakuza…. Shot….”

     Stanley was undoing his belt and pants, deciding it was best to strip for the night and worry about his clothes in the morning when they got home from the omega’s clinic. Stripping off his skin tight shirt next, he remained only in his boxers. The same ones that hugged his skin and showed off every little bump and details. That wasn’t enough to warrant the attention of Xeno, the already sleeping omega. He was fighting for two, so the energy was practically sucked out of him by the little vampire. Stanley was glad it was temporary. It was not at all fair Xeno got the pup all to himself, and he had to wait to hold them.

      “Damn, Xe,” Stanley teased, his voice as soft as that blanket he lifted to slip right into the bed beside his mate, “not even gonna let me finish my story?”

      Xeno’s cute and quiet snores stopped with obsidian eyes cracking open. Stanley could get lost in them any time, they resembled the outer world beyond the atmosphere that Xeno loved so much. 

      “Tomorrow…” Xeno said, “kiss me, Stan…”

      Stanley smiled like a goofball kid in love, leaning over the omega and kissing his mate. He did all the work for both sets of lips and pulled away when Xeno was back to a deep sleep. 

      The alpha used what energy he had left of the night to turn Xeno over in bed, spooning him so he could have a hand on both of the loves of his life. 

      It took willpower to talk through what paranoia was left for Stanley; hearing the sounds of a sole distant car driving outside and pulling into the driveway while half asleep. Then, the small footsteps of the omega girl fading to his ears as she traversed across the home, followed by the closing of the front door behind her.

      Thank god, it’s just her ride, Stanley thought. He climbed out of the bed with a groan of annoyance and reluctance. He had to make sure every point of entry was locked and sealed tight. As soon as the pair of headlights left his driveway and disappeared into the night, Stanley shut his porch door, locked it tight and then shut the front door. He bolted it shut and clicked the door handle lock shut. Twice the protection.

       Every window was shut tight, every nook and cranny secreted to ensure the safety of his family. The alpha went back into his bedroom to make sure Xeno was still asleep; the omega softly snoring with his back facing the window that overlooked the woodsy backyard and old farm. It was nearly pitch black, with nothing but a smidgen of light over the horizon of a sun ready to take over the sky.

      Stanley carefully removed his box of knives from under the bed and grabbed his favorite blade, sliding it under the pillow that was on his side of the bed. He even took the liberty of locking the sliding bedroom door shut to make absolutely sure they were safe. Only then, could Stanley direct his mind and body to Xeno, holding the omega by his belly, protecting him, even in a dreamless sleep. 

~

     Amaryllis found herself waiting in the living room of Stanley and Xeno for what felt like ages. Each tick of the Jupiter patterned wall clock drove her mad. She inspected the room, eyeing pictures on the wall of Stanley during his time in the force, Xeno’s awards, degrees, and then their beautiful wedding picture. 

     Stanley’s headshot from the marines looks to be from when he was a teenager… the man looked so young, yet he still kept the same makeup routine. Red lipstick, eyeliner drawn by the gods and mascara for those luscious lashes.

      Xeno’s diplomas were from two separate universities in the Texas area. That must’ve been the home of the alpha and omega back in the states. Before Xeno fell pregnant, he must’ve been completely underwater in his studies. The omega had two PhDs and a stable marriage, the icing on the cake being his teaching license. That omega was the most self sufficient and intelligent that Amaryllis had ever met! She hoped one day, she’d be hanging out with Senku and Kohaku at the right time to see Stanley in a non professional setting. 

     That’s when it hit her- she forgot to pay her hitman! Amaryllis frantically felt the pockets of her coat, gasping when she didn’t feel her wallet or purse. She left them in her car back at the cabin! The girl laid her head in her hands, frustrated with herself and her own carelessness.

    It was around 4:30 in the morning when Kohaku had finally arrived to her awaiting princess. The headlights peered in through the window like the sun would over the horizon in a few hours. Stanley and Xeno were long asleep, and the house was dead silent. That silence would only be temporary until the cries of a baby would join them after several months.

     Amaryllis tiptoed out of the house like she was in a minefield, even if she knew Stanley would be able to hear her (his sniper hearing was no joke), she would try her best to not disturb the kind couple who let her stay. She closed the front door behind her, the door clicking shut as confirmation that she could tiptoe outside to her girlfriend’s blue car parked in the driveway. Kohaku was standing outside it by the driver’s side door, hugging her waist in nothing but a hoodie and shorts. Damn it all, Amaryllis thought; She must’ve woken up and hit the road without getting dressed.

      “Kohaku!” Amaryllis cried dramatically, throwing her arms around her girlfriend wearing nothing but fashion below the neck and a relieved smile across her baby face.

      “Amaryllis… thank goodness,” Kohaku said with just as much relief (if not more) to see her love in one piece and without a bullet through her. Through hugging her omega back, Kohaku was feeling the dark dreadlocks of Amaryllis when her hand had abruptly come to a short section of her hair. The alpha paused, her blood running cold.

     “Who cut your hair?” Kohaku asked. 

      Shoot. Literally! She’d have to tell Kohaku the truth, there was no way Amaryllis would lie to the one person she cared for the most. Kohaku’s blue eyes quickly looked to Amaryllis with worry, quickly darting back to the road ahead to keep her attention there but also let her partner know she was concerned.

      “The… subject. He fought back,” Amaryllis replied, defeated. Her voice was softer than silk, quiet like a mouse in an attempt to ease any of Kohaku’s potential worries.

       Kohaku didn’t take her eyes off the road. Her expression turned to slight anger, her brows knitting closer together.  

       “Tell me he’s dead,” she replied, “he’s too dangerous to be kept alive, if he’s what you said he was.”

       “He did it. Stanley is simply remarkable,” Amaryllis explained, a proud smile on her face like she was the one who camped in the bushes and outran Moz herself. She had a face full of pride with full knowledge that she picked the right guy.

     Kohaku scoffed, chuckling and rolling her eyes while pressing her finger down on the button that would open her car to the wind of the night, “yeah, yeah.”

     Amaryllis blushed, waving her hands frantically to her alpha, “no- it’s not like that! Kohaku!” 

     Kohaku bursted into laughter at the sight of her flustered girlfriend. Stanley was married and he was far from her type, Kohaku knew that and she was simply pushing her omega’s pretty buttons- even if her alpha side wasn’t pleased that Amaryllis was hanging out with another alpha in a real life James Bond movie. 

     “Kohaku!” Amaryllis cried out. The car ride was full of laughter, loud music, and stories of that night all told by an eager but flustered Amaryllis from all that weighed on her. With Moz gone, she was finally free; so wasn’t Stanley, a man whose life was nearly stolen from his omega and unborn pup. She wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.

~

The next morning 

      “Stan?”

      “Stan, I think the baby’s coming!”

      Stanley met Xeno’s gaze with wide blue eyes, filled with fear and the reflection of his pregnant omega captured in his irises. Xeno had bloodshot, horrorful eyes and hands clenched at his belly. Something wasn’t right about Stanley’s usual nagging scientist of a wife. He looked… distorted.. like someone thickened his eyebrows and under eye bags, stretched his face vertically, and ruined what made Xeno beautiful. 

      “Xe.. Xeno… you…”

~

     “Stan,” Xeno’s soft voice sang like silk being strung from his larynx onto Stanley’s ear and down his bare neck, “good morning, my love.”

     Stanley let out an unintelligible grunt and slowly opened his eyes like the curtains of a play opening to reveal the gorgeous sight of Xeno. Pregnancy looked so beautiful on the omega. His skin glowed in the morning sunlight streaming in through the blue curtains, accentuating his most beautiful features. His cheekbones, forehead, lips… Stanley could gawk at him all day through halflidded and sleepy eyelids still dusted with remnants of his makeup. Xeno’s obsidian eyes sparkled with the light of the sun in the sheer over his irises. 

     The sleepy alpha didn’t realize how long he had been staring at his cute partner in crime until Xeno turned redder than Mars and his soft smile turned to a nervous expression.

     “Stan,” Xeno said, flustered, and shy, “you’re staring again.”

     “Mhm…” Stanley yawned. So he was getting bratty Xeno. Somehow, he’d try to get some love out of this brat if he was choosing to be that way, “you’re hot. Can’t help it.”

     “Stan!” Xeno gasped, “my goodness. What a way to start your day, former marine Captain!”

     “Don’t be like that, don’t play dumb. You’re hotter now than you’ve ever been, doll.”

     Xeno could read Stanley just as well as the alpha could to him and it drove him nuts. Only 13 weeks and Stanley had his memo down perfect of what it meant to be an absolute brat.

     Stanley felt his inevitable arousal throb between his legs. His cock was already ready for Xeno, missing his home between the omega’s legs where it usually was.

     “Thank you. But…I can’t shake the feeling you’re trying to butter me up,” Xeno replied, standing back up with a smirk. He was so damn evil, Stanley thought. He better not! Stanley’s arousal was only worsening as he longed for the sunlit beauty that he married and was carrying their pup.

     “So I'll let you get dressed. I have some coffee brewing.”

     Stanley’s whole body kicked into overdrive, instinct and reflexes when Xeno turned and exited their bedroom. No way he was leaving his husband with a boner they both knew was there! Stanley sighed in annoyance when his wife was gone, running a hand through his messy bed head of his once neatly styled blond hair.

     “Xeno! Get your ass back here! And that shit better be decaf, you’re not poisoning our pup!”

Chapter Text

Stanley pulled up his fresh pair of boxers after exiting the shower, a once dripping mess of warm water was dried by a fuzzy towel all in the span of 15 minutes while Xeno drank his morning decaf coffee. Stanley’s dick was treated to an eventful morning of bratty Xeno talk all over the base of it, coating it in saliva as it hit the back of the omega’s throat not even an hour ago. Just the thought of Xeno’s warm mouth around Stanley’s cock was enough to send his alpha pheromones into a boiling tizzy, so he refrained from reliving the fun-filled moment of their wake-up activities.

      Blue jeans were hastily pulled up over the boxers with ease by the former marine, trained in endurance and speed like it was in his DNA. The alpha threw on deodorant, followed by his black muscle tee and sprayed on some cologne to put the cherry on top of his casual outfit for their outing on finally learning more about the pup that Xeno was growing. 

     “Xe!” Stanley called from the bathroom, “you almost ready over there?”

     “Yes, alpha!” Xeno called back, his tone full of that shit eating smirk that Stanley knew was all over his face. He’d shove his cock back down his throat if it would shut him up and get the feisty omega to submit to him again.

     “Jesus christ, Xe..” Stanley sighed, then bringing the toothbrush to his mouth and vigorously scrubbing.

      The alpha shortly exited the bathroom with a body and breath smelling of nothing but angelic aromas. Xeno was leaning against the counter, nursing his coffee when he turned over to make eye contact with his husband who was still working on the drying and gel process of his hair. He had to rudimentarily run his fingers through his hair as he paced through the bedroom, grabbing the keys to his truck, followed by his phone and wallet. He stopped mid powerwalk to grab Xeno’s scent blocking collar duo on his nightstand. He didn’t need any damn alphas smelling up on his precious omega and pup.

     “Hey, doll,” Stanley said when he approached the drop dead stunning beauty that was his omega. He ran a thumb over his lower lip, leaning in and kissing him to truly bask in their time together.

     Stanley, after pulling away, looked down at Xeno’s slightly protruding belly and back up, noting his clothing choice of a maroon turtleneck and grey slacks. He took out the collars from his pocket and began to buckle them around Xeno’s neck, under the turtleneck sweater so they’d be hidden.

     “Xe… this isn’t too constricting, right? Or too hot? Temperatures are rising, it’s still only June-“ Stanley said like a worried dad, helping dress his mate in the collars.

     “Stan,” Xeno said, placing his coffee mug down on the counter he had been leaning against and cupping his husband’s face, “It’s okay, I promise. Logic never takes a backseat when it comes to our pup. I’m just cold, that’s all.”

     Stanley nodded, thankful for the reassurance from his beloved. He kissed the inside of Xeno’s wrist when the thought hit him as his eyes met the clock. Shit, they were damn near close to being late! 

     “Sorry, baby, we gotta fly,” Stanley said, quickly pecking Xeno on the lips and bolting off like a marathon runner to grab Xeno’s phone from the bed and dash out of the house. He left Xeno in his wake, eyes wide and full of confusion. His confusion quickly turned to laughter at how cute his husband was, Xeno looking down to his belly as if he was looking down to speak to his child, “sometimes your father gets like that.”

      Xeno followed in Stanley’s rapid footsteps to the doorway, where the mat of shoes was beside it. It was a daunting enough task to even reach down with the small belly he was growing, so he sat at the table and slid on his socks, fighting with the swollen ankles.

~

     “Whaddya think, then? Last time to place in your bets, Xe.”

     Xeno sat in the passenger seat beside his husband, hands over his belly as he inspected the taut skin beneath his sweater. They had gotten to the omega’s clinic just in time for the appointment. Aside from the obvious excitement that filled that truck, the two expecting parents were enjoying their banter of fun with guessing the gender of their miracle pup. Adrenaline and anxiety ran through Stanley’s blood and to every cell, anticipating and longing to meet his baby. That pup was most likely going to be their only child, so Stanley’s genes had better have chosen wisely. It felt like meeting a new person, except this person was his creation with Xeno: sculpted and crafted by the hands of an alpha and omega who loved each other more than anything in that world.

     Xeno’s eyes traveled up to Stanley’s blue ones, “I already told you, Stan, it’s a girl.”

     “What makes you so sure?” Stanley asked, his voice raised as he was puffing smoke outside the truck from his quickie of a cigarette. He made sure to stay far away from the pregnant Xeno, who was already pouting at Stanley’s horrible choice of smoking the cigarette in the first place.

     “As ludicrous as it is, I have no evidence to support my theory. It’s just a hunch,” Xeno replied, very obviously defeated by his admission of guilt into not being able to engage in his science experiment himself. He also wasn’t going to gamble with the life of his pup, which in turn made it the only exception to his rule. 

     Stanley’s flicking and crushing of his cigarette was Xeno’s cue to exit the truck, the alpha rushing faster than ever to help his omega down from the high up vehicle. His worst fear was losing the baby to something as preventable as a trip and fall. He grabbed Xeno’s hand and waist, the omega taking a careful step on the ground and planting his feet flat against the earth. The silver haired omega looked up at his husband with those doughy obsidian eyes, halflidded with eyelashes of the same color.

     “Such a gentleman. Thank you,” Xeno said, pecking his husband on the cheek.

     “Only for you, babe,” Stanley replied, rubbing Xeno’s back and squeezing his ass after a brief over-the-shoulder check to ensure no one was watching them. Xeno had gasped, looking up at his beloved and playfully smacked his bicep.

     “some class, Stanley, for heaven’s sake!”

     Stanley snickered, pulling Xeno to smoosh his shoulder and arm against the alpha’s chest and squish his cheek complimented with a wet, maroon lipstick stained kiss. 

      “Stan!” Xeno whined, “not now..!”

      “I’ll take you being a brat from your hormones, Xe. I can’t be excited now, mm?”

      “I never said that, Stan,” Xeno replied, “we’re in a public place, no PDA for right now. I’m nervous.”

      Stanley raised a brow, wondering why Xeno was the nervous one when he had consistent weird dreams regarding the pregnancy and pup. He couldn’t have that bleeding into Xeno or something, or else they’d lose their pup for good.

      “Why?”

      “For everything… what if I have… more health issues?” Xeno asked, “this is new for me, too, I’m scared, Stan.”

      The married couple intertwined their fingers to walk through the dangerous parking lot. Stanley perhaps was treating Xeno much like the president, like everyone was out to kill him and their baby. The alpha wouldn’t take any chances with his small family after how hard they tried just to get pregnant.

      Stanley stopped under the overhang of the building and pulled Xeno into his chest. Hearing the omega’s admission of fear when he spent his whole life only fearing that he couldn’t learn more, destroyed Stanley. 

      “You’ll be okay, Xe. That’s why we’re doing this together, yeah? Remember what we’d always tell each other as kids?”

       Xeno smiled in the fabric of Stanley’s shirt, his fingers gripping the alpha’s arm like he was hanging off the cliff ready to plummet into a world of pregnancy hell, and the only thing keeping him grounded was his alpha. How pathetic Xeno felt… going from a double doctorate student with a boyfriend/built in best friend to an omega that finally tied the knot with said boyfriend and fell pregnant by him. He wouldn’t trade it, Stanley, or his baby for the world, but he felt like he was losing his love and a side of him he held onto for years: science. He had to part ways with it and become a mother and wife full time with Stanley. That was the true test of Xeno’s psyche- could he even balance his two loves? 

      “Mhm… to the moon and back, Stan. I love you.”

      “That’s right. I love you too.”

~

      The alpha had graciously held the door open for Xeno after a successful calming and love session. Despite all his emotions, Xeno’s love for Stanley was deeply embedded within him like an embroidered text of his wedding vows to the boy he fell in love with many years ago. Stanley followed Xeno into the omega’s clinic, a hand around his waist as a subconscious way of making them both feel at ease. Xeno was at risk all the time and Stanley would stop at nothing to protect him from whatever curveball life decided to throw at them.

     Xeno and Stanley approached the front desk, the alpha keeping a hand around Xeno’s waist. It was his little way of telling anyone else to fuck off.

     “Oh, it’s you again,” the blonde secretary girl behind the desk began, “what’s your name?”

     “Xeno H. Wingfield-Snyder. Could be under either last name or both,” Xeno said, his tone switching to a much more informal one, “that’s one way to greet us, Minami.”

     Minami chuckled as she typed away on her computer, “tell me you’re here for good news, at least.”

     “Of course we are. I’d be in a casket if we weren’t,” Xeno replied, implying he was joking but he really wasn’t. If he lost his pup he’d be a shell of who he was, unable to function and reliant solely on his husband. The omega would rather not think about the worst case scenario, that day was supposed to be happy and exciting- the what ifs couldn’t weigh down the scientist.

    Minami chuckled, finally looking back up at the couple, “Nurse Ruri has a student with her today, is that okay?”

    Xeno and Stanley’s eyes immediately met upon the mention of their traveling nurse having a student by her side. They knew exactly who was going to be seeing them that day. 

     “Absolutely,” Xeno replied. Minami gave him an affirmative smile and continued typing. Stanley had let his arm go from around Xeno in the silence, only filled by the voice of the woman.

    “I’ll let them know you’re here. For now, have a seat, you two.”

    “Thank you, Minami,” Xeno said, waving to her.

    “Don’t mention it. Good luck to you both,” Minami replied, then sipping her coffee from her pink mug, reading ‘#1 Reporter’.

     Stanley guided Xeno to the chairs like a protective alpha, scoping out the waiting area like he had another guy he needed to kill. Any weird or sudden movements would send the alpha into a tizzy, throwing punches and swinging his pocket knife at anyone who dared to touch his precious mate. The TV of the waiting room was on and distracting enough of the people waiting there to see the omega’s health doctors.

     “Stan, relax,” Xeno whispered to his husband, his peripheral gaze at Stanley. Stanley rolled his eyes with a small scowl.

     “I’m not risking anything after last night,” Stanley whispered back, his hand around Xeno’s waist pulling the omega close so they were touching each other, Xeno’s sweater against Stanley’s bare arm. How Xeno was able to wear a sweater in the warmer weather was totally beyond the alpha, but he didn’t dare question his pregnant missus. Perhaps it was instinctual, his claws ready to come out at anyone who casted a glance at his mate for longer than a few seconds. In the back of his mind, Stanley was dreading it. The trip back home to see his and Xeno’s family where they’d be spending the rest of the pregnancy was looming over his shoulder like a demon haunting its victim. He didn’t want to see his mother, or garner any unwanted attention towards Xeno or the pup. They had been through enough.

     Stanley broke the comfortable silence between them abruptly, “I’ve been havin’ weird dreams. About losing you and the pup.”

     Xeno leaned his head against the shoulder of the former Marine. His mind began to wander to the obvious subject of his unborn pup. Who would they become? Did he or she look like Stanley, or Xeno himself? And just what was the gender of the tiny life they worked so hard to create? Xeno imagined a beautiful little girl with long silver hair like him, but with Stanley’s face, nearly cut and pasted. He was knocked out of his daydream haze when his husband mentioned the dreams he had of losing their child.

     “Those are nightmares then, Stan,” Xeno said, looking up to his one and only. He put a hand on Stanley’s chest and locked eyes with him. It was like he stole all of Stanley’s electrons in an ionic bond by the way he held his husband’s gaze.

     “I can’t promise you anything, but I can say I’ll fight like hell and that I feel okay, like I’ll make it. Your head can be your worst enemy and it is best to think about the happy life we’ll have together instead of pondering any what-if’s. Right?”

     Stanley loved how determined his omega was. He was the most headstrong and stubborn person he knew, and he wouldn’t trade Xeno (or the added bonus pup in his stomach) for the world. The man that everyone thought was cold hearted smiled like the teenage boy he used to be, in love.

     “That’s right. Nothing is taking you down.”

     “Mhm. I need to be there to see our pup grow up, and spend those nights with you,” Xeno replied, his head comfortably back on Stanley’s shoulder as his body relaxed. He had to leave science out of that, much to his internal dismay and conflict.    

     Xeno seemed confident, cool and collected, which could surely change at any point from the pregnancy hormones. Stanley knew Xeno was no idiot and decided to mentally swat his annoying overthinking flies away and focus on the moment.

     The TV was blaring yet again with news in Japanese. They’d be going back to the states soon enough, where Xeno would continue the term of the pregnancy and eventually give birth. At least the news in Japan seemed to have fun commercials between the broadcasts.

     “Stan,” Xeno said quietly, “I hate this show.”

     Stanley chuckled, looking down at the beauty he married, “you think the news back home is any better?”

     Stanley realized what can of worms he opened when Xeno lifted his head off the alpha’s shoulder, making eye contact and shifting his hips so he faced him better, his voice going to a whisper-like shout as to not distract the other patients waiting, “Stanley, surely you know how crooked the news has been back home! They are all lying, pandering propagandists!”

     Stanley couldn’t helped but chuckle at how damn cute he was when he got on his conversations of logic when it came to the news. The two were oxymorons to Xeno.

     “Yeah. I know they are,” Stanley replied, rubbing Xeno’s back, “at least they’re dumb as rocks. Makes it entertaining. When we get back home we won’t have to deal with that shit.”

      “I bet they eat rocks,” Xeno spat with venom, pouting. He didn’t like how any higher ups in his home country appreciated the art of science or anything of the sort, so the scientist would often keep his head down or make offhand remarks. With the pregnancy, Xeno’s emotions exploded tenfold and the good, bad and ugly came out.

      “And don’t remind me. I’ll be dreading a plane ride and constant harassment to touch my stomach during my second trimester, Stan.”

      Stanley snorted, pulling Xeno closer and resting his cheek against the top of the omega’s head.

      The pause between the two was comfortable once more. Xeno’s head rested against Stanley’s shoulder as the omega relaxed his body, letting any negative emotions of the negative parts of home go. Forgetting his longing of science and letting go of anything ugly helped relax their pup, too, so fighting like hell came in a mental form for the mother to be.

     The other omegas in the waiting room were called one by one to the doctor’s, until a nurse with long blonde hair and purple scrubs finally peeked out of the door with a clipboard. She had the face of a gentle motherly figure- perfect for an omega’s reproductive health nurse.

     “Xeno Wingfield?” She asked. The omega had opened his eyes and made eye contact with the woman, “right this way.”

     Stanley was shocked at the English that the woman spoke, it was damn near perfect. She must’ve recognized their American names. 

     When the alpha stood he put a hand gently against Xeno’s back, it was delicate, gentle, loving, and protecting. The omega could’ve been in a haunted mansion and he would’ve felt safe with his knight there at his side. Xeno stood with Stanley shadowing his movements and followed the nurse down the hallway to an examination room. That was when it hit Xeno- the many years, blood, sweat and tears shed of just trying to have a decent life and possibly get pregnant all cumunilated to that moment where he stood with his husband. It was the day they’d find out one more piece of the puzzle about the person Xeno was carrying inside his uterus. Stanley didn’t say a word but Xeno read him like a chemistry textbook- his scent was filled with excitement and anxiety despite his pokerface to be polite to the staff.

      “How are you feeling?” The nurse asked, gesturing for Xeno to have a seat on the examination table as she pulled over a seat for Stanley to sit in as a tag-along. Many alphas joined their omegas in these consults, so they came prepared. Other omegas who were single mothers weren’t so lucky.

      “Nervous, excited… hm. I miss parts of my old life. Pregnancy has made me so ill, I can’t do what I used to love anymore.”

      Xeno was clinging onto what dignity that he had left before these women would be poking and prodding at his body. The omega was an intelligent one, he couldn’t lose his cool due to fear or other emotions in front of people that weren’t Stanley.

      “I see,” the nurse replied. She scribbled something down on her clipboard, leaving a long pause before she spoke back up again, “I’m very sorry to hear that. It’s not easy for a lot of omegas.”

      She looked back up at the two and took a seat beside her computer, crossing one leg over the other and leaning in to begin a conversation, “my name is Ruri, I’ll be your nurse today. Correct me if I’m wrong but you two are here for finding your baby’s gender?”

       Her voice was soft and sweet, like a songbird in a meadow. Stanley decided to take the reins in the conversation to save Xeno any stress and feed his alpha side that instinctively wanted to protect his mate in any and every way.

      “Yeah. I’m the alpha- Stanley. Nice to meet you,” Stanley replied, shaking the nurse’s hand. 

      “It’s a pleasure to meet you both. Are you two married, dating?” Ruri asked to start some conversation.

      “Married for 5 years,” Stanley replied, “we’ve been together since our teen years. Had a lotta trouble conceiving, so Xeno and I are just a bit on edge.”

      “Oh no. I understand. Can you tell me more about that?” Ruri asked, her face turning from pleasantly happy to concerned. Xeno looked at Stanley, who was looking right back at him like they could read each other’s minds. Xeno decided to speak up, being the patient and all.

     “I’ve been nothing but sick. My shoes are tight on my feet, my heart feels like it’s racing and I’ve been cold all the time. I know, the days haven’t quite spiked in heat, however, I’m not normally sleeping with my comforter in the middle of June. I’ve gained several pounds, Stan’s felt my legs and said it feels like water weight. I know that’s a normal sign, and some days are better than others but it’s a slow decline for me, I believe. Motherhood hasn’t been kind to me.”

     Xeno looked down at his swollen legs and feet. He felt like he was losing his own body and succumbing to a higher power. He knew it was a miracle to bring a baby into the world, but damn was it hard. He’d do it for his child; not a single other omega said it would be easy.

     Ruri nodded in understanding, “I completely understand. Just know we’ll do what we can to help alleviate your symptoms and still focus on the baby’s health.”

      Ruri glanced over to the door, then at her computer. She fully anticipated her student arriving at any time. As she typed on the computer with the description of symptoms from her patient, she paid no mind to the couple in the room. Stanley was scrolling on his phone when Xeno cleared his throat to garner attention from his husband and earned it in rapid response. Stanley’s piercing blue eyes met the doughy pools of black, the two being able to communicate with their gazes alone. Xeno’s was of anxiety, longing for Stanley to get his ass off the chair and come sit with him. Stanley’s gaze softened the moment time seemed to stop. He stood and made his way to the examination table quietly so as to not disturb Ruri, who was typing away. He put his strong arm around his mate, the feeling of a safety blanket coming over Xeno to relieve any anxiety that he or Stanley had.

     There was finally a knock on the door after moments of comfortable silence and the typing of the nurse. Stanley’s scent had calmed down, which gave a domino effect to Xeno’s own nerves. The two always had each other at the end of the day and Stanley was saving Xeno no matter what. 

     “Come in,” Stanley said, turning his head so his chin rested on his shoulder. When the door opened, Xeno couldn’t have been more relieved. Finally. A familiar person he’d been speaking to on and off throughout his early pregnancy. She’d need to write a nursing report  on him from time to time, so she happened to know more about Xeno’s condition than Ruri did.

     Yuzuriha Ogawa walked into the room, greeting everyone with a depression-curing smile. She held a notebook to her chest, her shy demeanor all too apparent to the nervous Xeno. They’d feed off each other if one was too anxious for the other. 

     Stanley pulled away from Xeno and took a step back from the examination table to let the girls do their work. Xeno had a look of panic in his doughy, deceptively cute eyes. Stanley gave him a nod of assurance and looked to Yuzuriha, who was closing the door slowly, giving Xeno time to pull himself together. 

     “Hi, Dr. Wingfield!” Yuzuriha said, “I guess I should start at how you’re feeling. How have you been?”

     “Not too great. I’ve had better days recently, but I’ve still been staying in my bed for more days than not.”

     “Any luck with your science experiments?” Yuzuriha asked. As an omega, her and Xeno clicked, understanding each other on a level Stanley couldn’t relate to. He was the only alpha in the room, so naturally he did feel a little out of place.

     “No such thing. I’ve been sitting in my bed, sleeping, working with my students on my laptop or curled up on the couch with Stan watching movies,” Xeno replied. Honest- he had to be, for the sake of his health and pup.

     “Have you and your husband been sexually active during your pregnancy?” Yuzuriha asked, leaning against the counter where the sink was. She had her clipboard of student notes up against her arm and pen in hand to jot notes on Xeno as they went on.

     “Oh, my… um…” Xeno replied, looking over to Stanley with a look of guilt, and blush covering his face. That was quite a question for the genius doctor to answer. So, this was where it was going to get awkward! Especially with his attractive husband in the room- he assumed the girls were taken, yet it made him uneasy regardless.

     “We haven’t had much sex,” Xeno replied, “I’ve either been too sick, tired or just not interested, much to his dismay. We used to do it many times a week, now Stan does his online schooling and chores, while I work on my laptop… eat, and sleep.”

     “Oh, I see. That’s normal for a lot of omegas. Ruri has told me stories, but it sounds like you have a good husband by your side,” Yuzuriha replied, winking at Stanley, who merely grunted in response to pretty much being outed to a couple of omegan women he hardly knew. Yet, they were empathetic all the same.

     Yuzuriha knew how hard it was for alphas to go long periods of time without sex from their mates. When Xeno showed no interest in touching Stanley for the majority of the time (Stanley happened to get lucky that morning), the alpha knew it was somewhat his fault for knocking Xeno up to begin with- so he never held it against his mate.

     Yuzuriha and Xeno continued their cute friendship and discussed Xeno’s symptoms. As a student, Yuzuriha tried to get as much information on her patient as she could, Ruri observing and guiding her along the process. Xeno did as Stanley had always told him- be open, and honest, as difficult as it was for him.

~

    “Just like that, perfect. Now, it’s going to be cold, okay?” Yuzuriha said. Her first ultrasound was on Senku’s friend, teacher, mentor, and former babysitter. The stakes were high.

    “Oh, I remember,” Xeno chuckled, looking over at Stanley still sitting in his chair, hands on his knees as he was hunched over. Xeno could see how uneasy he was- the alpha was craving a cigarette. Cigarettes didn’t take priority over Xeno, however, and Stanley got up to go over to his other half and hold his hand. Xeno’s bump was small, just barely noticeable, in fact, but so damn precious.

     Stanley couldn’t help but run a hand over where there wasn’t gel. That was the closest he felt to his pup, and Xeno. 

     Yuzuriha booted up the equipment and got her probe with Ruri at her side, guiding her in how to use the machine. Using it in a classroom was one thing, but on a real expectant mother was a whole other ballgame for the young and anxious omega’s nurse in training. 

    Yuzuriha guided the probe along Xeno’s belly, catching the image of a small pup on the screen of the ultrasound. She locked eyes with Ruri to find their conclusion on the gender and give Stanley and Xeno a moment where no one was staring at them. She whispered to her mentor nurse, the two giggling with excitement.

    Stanley threw his arms around Xeno, burying his face in his shoulder, “you’re amazing, Xeno.” 

    Xeno put an arm over Stanley’s head and kissed his temple, “you helped me get here, Stan.”

    They both directed their glances to the screen, watching the pup move their arms, like it was cupping its face from shyness or trying to sneeze. 

     Ruri turned her chair to face the loving couple and smiled, her hands on her lap. She was confident in the results, and with Yuzuriha’s findings. They exchanged nods and looked over to the expecting parents, like a kid just eager to tell a secret- it was all in their faces.

      “We wanted to inform you that your chances of getting pregnant were about 5% or less. Dr. Xeno, your pup, who we will know the gender of, is nothing short of a miracle!” Ruri insisted, then gestured to Yuzuriha to reveal the news. She looked so excited, like a star ready to burst into dust with the cosmos.

     “It’s a little girl,” Yuzuriha said, a smile so contagious that it made the already overjoyed parents emotional. Ruri cheered for them, clasping her hands together and watching the scene unfold before them. Stanley hugged the life out of Xeno’s top half, his face buried in his shoulder like they were glued together. Xeno’s warm tears ran down Stanley’s neck and shoulder. It was really happening, they were going to be parents. Xeno was over a quarter of the way done, what was three more?

     “Oh my god, Xeno. Oh my god,” Stanley chuckled, wiping his tears away. That day marked as one of the happiest of both of their lives- the day their pup revealed one of her many little secrets as she grew. Stanley held Xeno with less force than he did before those 13 weeks and let out his emotions, disregarding everyone in that room except for his mate, like the cosmos wrapped its warm, endless arms around the two, pulling them closer and closer. It was really happening, each day Stanley got closer and closer to being a father, and somehow more in love with Xeno.

Chapter Text

4 days later, 6:37 PM - Wingfield-Snyder Home

     “And so I told her everything. Yes, really! I’m so sick, I can’t do anything. My legs are swollen and my veins are varicose. She’s killing me, Senku!”

    Xeno sat up in his bed, satin long sleeve nightgown loosely flowing behind him and onto the pillow. He was talking with Senku over the phone and telling him the great news. Of course, dramatics played a part in the hormones of pregnancy, so Xeno’s inner circle was more than used to it at that point. Senku had dealt with Xeno since childhood, he knew him like the back of his hand. Xeno’s varicose veins were no joke, causing light edema in his legs and his feet to get cold easily, despite the springtime making way for summer. Senku was wrapping up his semester and Gen was wrapping up his tour, the two invested in their crafts before seeing each other soon.

     Xeno had noticed after the visit to see Yuzuriha, that one varicose vein popped up in his leg just a couple days ago. Then another. And another. He was up to three, and after chatting with Yuzuriha via text, she gave them a place to order socks that would compress Xeno’s legs down and get his blood flowing properly. So, he had his legs elevated on a pillow, compressed in socks and lethargy so bad it felt like it could take down an elephant. 

     “Yuzuriha did wonderful, yes, she has been a great support and we are learning together,” Xeno said after a long pause and sigh, “I’m letting it set in. Senku. I’m having a daughter!”

     Xeno felt tears welling up in his eyes, instinctively covering his mouth with his hand to prevent any sobs. He just wanted to hold his baby, lay with her between him and Stanley as the world passed by around them. Speaking of Stanley, the alpha was in the kitchen, cooking dinner for his little family. Xeno didn’t leave bed unless he had to pee (which was rather often), or if Stanley forced him to move around, cuddle or watch a movie on the couch.

     “I really am happy for you, Xeno. I know how much this means to you,” Senku responded, a smile ever present in his tone. He really wanted Xeno to be happy, even if he didn’t voice sentimental, illogical stuff like that. For once, the kid showed compassion! “Oh and old man, I meant to tell ya. I’m in your class next semester in the fall.”

     Xeno’s eyes went wide and he gasped into the receiver, the tears that had welled up in his eyes long gone because of the sudden shift in conversation (and hormones), “Senku, that’s wonderful! Simply elegant! I haven't had a chance to look at my class list yet, however, I’m looking forward to this. I won’t be doing anything in person, as I’m due Christmas Eve, it will still be online only. I’ll be too pregnant to do anything. Feel free to come by if you want to do experiments, assuming I haven’t asked you already.”

     “I get it, I get it. Still, get excited!” Senku chuckled, “we can finally make some waves in the scientific community!”

     “Oh, absolutely, indeed. For I have several things I’ve been contemplating about, for example, my baby’s name. I’ve been fascinated by the constellations my whole life. Particularly, I have been researching Lyra, and I think the name suits a girl. Unfortunately, constellation names tend to be more masculine in nature-“

      “Why don’t you just ask Stanley?” Senku chuckled, interrupting Xeno’s barrage of intellectual thought vomit on the other end of the phone, “it’s what I’d do for Gen.”

       “Yes, yes, of course I will consult Stan. I just need to form a hypothesis before I present my experiment to him. Then, Stan can do anything I ask of him, as he is my knight- so we’ll name our pup accordingly and tailored to our interests.” Xeno said, spoken like a true diva- adjusting himself so his legs were propped up on a fuzzy blue pillow with a glass of ice water in his free hand that Stanley had given him earlier.

       “Pft,” Senku snorted, “that’s a long way of saying you’re naming her.”

       “I am not!” Xeno insisted, “I’m fueling my future daughter’s scientific ability by tying her to that world and my love of the galaxy!”

       “I’m just teasing, doc, name her whatever you want,” Senku responded, ending his teasing early to not piss off the pregnant omega. He decided to change the subject, discussing how to properly celebrate their older kids’ return home and the pup’s gender. Senku quickly got back on track to small talk about life with Xeno.

      “I have my last exam in a few days, then I’ll be back home. Gen’s got two more shows and he’ll be here then. Do you have any plans to celebrate your news back in the US?” Senku asked, curious if Xeno and Stanley were leaving back to their home country of the States before Senku and Gen could catch them in a week. Even if he didn’t outwardly say it, Senku and Gen wanted things to work out. They wanted to celebrate the pup. She would be a huge part of their lives in several months.

      “I believe we aren’t leaving for home for another several weeks, if that is what you’re asking,” Xeno responded, understanding the deeper meaning of Senku’s question. He didn’t want to leave his two older kids either. 

      “Ah, alright. So Gen and I will come over in a week, then. Think you can hold out until then?” Senku joked with his signature chuckle.

      “I can’t say if I’ll survive or not,” Xeno replied, just as sarcastic and with a dramatic sigh to accompany it, “you’d leave us waiting that long?”

      “Good reactions don’t always happen in seconds,” Senku replied cheekily, “for example, doc, take the growing of bamboo,-“

       “Yes, yes, Senku, I understand. Bamboo is the fastest growing plant and yet still takes time. Your joke landed. I thought Gen was the comedian!” Xeno laughed in response. He knew he was pulling Senku’s leg as he was to his mentor, the two were more than capable of bantering back and forth all night.

        After more brief catching up, Senku finally decided to head in for the evening, “alright, Dr. X, I’m heading in for my ramen and going to bed. Got that exam coming up that I need to rest for.”

        “Sounds like a plan. Best of luck to you, Senku, I know you’ll do an elegant job.”

        “As will you. Don’t work Stanley too hard,” Senku replied, “see ya.”

        “Talk to you again soon,” Xeno responded, Senku then hanging up the phone. Damn it all. Senku’s ramen nights were always the best, and instead his roommates (and childhood best friends) got the luck of the draw that time.

         The omega sighed, leaning back against the pillows and slumping down. His phone was on his chest, the small breasts he had propped his phone up to level with his face, showing his screen light up with a text from his mother. Great. Both Mrs. Wingfield and Mrs. Snyder were itching to hear from their children. It didn’t take a genius to know they were talking together. 

       Xeno’s parents were workaholics and often left Xeno to their live-in maid, who looked after the two children with Xeno’s own sister, Estelle, while their mother kept up her luxury fashion business. Even Stanley’s mom fed Xeno more than the omega’s own mother. 

       Xeno’s father was somehow never home, always running rampant on whatever business trip he had been seeking next. The omega barely knew his father- knowing more about Stanley’s abusive alcoholic father than his own simply depressed Xeno. Now the old man wanted his son to drop everything and go back home when he was happy in Japan? Xeno would be damned if he left so early on, he wanted to at least see Brody, Senku and Gen before their American friend’s contract was up in Japan. 

      The brilliant science driven omega stared at his ceiling, his phone buzzing again from a second text. Reluctantly, he picked it up and his eyes grazed the screen to see who had decided to bother him on that day. His mother sent him a message of concern, but mainly towards their grandchild, not Xeno himself.

     Xeno,

          Your father and I love and miss you more than anything. Please let us know if you are having the baby back home and if you are coming back. We have things planned to celebrate your pregnancy. We would also love a copy of the ultrasounds if you can print them out. I hope you are healthy and okay. We cannot wait to meet the little one! 

      Love, mother & father

      The other text was from Xeno’s sister, eight years his senior, who didn’t have any pups or mates of her own as a female alpha. It was quite comical, Xeno’s blue collar father got a faulty secondary gender for his male and female children. Xeno knew it bothered him to the core from the day he started presenting. His parents wanted it to have been Estelle with the pup, and Xeno didn’t let that bother him one bit.

      Xeno, I’m at lunch from work, you have got to send me the latest ultrasounds. I can’t wait to meet my niece/nephew. Are you and Stanley coming home to have the baby? Mom and I were thinking of doing a gender reveal for you two, throwing in an anniversary party for you and Stanley the same day later this summer. Let me know, okay? Love you. I’m so proud of you.

      The omega got ready to type out a reply to his family, but decided upon worrying about it later. Estelle was always more heartfelt, despite her abrasiveness, she’d always have a soft spot for her little brother. 

       He wanted to share a dinner with Stanley soon and soak all his time in with Stanley before the new family member joined them.

     Xeno decided he needed a shower, standing from his bed and brushing down the satin garment over his body. He glanced outside his room, past the living room to spot his husband at the stove. He had something going over the stove and the oven was on, meaning only one thing- they’d be eating well that evening. Stanley seemed like his full focus was on the food and not towards Xeno- making him vulnerable. Xeno had a brilliant idea- one of thousands that he thought of every day. 

      Stanley was a marine veteran and Xeno knew that all too well, so he’d sneak up on his husband in a different fashion- one that he’d certainly appreciate. The omega, quiet as a mouse, slipped out of bed and tiptoed around the living room, taking cover behind the small wall partially separating the kitchen to the living room. He waited until Stanley’s back was turned to him, and he pounced like the world’s cutest mouse.

     Xeno grabbed Stanley from behind, hugging his waist and burying his face completely in his shoulder crook.

     “Stan!” Xeno said to his husband, “I love you!”

     Stanley’s vocal cords and body flinched, the sudden jolt from his neurons sending his embraced body into a rapid defensive jolt that he was accustomed to during his time in service and chasing a gasp to escape from his maroon painted lips. Thankfully, he knew it was just his best friend that he married, and his relaxation came quickly after the seconds-long stress response. 

       “Jeez, Xe, I love you too. Feelin’ alright I take it?” Stanley asked after a small chuckle and smile, his head over his shoulder for at least some semblance of the beauty behind him in his peripheral vision. Stanley’s heart skipped a beat when he felt the bump of Xeno’s belly against his backside, and his breath hitched. The third member of the family had insisted on being included- was she a sniper, or a scientist? 

      “Never been better,” Xeno replied, burying his face in between Stanley’s shoulder blades. He sighed contently, his hands around Stanley’s stomach and feeling his toned abs. He was warm, and Xeno’s hands were cold to the touch, Stanley could feel it from under his shirt.

       Several moments of silence went by, Stanley going between checking the oven and stirring the pot on the stove while Xeno clung to him like a shadow during a sunny day. It was comfortable, domestic, loving and romantic. Stanley knew Xeno wasn’t as interested in doing the dirty stuff and didn’t care for doing strenuous tasks, so he didn’t dare ask anything of his omega while he was in a good mood.

      “I heard you talking to Senku,” Stanley began, trying to start a conversation with Xeno about what he was up to and mainly making sure he was behaving himself; not committing evil activities that were too demanding was Stanley’s job to monitor for pertaining to Xeno.

      “Yes, that’s right. We discussed our class together this fall, the pup, and her potential name,” Xeno replied, “I told Senku my ideas. Perhaps it’s time I tell you, then.”

       Stanley heard the smirk in Xeno’s voice, mentally kicking himself for the blood rushing south at the omega’s purposefully teasing tone. He had to mentally fight off the guilty as sin thoughts about Xeno to avoid succumbing to instincts.

        “I’m wondering if I should be offended or not,” Stanley snorted, “you told the leek before me?”

        “Oh- well, when you put it that way-!” Xeno gasped, blushing across his face, then going right back to smirking, “I’m sorry, Stan, I really am. I was just excited. When we got home you were busy and I didn’t want to bother you.”

        “It’s okay. But now you gotta tell me the name ideas.”

        There was a pause between the two of them because Xeno’s hands wandered over Stanley’s body, feeling each muscle. It turned on the alpha more than it should’ve- because they hadn’t been doing nearly as much sexy stuff since Xeno’s gotten bigger and sicker. He was treated that morning, so Stanley knew better than to beg like a dog- despite knowing deep down, he was nothing but a barking mutt for that omegan scientist around his waist. Xeno was merely using Stanley’s body as somewhat of a stress ball and a way to show his husband he loved him. There was no way Xeno wanted to have sex, the alpha knew him well enough to decipher that from his mannerisms. If Xeno really wanted to do it, he would’ve grabbed Stanley’s cock by that point.

        “I am quite happy with Cassiopeia, a personal favorite of mine from the constellations- or Lyra, another constellation that’s smaller but quite beautiful,” Xeno explained. He was going off once again about his undying love of his science, and their baby’s name would reflect that. Stanley respected it- after all, they created her out of their love for each other, it only made sense to name her after something or someone they loved. When they were kids, they’d lay together in Stanley’s backyard outside a pitched tent and watch the stars, little Xeno pointing out constellations to the young Stanley. Stanley didn’t care all too much about the constellations- as beautiful as they were, they didn’t compare to Xeno. Those eyes were always locked onto the silver haired beauty that laid beside him in the grass during those warm summer nights, when all they had to worry about was school and avoiding Stanley’s parents like the plague.

        Stanley placed the stirring spoon down beside the pot and turned around, hugging Xeno around the waist as he faced his mate. Oh, how beautiful pregnancy looked on Xeno. He was glowing. It was like he got more beautiful by the day, Stanley seeing his reflection in the glimmer of light in the omega’s eyes - quite the oxymoron of how horrible and sick he felt within his own body.

       “I like it- Cassiopeia, I mean. We could call her Cassie. Good thinkin’. Then again, that’s all you do,” Stanley joked, giving Xeno a massive, maroon lipstick colored peck to his comically big forehead. 

       “Elegant! I know she’ll be as beautiful as her father is,” Xeno insisted, his face in Stanley’s chest, listening to the beat of his heart speed up from his comment- Stanley was easily flustered at times, but didn’t outwardly show it. Xeno could be bratty during this pregnancy more than he was intelligent, which was saying a lot, yet Stanley knew he meant what he said. The love they shared was true, they were two halves of a whole.

        “Xe,” Stanley chuckled, “thanks. I'll be pretty damn happy if she’s like you, though.”

        Xeno laid contently against Stanley’s chest, a happy hum of approval from his throat. The alpha simply rubbed his back, resting his cheek against the top of Xeno’s head. He’d savor every time Xeno wore his hair as natural as it came- without his signature pompadour and hair gel- his silver hair  just down, flowing to his shoulders. It had grown longer since he first fell pregnant and Stanley was loving the longer hair on Xeno, framing his glowing face and cute forehead.

        Stanley’s phone began to vibrate with a call and the rolling boil of the pot turned to a more violent one, the hiss of the water spilling over startling Stanley back into reality.

        “Let me take this while I go smoke, baby. You take your shower,” Stanley said, his multitasking marine soldier mode in high gear as he hastily moved the pot off the burner, then switched it off. He kissed Xeno’s forehead and shuffled for his phone and pack of smokes in the pockets of his jeans. Normally, Stanley smoked in the house, but was officially on a hiatus of bringing carcinogenic smoke in the same house as his unborn pup. Which meant he cut back on smoking in general, sending Xeno into a state of happiness (when the dawning realization hit him) he hadn’t felt since he finished his last big project with Senku on the rocket prototype that was still in his closet. He had spent his whole life begging the alpha to quit- maybe the pup was their golden chance.

        “Okay,” Xeno answered, disappointed. He watched Stanley speed walk out to the porch, a cigarette between his painted lips. The omega heard the melodic beauty in his voice as he answered the call.

        “Hey, ma. Yeah-Yeah, we’re good,” Stanley began, waving to Xeno as the closing of the outside door behind him led to the fading of his soon to be muffled voice. Great. Stanley’s mother was a coin toss of a conversation with her only son- their relationship was rocky enough as it was, which meant a couple things: Stanley would need some tender, loving care later, cuddles, or a couple drinks.

       Xeno turned and went back into his and Stanley’s bedroom, rummaging through his dresser drawers to find a gift mailed to him from his older sister two weeks ago. It was a long, black satin nightgown with short sleeves and white buttons down the center. He didn’t feel satisfied wearing his own clothes, and with a huff, investigated Stanley’s dresser. Several t-shirts later, he found one that was at Yellowstone national park, 2005. The time they went together with Stanley’s big sister. Stanley got the biggest shirt he could find so, according to the then 12 year old Stanley, he’d ’never grow out of it’. It was a weekend Xeno would never forget. 

       The omega threw the massively oversized 3XL shirt over his shoulder and then grabbed his accompanying black towel, promptly shutting the bathroom door so he could take in the heat of the shower in a vacuum of heaven. 

Chapter Text

After Xeno shut the door, he stripped off the nightgown, his underwear, then socks and walked over to the mirror. It displayed his body from the knees up in full glory, meaning he got a perfect look at his figure- the figure he was very focused towards. He put on several pounds already. He’d never wear a corset again, not for at least a year. It drove him crazy! Just how big was he going to get? He couldn’t wait to have the pup, he just needed to sustain her properly for over half a year.

       Turning to his side, Xeno inspected his newly formed body. When a male omega was pregnant, they matched their female omegan counterparts much clearer- and Xeno could see it clear as day, observing every part of his stomach and running a hand over it. He had small forming breasts to accompany a small baby bump that was just noticeable enough of a protrusion from his abdomen. His mating mark was a dark shade of pink, unusual for how it normally was. His body had changed faster than he could keep up with it. Because he was mated to the father of the pup, an omegan mating bite darkened during pregnancy so any smart and respectful alpha would know they were mated and leave them alone.

      Still, Xeno stood with pride, for he made it incredibly far in his life- two PhDs, a student just like he was and a full online class, two homes in different countries and an incredible husband to share it with. Finally, he got the pup he always dreamed of with Stanley. All those mornings he’d wake up in his husband’s arms after sleeping with him, sticky between the legs from Stanley’s knot and praying for a miracle that never came. Until it did. Several years of marriage later, and it happened, against all odds. A person that would be a perfect balance of Stanley and Xeno would be walking beside them someday, and they couldn’t wait to meet that person. It would be worth every drop of blood, sweat and tears he went through during all those heats, then the pregnancy and eventually labor.

       Xeno turned his body to inspect it from different angles, a smile of pride and joy decorating his face. How he missed his smile- a smile as genuine as he was brilliant. He’d protect his baby girl by eating well and resting, and Stanley would protect them both by doing everything else. He insisted upon it, simply responding to Xeno’s request of, ‘Stan, can you promise to protect the pup and I with everything you have?’ With, ‘I can’.

        Adjusting to the pregnancy and motherhood was something Xeno had time to prepare for. Letting go of science would be the inevitable, hardest, and most agonizing change. He’d have more sleepless nights than he already did, surviving off coffee and love for his family. He anticipated breastfeeding the pup, meaning she’d be attached to his hip after her birth and keep him from doing what he loved. The last time Xeno hadn’t done experiments for long periods of time was during finals in college. His smile quickly faded, the omega taking in a sharp inhale to soothe his nerves for the future.

       Xeno had to brush off any doubts or worries he had about his changing body. For this was for the best, he’d return back to what he once looked like when his pup was born and when she became somewhat independent. Even if it took years… he’d be focused solely on his family. It was a huge change for him, and he had many months to prepare and embrace for the impact. No science, no experiments, just the baby. It was a change he was scared to death for but would welcome with open arms. Stanley and Xeno had tried for years to have a baby of their own, so their miracle was a once in a lifetime chance for Xeno to love someone as much as he loved his husband. He already did love her like he did Stanley. 

      The omega warmed the water by letting it run for a minute that he spent inspecting his body again. He stepped into the shower, the hot water running down each part of his body, warming his chest and steadying his breathing. Xeno’s silver hair fell down to his shoulders- it had grown much more since he fell pregnant- and he ran his fingers through his hair and over his stomach. So many thoughts of deep space, his pup, Stanley and their sex life, deep space, that rover they sent to Mars a while ago and much more raced through Xeno’s head. He had to consider what the nurse said about his libido and possible symptoms. 

      Xeno washed his hair and in every crack and crevice he had. He had such a grueling pregnancy so far and only deemed it elegant and logical to maintain his physical health for at least some mental fortitude. The omega hummed a tune he knew since childhood while he tried to apply the metaphor of letting the water “wash away” everything he felt. He knew it was stupid, that it was like a teenager’s idea of washing everything away, yet he needed something to cling on to. Unfortunately, his overactive mind wouldn’t let him do that so easily.

     ~

     Stanley had initially planned on making his outside trip that of just a lonely cigarette to take the edge off before he was to finish dinner. Instead, what he got was possibly one of the worst phone calls from his mother that he had gotten in a long time.

      The alpha sat on one of the two chairs within their mesh wrapped porch so the cold dusk summer air sent chills down his spine, the high of the nicotine helping him relax as he breathed out smoke. On that porch was Stanley’s chair and then Xeno’s beside him, a table in the middle with an abacus and an ashtray. Very fitting for the two of them, when they’d sit outside in the summer and eat on their porch, like it was their honeymoon all over again. This summer, with the pup Xeno was carrying, Stanley would have to improvise on the smoke breaks. 

      Stanley’s mother was the first to speak to her only son on her end of the phone from all the way back in Texas. She was worried to talk to him and based on what she was about to tell the protective alpha, she should’ve been even more scared.

       “Stanley, dear, I just got a call from your father asking for an update on you kids. I told him about Maryanna’s last semester coming up, Phoebe’s pups starting summer break and your pregnancy with Xeno. He seemed very proud, I-“

      “Ma, to hell with that piece of shit, do not fucking talk to him! Are you out of your mind?! What’s he gonna try to do, smother my kid this time instead of Mari? One day he’s calling me ‘faggot’ and wishing I was never born just for being with Xeno and now he has the audacity to ask about my kid? I will fucking kill him if he ever talks about Xeno or my pup, ma. I can. You know I can.”

       Stanley’s teeth had nearly gritted the cigarette down flatter than a pancake from his anger. He hadn’t gotten as heated as he was in years. Just hearing the mention of his father was enough to set him off. If it was one thing Mr. Snyder had lost (other than his freedom, family and dignity), it was his ability to beat Stanley in a fight. The old man was past his prime and was long succeeded by his only son, giving Stanley a sense of cockiness he hadn’t felt against his pathetic father in his whole childhood. 

      Stanley’s phone was gripped tighter in his fist than ever before. Hearing his mom had willingly contacted his dad out of some sick Stockholm syndrome made his stomach turn.

      “As your father, I thought he had a right to know, Stanley. It slipped from me, I apologize, that is my fault. I-I spoke with the girls about it beforehand-“ Stanley’s mother was all but cut off again by her son. This woman always let the men in her life shut her up, and usually Stanley wasn’t okay with that. This time was different, however. His mom was pushing his buttons and had no right to do what she did without consulting him.

      “HE IS ANYTHING BUT A FATHER!” Stanley bellowed, “you talked to everyone but me, or hell, even Xeno! That's nice. Fuck off, ma. I tried to make this work. I tried. What kind of shit is that old geezer planting in your head? Did you just… forget what he did to you and Mari? Get the fuck away from him, ma, or don’t talk to Xeno and I. I’ll give you a choice. You can choose your son and Xeno, who have stuck by you despite what you did, or that piece of shit who hurt us. Your pick.”

      Stanley’s finger then smashed the hang-up button, leaving his mother with one simple task and one alone. He knew his lovely interaction with his mom would circulate between their families and, for once, the alpha truly felt at peace. He didn’t care, his priority completely shifted to pregnant Xeno. 

      His relationship was rocky with her since the day she tried to explain away what their father did to her, letting Xeno’s mother scold Stanley’s father on the front yard when the two boys got home from school and Mr. Snyder hit his son out of drunken rage. She let him walk all over her, even after he tried to strangle her and smother baby Maryanna, the youngest Snyder child. Stanley’s mother was a weak woman from her continued abuse and truly a victim, hence why her son stuck by her. It wasn’t her fault his dad was a piece of shit. However, endangering Xeno and their unborn pup was the line in the sand that Stanley needed to draw and had no issue with doing it. After all, Xeno supported him more than his own parents did, ever since they met as young kids. When they started dating as older teenagers, they became even closer, more trusting and more intimate with each other.

      The alpha needed more than just one cigarette after that. He’d need to talk to Xeno about what happened, without completely exploding on his already pregnant wife who had been through enough. Stanley had to step up in their relationship since he saw that ultrasound in Xeno’s gift. That time was no different. Maybe he could put the Swiss Army knife Xeno got for him to good use and have Senku and Gen help him hide the body of his abusive father, who blatantly took advantage of their vulnerable mom and to get information from her.

      Stanley’s shaky hands fumbled with his pack of cigarettes. He managed to get yet another out, pressing it between his stained lips and flicking his ‘X’ engraved lighter to ignite it from another gift Xeno made for him a couple years ago. He took in one of the biggest inhales of his life, feeling the heavyweight blanket of anxiety slip right off his shoulders with the exhale of toxic smoke.  

       “Fuck..” the alpha sighed, tilting his head towards the ground in defeat. How the hell was he going to explain this to Xeno? His father demanding to meet the pup and his mother doing nothing to oppose the old geezer was a nightmare to deal with when they’d inevitably go home. Stanley felt like he’d be carrying Xeno and the pup right into a trap- he couldn’t do it in good faith to a stranger, let alone his small family. The pup they tried for years to get would never see the man Stanley called a father.

       Stanley sat there, enraged, hands still shaking despite the cigarette’s calming effects. He pulled out his phone and immediately opened the contact for his elder sister, Phoebe. The woman who knew him second best, only to that of Xeno. The alpha didn’t care if he typed a rage text to his sister. She’d understand, she wouldn’t take it personally when the hotheadedness of a Snyder was most prevalent in the only son of the family.

      Ma just called, saying dad wants to see my baby. You have some explaining to do. You’ve seen this shit back at home. What the fuck is going on

      Stanley didn’t think twice before hitting send. His sister had seen worse from him and he wasn’t particularly mad at her, his mother dragged her and the youngest Snyder child, Maryanna, into it as well. 

       With that, Stanley puffed out the smoke of his cigarette and let the waves of the high take his anxiety with them, blowing like gentle wind into the dusk, warm early summer sky.

~

       Xeno emerged from the shower and grabbed his black towel, embroidered with an ‘X’ and wrapped it around his waist and below the bump. He knew damn well it was just Stanley with him, yet his insecurities still consumed him. He wrapped a smaller black towel, embroidered with the same ‘X’ around his slightly above-chest length of silver hair. It had grown a couple inches due to him neglecting to cut it during the first trimester.

       The omega inspected himself in the mirror the entirety of the time he dried off his delicate, porcelain colored body, without a single blemish or birthmark aside from his new varicose veins. They could cause fluid to retain in his legs and thus more of the weight he was dreading to gain just to sustain a baby for 6 more months. Anxiety. Cortisol coarsed through his veins. Not again. Xeno couldn’t let his professional, hardworking mind slip into the primitive realm of human fear. Fear of the unknown, fear of death, fear of losing his baby, or himself. What if he pushed, and then everything went dark? Xeno couldn’t fathom making Stanley a single father.

      No. No. The omega turned on the sink, then slammed his hands on the counter, leaning over to watch the running water like it was a tiny cleansing waterfall. His thoughts could go down the drain with every drop, as to not consume him from his bones to his epidermis, leaving him like stardust for the cosmos to consume.

      Shelving the thoughts like old, outdated books on why the earth is flat, Xeno slipped into loose fitting underwear and then threw on the massive Yellowstone Park t-shirt that belonged to his husband. Yuzuriha was on his case about loose fitting pants and underwear, ranging from boxers to panties (gravitating more towards female omegan clothes, as female omegas get pregnant more often and had the upper hand in maternity wear). The rules on compression socks were firm and the omega reluctantly forced them up his legs from his sitting position on the toilet. He grabbed his hair brush, running it through his silvery locks. There was no need to gel his hair into a pompadour- he had no one to impress anymore and his dignity was leaving with the bigger his stomach and legs got. On his way out, he passed on his satin black robe with an ‘X’ embroidered on the upper left chest of it, over the pocket. A common trend of Xeno’s clothes, truly. It was unlike him to pass on the robe after a shower, yet he truly wasn’t in the mood for it.

      Stanley would understand Xeno’s lack of elegance in the outfit he wore at the dinner table. The fact he was there was good enough for his beloved alpha. Most nights, Xeno ate in bed, refusing to get up for anything unless it was movie night on the couch and he got to snuggle with Stanley in another place.

      The scientist stepped out of the bathroom, still feeling like a zombie despite how clean he actually was. He yearned for his husband, peering out of their bedroom, through the living room and seeing the kitchen was nearly prepared for dinner. Stanley seemed… off. Xeno knew when the alpha was upset, he could read him like a molecular formula with a slight imbalance in electrons, so he’d harass his love at the table and squeeze what was bothering him right out. 

      Stanley was in the kitchen, finishing off what was in the oven and over the stove. He prepared some seasoned chicken for them with rice, green beans and a veggie filled soup on the side, full of nutrients for Xeno and the pup. The alpha was unconsciously slamming the drawer of utensils and fridge which caught Xeno’s attention, as he leaned in the doorway of the living room to the kitchen.

      “May I kiss the cook?” Xeno joked, strutting over to Stanley and planting a kiss on his cheek anyways. The former marine ruffled Xeno’s hair and smiled half heartedly at him, adding the last touches to the final plate and looking back into his eyes after breaking contact. He was trying desperately not to explode after the phone call with his mom. He needed to get it off his chest and Xeno knew something was wrong with him. That omega was too damn smart and able to call Stanley’s bluff, even through a loving gesture just trying to make him feel better and butter him up to talk.

     “Only if you tip me. Foods up, Xe.”

     “Oh?” 

      Xeno decided Stanley’s “tip” could come in full another time, and settled on leaning into his chest and closing the gap between their lips. Over a decade of being together and after 5+ years of marriage, Xeno was never tired of Stanley’s lips. The man was a masterful kisser and Xeno was in adamant denial about it being because of his experience with being a playboy back in high school.

      “Love you, babe,” Stanley said, “I needed that.”

       his tone was soft and almost defeated. Something was wrong. He was normally more heartfelt. Xeno’s mind began racing. No. He couldn’t cry! In the past, Xeno would logically and elegantly sort out any problems between him and Stanley or if anyone from outside their relationship caused something- which seemed to be the cause of his husband’s distress that night. 

      “I…. I love you too, Stan!” Xeno blurted, his eyes filling with tears. He threw himself into his husband’s arms, a stirring spoon still in Stanley’s hand and a couple stains were on his shirt. 

       “Xe… what’s wrong?” Stanley asked, fearing the worst. Xeno’s hormones were all over the place and therefore caused the erratic and sometimes spontaneous crying. 

       “Y-you’re upset. T-that makes me ache, Stan, deep down. You… you’re… my everything. Who c-could do such a thing to you?” Xeno bawled. He gripped Stanley’s shirt in his fists, tears soaking into the alpha’s shirt. 

       Stanley’s mind went right back to the day at the airport when Xeno broke down crying in the same pregnancy haze, 12 weeks ago. His hormones did that to him- the true Dr. Xeno never cried over something so trivial that he could solve with that massive brain of his.

        To be a good husband, Stanley acted quickly. He tossed the spoon in the sink and hugged Xeno back, combing his fingers delicately through the silvery, soft and wet hair of his omega. He cooed to Xeno, “shh… it’s okay, doll, shhh… I’m okay. Mmmm… I’m fine, Xe.”

       Stanley slowly and softly swayed back and forth with Xeno in his arms, comforting his love like he was singing a lullaby. In fact, Stanley was a half decent singer, deciding to sing to Xeno to make him feel better while he sobbed. The song he knew was a song they enjoyed from a classical record that Xeno’s old maid (his guardian instead of his busy parents) would often have playing in her room.

       “Everybody loves somebody sometime,” Stanley sang angelicaly.

       “Stan…” Xeno sobbed, gripping his shirt tighter, “St-Stan… n-not now..”

       “Everybody falls in love somehow,” Stanley continued, ignoring Xeno and intertwining their fingers. He went from a delicate sway, to a slow dancing motion. Xeno didn’t fight it, instead sniffling and hanging his head. He didn’t leave much distance between himself and his husband, wanting to be as close to Stanley as he could.

        “Something in your kiss just told me” Stanley sang, leaning closer until he was inches from Xeno’s face and lifting his chin, “my time is now~”

         The alpha didn’t take any protests from Xeno. He knew the little shit wanted it, pressing their lips together. When he got a positive response of kissing back from Xeno, Stanley tilted his head and deepened the kiss, Xeno allowing Stanley to dominate him and letting out a small whimper to show his enjoyment.

         Stanley pulled away, Xeno’s obsidian, doughy eyes staying glued to the brown honey-pooled beauties that were Stanley’s eyes. He had the attention of Xeno. It was working. To Stanley, he was merely singing his loving heart away to the one person whom he loved more than anything- to Xeno, Stanley was a dashing knight, sweeping him off his feet and serenading him before they had a candlelit romantic dinner.

        “Everybody finds somebody someplace,” Stanley continued after pulling away, continuing the slow dance with Xeno. It was like their wedding night all over again- magical. Ethereal, breathtaking.

        “There’s no telling where love may appear~” Stanley sang softly, caressing Xeno’s chin and up to his cheek, cupping his perfect, soft and glowing face. He had never seen pregnancy look so damn beautiful on anyone else.

        “Something in my heart keeps saying,” Stanley sang, pausing for a second to admire the adorable blush all over Xeno’s cheeks. He had his chin in his palm, his thumb caressing the bottom lip of Xeno. He was flustered and smitten after sobbing in Stanley’s arms just a moment ago. The former marine was no miracle worker, but he sure knew how to romance his omega wife.

        “My place is here~” Stanley finished. He leaned in, kissing Xeno again. That time, much more intimate and warm. He wrapped an arm around Xeno’s waist and the other on the back of his neck, pressing their bodies together. Xeno tilted his head that time into the kiss, his arms around Stanley’s neck, holding on for dear life- as if his husband would slip away from him at any second. He went from distraught and crying over Stanley’s pain to smitten, completely seduced and romanced by Stanley’s singing voice and intimate dance with him in their kitchen. 

         “Oh, Stan…” Xeno swooned once they pulled away, a warm smile across his cherry red cheeks as he wiped the last of his tears away with the back of his hand, “so.. romantic. I’m falling for you again, every single day…”

          Stanley was nearly driven to an emotional state from what Xeno told him. For the sake of the pup and Xeno’s stress, Stanley suppressed it to not stress out the omega, “it’s an honor to be yours, Xe. Never thought I’d break that exterior.”

         “You did that the day we met, Stan,” Xeno insisted, letting out a sigh of content and nuzzling Stanley’s shoulder in their hug. If he could, he’d stay there forever, as long as Stanley was by his side. 

Chapter Text

        The newly serenaded Xeno didn’t take his eyes off Stanley at the dinner table. The father of his pup might’ve been even more beautiful from the hormonal haze. Of course, the meal Stanley made was delicious, and the pup would be getting all the nutrients she needed to be able to grow.

      While Xeno’s soft, doughy eyes were on his husband, he was listening to everything Stanley and to share with him and the reason Stanley’s own emotions made Xeno cry in the first place. Of course, it had to do with Stanley’s parents. For as long as Xeno could remember, Stanley’s mother and father always found ways to upset their little boy. Now, their boy was a grown man who would stand up for his little family and protect them like they were a sacred underwater treasure yet to be discovered by anyone besides Stanley himself.

      “I told her to make a decision. Me and you, or that old fucker,” Stanley said, mouth half full from chewing on his green beans and chicken, “ ‘cause I can tell ya right now, babe, if I brought ya or the baby around him, he’d… I dunno. Don’t even wanna think about it.”

       Stanley looked to his glass of wine and took a sip, needing to take the edge off after the little stunt that his mother pulled. 

      “I’m sure you broke the news to her elegantly,” Xeno replied sarcastically, “I understand your hostility, and I respect whatever decision you choose to make. Just keep in mind, your mother loves us, and she is a very broken woman. Do not make any big leaps in judgement while the wounds are fresh.”

      Stanley nodded, waving a hand dismissively to Xeno, “yeah, I know, I know, man. I’m just gettin’ fucking tired of her excuses. It’s one thing to mess with me. But you? And our daughter? Not happenin’.”

      “You’re absolutely right. However, let us give her a chance to prove herself, since she is making the effort. Let’s see what her next move will be,” Xeno replied, scheming once more with his husband, “if she plans her own downfall from grace, so be it. You have every right and power to cut her out. However, I’m not sure if my mother would handle it well.”

      “Don’t give a fuck,” Stanley replied bluntly, taking another bite of his dinner, “she’ll live.”

      Xeno let out a small laugh, Stanley giving crass replies to every ounce of logic he tried to use. Xeno always being objective, whilst Stanley suffered and writhed with his parents his whole life. The alpha had far less tolerance for their bullshit and Xeno knew it. 

      The couple continued eating in silence after Xeno’s laugh when Stanley very suddenly and out of the blue, broke the silence with a peculiar question to his omega. What better time to do it than at that moment, when they both were having a romantic dinner?

      “So, I was thinkin’ on taking on a project for the baby, since she’s comin’ faster than we know,” Stanley began, locking eyes with Xeno and giving him a smile, “I want to add an extension to this house. It’s too small for her. Whaddya think?”

       Xeno had to process what Stanley was talking about, his brain firing off hundreds of scenarios, layouts and blueprints like one of Stanley’s automatic rifles. He placed his fork down to initiate his thinking pose with his hand, resting it against his temple as he contemplated.

      Stanley’s project? He proposed to his husband to add a second floor to their house with a room for the baby, a guest room, and a small living/playroom for their daughter. Then, a basement, for Xeno’s lab and Stanley’s workout equipment so he could stay in shape while fatherhood reared its head and Xeno could continue doing science.

        “Elegant as always, Stanley Snyder, I quite like the idea and have the perfect thing in mind. But, how will we fit this in banking wise?” Xeno questioned, “there is no way the Marine Corps would help us after parting ways so abruptly.”

       Xeno was looking for how Stanley would troubleshoot their not-so-infinite money supply. Xeno wasn’t working after a completed online semester and was on maternity leave from JAXA and NASA for safety and his high risk pregnancy. Stanley abruptly retired from the Marines and with that came insurance, their home, and some money on the side to buy stuff for the baby. But not enough to renovate, especially with the plans Xeno and Stanley each had in mind.

        “I take up more jobs, work part time a-“

        “Do not leave me for that long, especially during the day, Stan!” Xeno blurted, his mood switching to slightly agitated and embarrassed as he tried to control his hormones, “part time jobs are off the table when I’m pregnant. Apologies.”

        Tread carefully, Snyder, or you’ll piss off your pregnant wife, Stanley thought, a common tidbit from his commander in the marines was to never press the buttons of a pregnant omega, he spoke from experience. He had to think of something.

         “Okay, okay. Part time is off the table. Like we talked about before, I’ll just put some bullets in the heads of rich guys from afar, right? Won’t even know I’m gone, I’ll go at night. How’s that? I dunno if we can afford our house back home, we may need to pick one or the other, like sellin’ o-“

         “Forget the houses… you can’t leave me alone for a job when I’m sick! What if my blood pressure, veins, blood sugar, or my headaches- you can’t leave me for so long. I’m scared to be alone. We need someone who will help us with one or two simple jobs, and then end it there. We need… a wealthy fellow.”

         Stanley stood up from his seat and was walking towards Xeno, kneeling down beside his chair and giving him a kiss to ease the bubbling tension that was just beginning to boil over. Xeno was the smartest guy Stanley knew- a double doctorate and teaching students of all shapes and sizes- yet pregnancy was totally alien to him. Being an omega with fertility and heat issues was something Xeno was more than used to- he struggled with it his entire life. They had the conversation before with Stanley’s shady gigs, but the worse Xeno got made him more reluctant to have Stanley away from him after his husband made a miraculous full recovery. He had a couple ideas for how to mend the situation of him being gone overnight to kill rich guys, each scenario playing out in his head rapid fire.

       Then the day happened where Xeno inevitably did fall pregnant, he was embarking on a ride of a lifetime. So far, he hated being pregnant, but knew it would be worth it in the end. All those days he came apart and lost more bits of himself that could be picked back up when he circled back to that path in his mind. He had every right to be terrified, but Stanley would hold his hand through every hardship, sickness and contraction. Stanley already had a plan: send Senku and Gen to look after the pregnant Xeno when he wasn’t home, and was off killing rich guys for money. Maybe they could cut the number of tasks Stanley needed to do in half if they simply got in contact with the right guy.

       “Long before we got married, I made a promise to you, Xeno Wingfield,” Stanley said, cupping his lover’s face, “that I would always protect you and stay by your side. When you were bullied, I made that promise and kept my word, my wedding vows just set them in stone. I will battle on the frontlines as much as I need to, to ensure this home is ready for the baby. If I need to kill to make it possible, so be it. We have Senku and Gen. they can help us. Right, baby?”

        Stanley inspected Xeno’s glowing pregnancy face. The glow made him look like total angelic eye candy, the alpha would have a hard time peeling his eyes off something so damn beautiful.

      “I can’t prevent everything but I can and will drop everything in a heartbeat for you and the baby. I’d leave you with Senku and Gen, and we can build somethin’ to help your body. That is my idea and promise to you, Xeno, my liege.”

      “You are so romantic this evening, is it your rut coming-? Stanley, your body is as confused as mine. Oh, well, for heaven's sake, who cares!” Xeno cried in joy, throwing his arms around his husband. First they danced, shared their romantic dinner and Stanley was sharing newly edited vows to Xeno, including their pup in the mix of things. Xeno would entertain Stanley’s idea, his husband was intelligent in strategy and planning an attack. If Stanley’s rut was coming, his body must’ve gotten strange signals from his mated omega, and thus, his rut would be upon them.

      “Cry on me one more time and I’ll have to sing again~” Stanley sang, teasing Xeno. He hugged the omega back, running his left hand through the silvery hair of the genius in his arms. Xeno’s hair and Stanley’s wedding ring sparkled and shined from the candles on the table and mini chandelier above them. Stanley didn’t intend on giving Xeno a little honeymoon and romantic candlelit dinner that night with a side of tea: shit talking their family.

      As much as Stanley was eager (and also hesitant because of the danger level) to entertain the idea of picking up more jobs, it wouldn’t be easy. He was scared, anxious, uneasy- like a looming shadow was hovering over his shoulder, begging to shake him to his senses and have him bring up the elephant in the room. The near-miss encounter from before that could’ve easily ended in tragedy, and the loss of Stanley’s entire family.

      The alpha felt a pang of somberness as he hugged his most precious, beloved thing in the entire galaxy. Pregnant Xeno was a treasure, a treasure that must be protected by the ghost of a man who can disappear with him in his arms into the night, never to be found by the Yakuza.

~

      Stanley was of course the unfortunate soul on dishes duty, meaning he’d be scrubbing each and every plate from the past few meals before he would rendez-vous with Xeno on their couch for movie night. The couple didn’t often argue about the movie they were planning on watching; until Xeno got pregnant. It was like he wanted to debate with Stanley on what movie was objectively bad (if it was the acting, cinematography, special effects) during nights he was in a bad mood. 

      Stanley had chosen The Godfather, Mission Impossible, or Reservoir Dogs as his movie picks. Xeno, however, was more interested in a documentary on the latest Mars Rover, Clueless and The Matrix. Stanley appreciated one thing about Xeno on movie night: his palette was colorful. 

      While Stanley did the dishes, he heard Xeno rustling in the living room and getting the pullout couch-bed (that he created on a week off from teaching, about a year ago) ready to go for their cuddling and movie night. Xeno had something booted up on the TV, Stanley heard the voices from the living room. 

       “Whatcha doing, babe?” Stanley shouted from the kitchen, when it finally hit him. Xeno was messing with him.

       “Just getting situated!” Xeno replied, the sneer little grin on his face present in his tone. Stanley wanted to smack it right off him with his lips. The TV had sounds of cheers and applause from a crowd, when it went silent for a moment. Xeno turned up the volume of the TV during the brief silence, probably after calculating the time and thinking he was slick. Then it started. 

       “This one’s from way back in the day!” A male voice said on the TV, “played it at my daughter’s wedding, so now, I’m here to play it for all of you!”

        More applause, the sounds of cheers and the song started.

        “Everybody loves somebody somehow

         Everybody falls in love somehow

         Something in your kiss just told me

         My time is now”

         Stanley’s soldier heart skipped a beat when he heard the all too familiar song. Desperate to share another dance with Xeno, he scrambled the last two dishes and bolted into the living room, pouncing on Xeno (gently, of course) and grabbing the smirking omega’s hands. Xeno had set out the bait and lured in the hungry alpha (who was preparing for his rut) for attention. Despite being pregnant, Xeno’s fertility and complicated body confused Stanley’s inner, mated alpha, sending it down a spiral maze leading to a  dead end.

        “You little-“

        “Let’s dance, alpha~” Xeno cooed, holding Stanley’s hands at the edge of the couch.

        The alpha lifted the omega up, putting an arm around his waist and intertwining their fingers on the other hand. Xeno comfortably rested an arm around Stanley’s neck, feeling the duvets of his claim mark with his long, bony fingers. 

        As the song played, Stanley and Xeno began to slow dance in their living room, swaying back and forth. The moment was tender, romantic and emotional. Xeno and Stanley wouldn’t have the chance to be all over each other when the pup was born, so they had to relish every small opportunity that they got. 

       Stanley led the dance, guiding Xeno with him and swaying his beautiful, glowing omega. His silvery hair flowed with each sway and movement of their feet. 

       “If I had it in my power,

        I’d arrange for every girl to have your charms

        Then every minute of every hour,

        Every boy would find what I found in your arms,” Stanley sang with the guy performing on the TV. Xeno was completely under his husband’s spell and the genius knew he was- yet he didn’t care. He let every worry, anxiety and feelings of sorrow leave his body with every step they took. Xeno trusted Stanley with his life, heart and soul. He left it in the hands of a loving man who would die for him and their unborn pup.

       The omega didn’t take his eyes off Stanley, each second was more than enough for him to want to dramatically fall into his husband’s arms like a Princess after a broken curse. 

        Xeno took it upon himself and decided to make the first move, to catch Stanley off guard. Being sung to was unlike anything of Xeno’s wildest dreams. The omega closed the shrinking gap between the lovers and kissed Stanley deeply, his hand snaking back down his jawline and holding his chin. Stanley wanted to worship Xeno’s body, praise how intelligent and strong he was, bark for him like a dog and make him scream as he filled Xeno’s body with pleasure. 

        “I love you, baby,” Stanley whispered, both their eyes still shut from the kiss. Their lips were millimeters apart, warm breath against Stanley’s face with the scent of pregnant Xeno all over it. It was enough to send Stanley into rut. He could go into total rut. 

       “I love you too,” Xeno replied, sliding his hand up and down Stanley’s body, then cupping his cheek, “my most elegant knight.”

       Xeno’s voice was like the perfect pricking of an angel’s finger across a harpsichord, sending chills up the alpha’s spine and right to his dick. Stanley was sure he was entering a rut, despite what he did to suppress it, he couldn’t keep it down forever.

       “Baby… fuck. You’re so hot,” Stanley whispered, “I’d worship your pussy like you’re a goddess.”

        Xeno blushed, regaining himself and smirking, “prove it, then.”

        Stanley was ecstatic; Xeno said yes to sleeping with him, and he’d enjoy every moment of it. That entire night was built on anticipation, romance and excitement- it was finally time to let it all come out. He wasted no time in scooping Xeno up, and carrying him to their bedroom. The door was left slightly ajar as the two began going at it. Stanley’s shirt and jeans were abandoned on the floor with Xeno’s (really Stanley’s) shirt, leaving them both in their underwear, anticipation nearly suffocating.

       Stanley dominated their encounter, wanting to live up to what he said before. He’d worship the pussy he was married to, that he knocked up, and that he’d be responsible to take care of. Xeno was his and his alone, just as he belonged to Xeno.

       The alpha slid down Xeno’s black panties, tossing them to the floor and wasting no time in diving head first to eat Xeno out, sucking on the clit and licking wherever he could to get those chills up his lover’s spine. Worshipping Xeno’s sacred rose between his legs like a temple, building up their baby deep inside for Stanley to anticipate every single day. It wasn’t fair, Xeno got to be close with her and Stanley had to wait half a year just to see her face. 

       Xeno’s back was arched on their bed, hands gripping the sheets in ecstasy. He couldn’t get lost in that haze of sex like he usually did with Stanley, shame, guilt and omegan overactive hormones filling his body like putting hydrochloric acid near, well… anything. Stanley’s scent got more potent, his rut peering over the shoulder of his husband, ready to take over his body. It was nothing like Xeno’s pre-heat scent, yet the functions for each secondary gender were similar- they both wanted one thing when the time was right.

      “St-Stan! Ah~!” Xeno moaned, subconsciously bearing his neck to the alpha for scenting during penetration. Xeno got stuck in his own mind, lifting his head to see Stanley between his legs. Stanley’s long, mascara-covered eyelashes fluttered as he went to town. Stanley’s scent of early rut nearly took Xeno into a dreamlike state, like he entered an evergreen pine forest with some vanilla. Stanley’s other scent of cigarette smoke was an added and reluctant welcome addition to the package.

      The alpha was practically eating Xeno alive, running his hands up and down the side of the omega’s wide, dipping waist and hips. Xeno moaned, whimpered and grinded his body against Stanley’s in a subconscious motion, the rhythmic shifting of their bodies got them both more aroused. Yet, something wasn’t right, and Xeno whimpered, lifting his head up to find the captivating, vixen-like eyes of his husband. His whimper was not the type to be one of pleasure- and Stanley knew that. As selfish as he could be sometimes, Stanley wasn’t about to do something to Xeno that he didn’t consent to being done.

       “X-Xe?” Stanley panted, hair an utter mess and sweat forming on his forehead, “you okay?”

       “I-I want to stop…” Xeno whimpered, “I don’t want it tonight, Stan.. I just want to cuddle with you.”

        Good things never lasted forever. Stanley knew that. However, being left completely blue balled was not on his bingo card for the day. He was utterly crushed, and even somewhat hurt, as if he didn’t do enough. The alpha’s brown beautiful honey colored eyes went wider than their dinner plates from earlier, and then he quickly regained himself to stop from any emotions consuming him while the spontaneity was fresh. Maybe Xeno would change his mind, or maybe not.. He was so damn close to his rut, it could come at any point- he was desperate.

       “Mkay, sure,” Stanley replied, getting off Xeno and sneaking a kiss to his swollen belly as if he was saying hello to the pup, and goodbye, because her mother wouldn’t let him do anything more until she was born. Like hell he’d swallow his pride if Xeno chose to be a brat and wanted to leave him with blue balls all night.

       “Stan, I can explain-“ Xeno said, sitting up on the bed with an arm around his belly, “please, I just… I feel horrible. I can’t get into the moment. My leg hurts, I have a headache, I.. I feel nauseous again…”

        Stanley rummaged through his dresser drawer with his back turned to Xeno, searching for pajamas to put on so he could crash in bed or even on the couch. He listened to his somber partner begging him for forgiveness and understanding with an open mind.

       “It’s fine, Xe,” Stanley sighed, looking over his shoulder at his love. There was clear and abundant hurt in his eyes, but also acceptance and understanding in his expression with how soft it was. He slid into his boxers again, running a hand through his slightly tattered hair when he lifted his head back up. He was still erect, Xeno saw it clear as day. It was hard not to. 

        “I get it. Don’t worry about it,” Stanley finished, slipping on some plaid pajama bottoms and deciding to pass on a shirt. Kneeling down, he fished for his cigarettes and lighter from the pocket of his jeans he had been wearing before. He went back into the living room to start up their movie and continue on with their plans for the night, but not before a smoke.

        “Stanley Snyder! Get back here!” Xeno called from the bedroom, asserting himself, “don’t think I can’t smell the early rut on you!”

        “I mean, it’s pretty obvious,” Stanley shrugged, “don’t worry about it. Just focus on the baby and keeping dinner down, Xeno. I’m goin’ out for a smoke. Be right back.”

         Stanley was somber, his tone caring but disappointed and almost dismissive of Xeno. It was like he gave up, his night was terrible, great, and then terrible again. He tried what he could and was let down. Despite him knowing it was the hormones and not Xeno trying to be awful, it stung.

        “Stan!” Xeno called from the bed, hearing Stanley’s departing footsteps to the porch with no response. The alpha probably had more plans than just smoking a cigarette while out there. 

         The hurt truly set in while laying naked in their bed. Xeno had second thoughts about refusing Stanley’s advances. He hadn’t done that sort of refusal thing unless he was really, really exhausted, angry, busy or when they just started dating. For a year, Xeno didn’t sleep with his best friend despite their romantic relationship. When the time came, it was intimate and beautiful, done in Stanley’s bed on an off night during summer after high school graduation. His parents were on vacation, Phoebe was out with friends and Maryanna was dead asleep on the downstairs sofa. The omega would never forget it.

         Xeno came back to reality and got up from the bed, rubbing his belly and reaching for his discarded clothes on the floor. He slid into the panties he had on before and threw the oversized shirt from Stanley right back on. He couldn’t keep it down, however, and bolted to the bathroom- throwing up in the toilet, and all over the toilet seat. How inelegant, humiliating and frustrating. Xeno gripped the edge of the seat until his knuckles were as white as his hair was, and released them after a sharp exhale. Even the most simple of requests from Stanley wasn’t met. What was wrong with him?

         “Stan’s… Stan’s dinner…” Xeno said, flabbergasted when putting the pieces together on what came out of his body that should’ve gone through his digestive tract. He couldn’t cry- not when he was the one who did Stanley wrong. He’d just have some leftovers tomorrow and snuggle his husband to bed (if he’d let him).

         According to Yuzuriha and her higher ups, Xeno’s second trimester was approaching, which meant his pregnancy hormones would plateau and reduce his nausea greatly, replaced with kicks from the baby, and potential circulation issues. Great. If all went according to plan, Xeno would be more prone to hypertension, diabetes and other circulation problems rather than electrolyte and diet issues. The girls predicted hypertension based on what Xeno was running, which gave the omega a small idea while he was contemplating life in the bathroom. He had to hold out until Christmas Eve, the day he’d give birth. Although it was only mid June, Xeno had to fight. 

         The silver haired beauty turned his attention towards cleaning up his mess after he nearly got lost in his thoughts without a map. He left the bathroom once things were cleaned, trying to find Stanley and see if he was back in the house after his cigarette. Xeno held his belly in the darkness of the house, peering through the open door of their bedroom to see Stanley in the kitchen, finishing the dishes that he abandoned for their spicy night gone awry. 

        “Stan?” Xeno called to his lover, who was scrubbing Xeno’s own plate. The guilt and emotions really set in. Stanley made him dinner, then Xeno rejected his advances and threw up the food his love made for him. He felt like a cartoon villain of conniving evil.

         “What’s the matter?” Stanley asked, not looking up from the sink. He was clearly still hurt yet not neglecting the needs of Xeno- because neglecting Xeno meant neglecting his child, too.

         “I’m sorry,” Xeno mustered out, slowly closing the long distance between the two until he stood in the doorway of the kitchen and living room, not far from Stanley.

          “It’s fine, Xe, I told you,” Stanley insisted, still not looking up, “don’t worry so much about it. It hurts, yeah, but I’ll get over it.”

          Xeno fought his tears away, trying desperately to keep himself composed and his usual elegant self. Stanley saw the good, bad and ugly of Xeno and there was no use hiding it- his husband was in too deep. The omega couldn’t take it anymore. He ran to Stanley, throwing his arms around him and sobbing profusely into his shoulder.

        “Stan! I l-love you, so, so m-much! You’re the light i-in my darkness, father of m-my pup, I-“

        Stanley almost dropped the plate in his hand, initially not reacting to the sudden change in tone of their conversation. He tensed up when Xeno’s arms wrapped around him- Xeno taking note of that and sobbing harder. Fuck. Stanley could curse internally for fumbling the bag as many times as he wanted, but he had a situation to diffuse, and fast. Xeno was being the most dramatic, theatrical mess he had ever seen, and he couldn’t have been more honored and glad to love every part of him to the cellular level.

        “Shhh, Xeno, it’s okay,” Stanley sighed, “stop crying. I-I’m fine, really. I am! Hey, I’ve got an idea.”

        Xeno sobbed into the bare skin of Stanley’s back, his hands gripping the alpha’s toned abs like he was hanging off a cliff. 

         Stanley sighed, turning around so he was facing Xeno and his back leaned against the counter. He wrapped his arms around Xeno’s waist, looking into his eyes with his own beautiful brown vixen eyes, sculpted and shaped by the finest eyeliner and mascara Xeno could make. 

        “Relax, doll, really. It’s okay. Just wish you told me before I got all hot and bothered. But it’s fine. Okay?” Stanley insisted, lifting Xeno’s chin with his hand so he’d look into his eyes, “where’s my evil genius? You’re never this upset, Xe.”

        Of course Stanley knew where Xeno was. Devoured in a pit of pregnancy hormones. But did Xeno know that? Perhaps not.

        Xeno sniffled, obeying his husband by going along with his gestures in an attempt to cheer him up. Xeno would humor him, as Stanley did proclaim to have an idea.

        “Mhm…” Xeno replied, wiping the tears away with the back of his hand, “Stan… p-please don’t leave me!”

        “Xeno- geez, I would never leave you! Just because you don’t wanna sleep with me one time doesn’t mean I’m gonna do anything like that. Be logical now, Xeno,” Stanley said, getting progressively more stern, “we need to focus on the baby. There’s changes we need to do, and things we gotta talk about. Follow me?”

         Xeno knew Stanley was right. He was a man of logic and reason, not letting his heart scream and tear him apart from the inside out. He caught himself in the trap and didn’t know how to get out of it. Still, in the state he was in, he could listen to what his husband had to say. Perhaps Stanley was more ready for the sacrifice that came with an additional family member than Xeno, despite Xeno being the one carrying the growing pup as it sucked the life from him. Xeno was far used to having Stanley around with his science- being pregnant for 13 weeks wasn’t enough time for him to truly get accustomed to the gravity of inevitable change. It was slow, progressive, and the belly was a constant reminder. He’d need to sacrifice his spare time for experiments, paperwork, teaching, NASA and JAXA to be a full time mother once he got too big and would have to give birth. That pup was the manifestation of his love with Stanley; they created it out of the love they had for each other, and Xeno loved that pup more than life itself. Every day, he fell more in love with his baby, eagerly awaiting to hold her in his arms when she came out of his body. A small mixture of him and the man he loved more than the distance between the sun and Pluto. Maybe Xeno could get used to it- parenthood didn’t sound so bad.

          “B-but you… Stan…” Xeno said breathlessly from sobbing profusely.

          “You know what’ll make me feel better?” Stanley replied, “caring for you and the pup. You two are my priority, and anyone who gets in the way of that will lose. So let’s talk, ‘kay? Future plans, you internet sleuthing while I’m running bullets, you know.”

       Xeno sighed, wiping the last of his tears, “so long as we invest in bulletproof windows for your truck.”

          Stanley took Xeno’s hand, bringing him to the living room to discuss what truly was important. Their lives were going to drastically change in 6 months, and they needed to be well prepared for it. Xeno wasn’t thinking nearly as well as he usually did, so his husband would help guide him.

           Stanley sat down on the couch, Xeno plopping down beside him and grabbing a folded up blanket on the back of the couch to curl up into and get his legs warm.

           The couple first discussed their plans for where they’d have the baby, Xeno insisting on just Stanley in the delivery room and not a single other family member there. As much as he loved Senku and Gen, he didn’t want them seeing Xeno at his absolute lowest: screaming, crying and potentially getting cut open. The elegant scientist that Senku and Gen were attached to would be naked with no dignity intact if they were in that room with him while he was pushing. Xeno shut that door, refusing anyone in that room aside from his nurse Yuzhuriha, doctors, and his husband. He needed his pride at least somewhat intact.

           They had considered having the pup back in the States, until the topic of selling their American home came up. Houston was where Stanley and Xeno were born and raised and where their families resided for, well…. Ever. Their love for Japan blossomed in the late teens. So of course, they were attached to both homes. 

          Xeno had to use that massive brain of his and weigh the pros and cons of what Stanley was proposing. They helped each other form a plan of action, using the window of time they had until Xeno couldn’t function well without Stanley to their advantage when the end of the pregnancy was closer.

          Take up a job or two from a rich guy for home extensions in Japan, then fly back to the states for a baby shower, list the old house and come back to Japan to have the pup. By the time they came back, the house would be done, and it would be winter time. It was easier on paper, of course, but the former marine and scientist quite liked the idea. They had weighed out their options and chose their Japanese family over their biological ones. Senku and Gen were more like blood to Stanley and Xeno than most in their family. It would be hard not seeing their families for most of the year, but visits were never out of the question. Their privacy was guaranteed back in Japan- no overbearing mothers. Just Byakuya, who knew the memo and when to give Stanley and Xeno their much needed space.

          Xeno decided to dig even deeper. He had a proposal for his husband- an offer Stanley may not want to pass down.

          “Stan, I believe Senku knows a man who is quite wealthy, he had mentioned him to me during our rocket testing just before I got pregnant,” Xeno insisted, “if we go along with extending our home, the money from our sold house back in Houston will not come right away. We need some leeway. I can always go to help out JAXA as needed. They know I’m pregnant, I had the conversation with them and NASA is okay with me on leave as well, because I cannot always work from home.”

          Stanley leaned close to Xeno, immediately shutting him down, “absolutely not, you’re not working. Let me handle that. And why would I go to a mutual friend for a job? Don’t tell me ya forgot what happened last time, Xe.”

      Stanley recalled Xeno’s rocket still just in their closet and the countless testing him and Senku ran on it until their little miracle was conceived, and the test deemed a failure just before that.

         “Of course I didn’t forget. What I’m saying is, this time could be different,” Xeno insisted, “as I assume you’ve noticed and internalized your past mistakes? You’re my most elegant soldier, I know you can do it. I would help you, of course, but…” Xeno trailed off, deciding to let the ache of dreaming to be a dynamic duo go as he rubbed his baby bump. This was the only way Stanley was getting any sort of income. Part time jobs were off the table and murdering rich guys at night was the new “in”.

       “We just get the person’s name from Senku, reach out with a fake name and that disposable phone that is collecting dust in my filing cabinet, and the rest is within your grasp,” the pregnant omega finished. He knew he was doomed to be a housewife even after he gave birth, but that wouldn’t stop him from egging Stanley on if they needed the money. His evil plans had to be fulfilled by his elegant knight rather than him doing it himself.

          Stanley, however, truly wasn’t willing to gamble with the lives of Xeno and his unborn child. He thought they were going to be murdered the last time he took up a job from one of Senku’s friends. Then again, Stanley made a rookie mistake of using his real name and being sentimental. The early prospect of fatherhood was making him lose focus. He got sloppy, too emotional, and nearly lost Xeno and the pup. He was conflicted, and it was obvious by the look on his face. Xeno knew him too well to simply brush it off. So instead, the scientist would talk his husband into it.

          “Xe, listen, doll. I’m not gambling away your life or the pup’s. This baby is a miracle. We can’t lose her. Not because some prick I ran into shot you dead. Your blood- my baby’s blood- would be on my hands!” Stanley insisted, clearly and blunt, ready to snap. He put a hand on Xeno’s belly, the other cupping his cheek. Stanley still looked hurt from before, his eyes soft and sad. The smell of an approaching rut was permeating Xeno’s nostrils and making his inner omega come out of his little cocoon of self doubt and pregnancy anxiety. Maybe he could give Stanley what he wanted. 

          Xeno, trying to keep his composure and think, formulated a response. He was doing so well! He couldn’t lose it to emotions yet! Stanley was emotional with an approaching rut, and Xeno was pregnant with rampant hormones that fought to overtake his rational thoughts. Until they didn’t. It was a dangerous chemical reaction begging to boil over and tip the scale that Xeno loved to put his gloves on for and tackle head first. Still, that didn’t stop the elegant scientist from concocting an adequate answer to his beloved Stanley.

          “You would not be gambling anything if it wasn’t Stanley Snyder that was fulfilling the one, rich boy-assigned duty bound to fill our pockets. One and done.”

        The room went silent, Stanley keeping a hand on Xeno’s belly and the other on his cheek. His belly felt firm and strong, the uterus shielding the pup as best as it could. Surely the pup knew that it was just her father.

          “Keep talking. Maybe you’re right,” Stanley replied, blushing, and somehow partially missing the mark of scheming evilly with Xeno; passively looking down at Xeno’s small bump. He was visibly flustered (a true rarity for the sniper), even slightly anxious to go along with the softness of his eyes from the emotional rollercoaster he endured earlier. Properly sleeping with Xeno again seemed like a distant dream.

      Before Xeno could reply, Stanley added to his short statement to confirm the couple was in it together, “Xeno. I’m going to trust your judgement. Truthfully, I’d rather not do this, but… what other choice do we have?” Stanley sighed, “and it would keep me in shape, I guess.”

        “Exactly. I sacrifice whisking you away for a mere couple days, and we’ll have the remaining amount of money we’ll need to extend our home. We need to give you a fake identity to continue on these ‘jobs’ of yours, Stan. We can create a fake ID for you on my desktop, and I can make you a new shade of lip stain, or-“

         “Yeah, yeah. No need to redo my whole getup, baby. I’ll just go without makeup.”

         “Stan! You’re simply an exceptional soldier, there is no debating that. It’s more to do with making you… less Stanley, more… someone else. A ghost. Someone who only exists when my husband has a rifle in his hands, and coat hiding his face. We can create a person who supposedly appeared from nothing as a hitman, and disappear into the night as quickly as he appeared. You take your sum from your client, escape with an unregistered vehicle from Taiju’s university shop. I can ask Yuzhuriha to contact him on our disposable phone.”

         Stanley, elated by Xeno’s plans, switched his gears completely and kissed Xeno on the lips. Even pregnancy or Stanley’s pheromones weren’t enough to stop Xeno’s scheming, it was like making rail guns as kids, except this time it wasn’t a week in jail- they could face life in prison. As an alpha, he knew it was easy to overpower an omega when a rut was approaching him. He would never do something to Xeno that he didn’t want, and a kiss to Xeno was expected of Stanley. Any sort of romantic gesture created a fire in Stanley’s gut of anticipation to his alpha pheromones, a release of his evergreen scent filling the room while kissing Xeno. The omega was the one who pulled away, sensing just how needy Stanley was about to become and wanting to avoid the triggering of rut for as long as he could. The silent agreement was present between them both, and Stanley was satisfied with a kiss back from Xeno. It was a kiss of pre-rut tension and a victorious triumph between a couple ready to kill and the other to pull the strings from the very comfort of his bed with a happy baby, heating pad and bottle of prenatal vitamins.

          “Xe, you’re amazing. Thank you,” Stanley replied, “let’s do this.”

  10:34 PM, Snyder-Wingfield Residence, Japan

         Xeno sat at his computer desk just off to the side of the living room, typing away on a forum to search for a template of a fake ID. Stanley had a chair pulled over to sit beside his love, watching Xeno intently. Naturally, his eyes did wander to the more pronounced features of Xeno’s chest and stomach. His belly was small, the pup was still tiny with it, and they’d only grow more. Pregnancy was changing the omega’s body more and more with each day. There was anything and everything to love about Xeno. How his face glowed with pregnancy, his silky silver locks flowed to his shoulders, and his skinny legs crossed over each other on his infamous cozy, spinning office chair.

         Xeno presented the fake ID to Stanley when it was complete, turning around in his spinny cozy office chair. He beamed a mischievous grin, fingers intertwined on his lap.

          “All we need is a fake name, and that will complete the card.”

         Stanley was trying with all his might to suppress his inner alpha, begging for the start of the rut. An alpha or omega could only hold off for so long- usually hours to a day, until an inevitable rut/heat would take hold. Stanley was a former marine and popped pills to suppress it when he had to, and consciously had practice. He boasted a record of 3 days of fighting it before it swung into full gear and sent Xeno into one of his most painful heats midway through. To Xeno, he looked like a gawking high schooler again, madly in love with his best friend.

       “Stan?” Xeno asked, snapping his daydreaming husband back to reality. He placed a hand on the side of Stanley’s leg to comfort him. He knew all the telltale signs of Stanley’s rut incoming. Staring at Xeno, awkwardness, flustering, morning wood, cold sweats- Xeno knew him too well. Their heats and ruts hardly ever synced because of Xeno’s irregular cycles. His pregnancy was a thing of whiplash for Stanley’s inner alpha and his ruts had to catch up to the rapid changing of Xeno’s hormones. The scientist suspected they would cease for awhile after this one, but they could never be sure. Was there a cure? As an omega, Xeno had limited knowledge on remedies that could suppress a rut. 

       “Your rut is coming,” Xeno said bluntly, “can you do anything to rid of it?”

       Stanley was appalled, offended Xeno would even suggest such a thing. He had to come up with a fake name for his ID card, but not after defending himself. It was one thing being blown off but a whole other when Xeno was trying to make him stop his body’s normal functioning.

       “You’re kidding, right, Xe? That was fucking blunt, even for your hormones and after blowing me off earlier,” Stanley responded, folding his arms, “rut’s comin’ whether you like it or not. The meds take time to work. You know that. My ruts will probably stop after this one, my body’s just as thrown off as yours. I’ll go on something after if it makes you feel better.”

       Stanley knew what this was about. Xeno didn’t want to sleep with him, and he’d rather hear the truth than have Xeno say something like that out of the blue. Xeno’s heats hardly synced with Stanley’s ruts, and as a mated alpha, Stanley’s body sometimes sent him into rut when it wasn’t the time he had predicted. Because Xeno was still in his early pregnancy, Stanley wasn’t too shocked that his body would pull a stunt such as this. He couldn’t simply tell his junk “my omega husband’s already knocked up” and be done with it. Curses to the hormones, the emotions, and stress of the future.

        Xeno huffed, folding his arms, “I understand. it’s complicated, okay? I’m just… not feeling right and I want to feel like I can help you through it. But I just… can’t.”

        “Why not? We were screwing around just fine before, Xe,” Stanley responded, leaning against the desk. Xeno was dodging the question and avoiding the confession of something.

        Xeno turned his head, bashfully looking to the side and towards the floor, “sometimes I bleed from how vascular it all is, Stan, and I’m fat. The pup is in there and she’ll… nevermind. You just don’t get it.”

        Stanley paused, completely taken aback and shocked as to why Xeno refused his advances. That was why? It couldn’t be- Stanley was the first person to always love Xeno for who he was- no matter what. He thought that was abundantly clear, but the hormones and emotional lability must’ve won that battle. Stanley accepted it was a deeper part of Xeno’s condition and not because he was bad at what he did- if he was truly inelegant, Xeno wouldn’t sleep with him as much as he did.

        Stanley’s amber eyes showed just how surprised he truly was. He knelt down in front of Xeno, putting both hands against the sides of his belly and by his waist.

       “Xe, I’m the last guy who’s gonna judge you for that. Come on, you know this. I’m not going anywhere just because of natural weight gain during pregnancy. Hear me? If I wanted to leave ya, I would’ve done it years ago in boot camp and I sure as shit would’ve pulled out.”

       Xeno nodded, watching his husband’s facial expression shift from serious to soft. Stanley was incredible.

        “Stan…” Xeno sighed, “you’re such an elegantly convincing, sweet golden retriever.”

         Stanley blushed, pausing as he was truly being complimented in the best possible way by Xeno. Being called a dog would blow by him this one time, as he knew Xeno meant his golden retriever loyalty was a prime trait he had within him even before he presented as an alpha.

         “I’ll let the dog comment slide, ha. The baby is so young. She wouldn’t know the difference if we were screwing, running or dancing, Xe,” Stanley said, then awkwardly rubbing the back of his neck. His partner of over a decade still got him flustered when he tried to be a smooth talker during his early rut. He was bashful while leaning against the desk, his arms folded over his midsection.

       “I can take a look at your… you know, if you… want me to, see where the bleeding is happening,” Stanley chuckled, “no tricks, just doctor Stan. How’s that?”

        Xeno abruptly bursted into laughter, keeling over and holding his stomach from it. His bladder nearly gave out from the laughing until he pulled himself together, his obsidian doughy eyes meeting Stanley’s own amber, makeup-covered vixen ones. How was his husband so damn adorable? Xeno was at a loss for words. He loved when Stanley did things like that for him.

       “Xe, what the-?! I’m trying to help!” Stanley insisted, turning to face Xeno, flustered. 

       “Stan! You’re so… oh, you already know!” Xeno replied cheerfully, “I have a proposal for you- two, I suppose; Regarding your fake name, and rut.”

        The scientist used that massive brain of his to make a deal with his love, a deal that would be hard for Stanley to pass up. He leaned closer to Stanley, a cheeky grin on his face.  

        “I will help you through your rut, if you let me do science. I’ve decided, based on what you suggested before, that I will make my very own blood glucose monitor, blood pressure system and potentially an ultrasound machine to watch my entire body as it changes. However, I need time, and your… approval, so you do not pop a gasket on me,” Xeno explained, his smirk showing just how evil he could be when it came to his experiments. Would he blow up the house this time? Stanley would be damned if he knew, and he didn’t want to find out. He went back to being standoffish, leaned against the desk and folding his arms again.

        “Why’re you makin’ logical deals with me, Xeno? It doesn’t have to be so analytical. I just want you to be safe, that’s all. Do whatever you want. You’ve always helped me through my ruts so it just kinda hurts that you feel you need something from me, especially asking for a thing you already got: free will,” Stanley responded, even more hurt. Xeno thought logically at the worst time: talking about their sex life. Was Stanley’s recent performance truly that terrible? It had to have been those hormones. Xeno never acted like this in the past, his legs open for Stanley and only him. 

       “You’re right, no, you’re completely right- I’m sorry, Stanley, I just-“ Xeno cut himself off, turning in the chair and putting a hand up on his chin as he was thinking himself into a stupor, back facing his husband from shame and embarrassment. He was the flustered one now! To Stanley, Xeno seemed obviously very nervous for Stanley’s incoming rut after he hadn’t gotten like that before. The idea of pregnancy and being responsible for another person while having intercourse was, the word Xeno hated so much: terrifying. 

       Xeno was scared. He was scared of defeat, death, losing his baby, losing Stanley; him bleeding out during sex could be a catalyst that spirals into a bigger problem, and that was all his mind could go to. He had to tell his husband. He simply had to open up to him or nothing would change.

       So, he held his tongue, and spun back around in his chair. Xeno threw his arms around Stanley’s waist, burying his face into the toned muscle of Stanley’s body, the scar from his injury that tore them apart months before being right where Xeno’s face was. Xeno fought to have Stanley and his body face him, to which the marine complied- wrapping his muscular arms around Xeno’s head and neck. He always gave into Xeno, it was in his nature. He’d wait for his husband all night to just talk to him as Stanley watched Xeno’s back, seeing the cogs turn in Xeno’s head.

      “Stan, I’m so sorry!” Xeno cried out, “I’m scared, okay? That’s the unrelenting reality of my truth. I’m simply terrified. I feel the pup in my stomach now, I can feel the quickening, like butterflies- Yuzuriha told me I’d start to feel these things. She’s getting bigger and I… I don’t want to die because of my illnesses and not be able to raise her. I’m scared. This is the one thing I can study and will truly never know what it is like until I experience it for myself. Now that I am, I’m… not handling it well, I’d say.”

       Stanley watched as Xeno held him, crying once more and dumping the emotional baggage on Stanley’s head like the knife that had plunged into his gut all those months ago. The alpha was completely dumbfounded yet honored to have been the chosen person that Xeno always opened up to. He did his due diligence and hugged the omega as he cried out from the deepest parts of his science-loving heart, not letting his brain miss a single word that left Xeno’s lips. He analyzed them, along with the body language of the doctor all while comforting him.

       “Xeno.”

       Stanley lifted Xeno’s chin, cupping his face with both his hands and keeping his eyes glued to Xeno’s.

       “I can’t promise you a perfect pregnancy and birth. You know what I can do, though? Tell ya you’re the best damn partner and mother out there, you know, lookin’ out for the pup. Here you had me worried I wasn’t satisfying you. Just say the word with what you’re comfortable with, and I’ll be there, every step of the way.”

       Stanley’s genuine smile of relief warmed the heart of Xeno. What an elegant man he was!

       “Stan, no! Don’t ever think th-that, you’re.. amazing. I- thank you. Thank you for staying.”

       Stanley put a finger against Xeno’s lips, kneeling down to be closer to his partner to continue his words of encouragement and support. He may be a tough as nails former marine, but he had a heart of gold for the right people. 

       “Let me finish. I’d never leave you. We made this promise as kids. I’m so proud of you, Xeno. This is a massive step for you- even more so than the pipe bomb and rail guns we made,” Stanley’s expression grew more serious from his once genuine smile. He was fulfilling a promise, “Let’s do this next experiment together, okay? It’s just like all the other ones, but this time, we made this with our love and we’ll protect her with our fury. As long as I’m still here, I won’t let anything happen to you. You got me, the kids, the old man, the pop star, our families- we’ll take care of you. Your only duty to me is to keep loving me, and our pup. Take care of her, and I’ll take care of you both by gathering all the money we’ll need to give this baby a great life while she’s growing.”

       All night, Stanley was swooning Xeno- if it was intentional or not, the omega had no clue, and he wasn’t about to complain. He didn’t answer Stanley immediately and instead closed the shrinking gap between their faces and kissed Stanley like the day they tied the knot. 

        Stanley’s rut took that welcoming kiss and ran with it, like a beach ball desperately trying to stay under the water but ready to fly up into the air at any second. He controlled himself and his instincts masterfully.

       “I love you so much, Stanley. You’re quite the sweetheart when the time is right,” Xeno said, his face against the scar and muscles on Stanley’s torso. Stanley’s words did tidal waves to soothe Xeno’s nerves at that moment and excite his inner omega. His offer to inspect the area for bleeding even made Xeno feel more secure and safe. The doom of childbirth would always linger in the mind of that omega and probably every other pregnant omega out there. However, Xeno was blessed with a husband who loved him, and with that trust, he'd give Stanley his all right back.

       Stanley ran his fingers through Xeno’s hair, his heart rate speeding up with anticipation and his inner alpha getting more and more excited. The nickname Xeno used for him- sweetheart- warmed his heart. Xeno only ever called him ‘Stan’ or his ‘elegant knight’, since pet names were never Xeno’s thing. 

       “That’s it, doll, trust me. Trust that you’ll be okay. Your body knows what to do. We can get through this as long as we’re bringing our strengths together let me do the heavy lifting, you stay back and use that brilliant mind of yours.”

       The room had a comfortable silence with Xeno’s head against Stanley’s shoulder and the soft hum of the alpha to help soothe his omega. Xeno’s body relaxed, his mind slowed down and he felt much better than when he did during the forbidden refusal of Stanley’s act. Stanley’s words and pheromones had a soothing effect on him, most pregnant omegas could be soothed by their alphas if given some time.

      “Oh. Lost track of what we were doin’, X. my name for my missions will be…

       Whose name could he snag for this mission? Stanley’s mind played back each and every face he could recall. Ah ha! The dorky gem loving guy that Xeno knew from work with the funky Rolex. He was a wack job, but had a common first name Stanley could borrow. For the surname, he went back to first grade and the girl who sat next to him and had a major crush on him throughout middle school.

      “Joel. Joel…. Uh… hm… Emerson.”

~

      That night, Stanley and Xeno cuddled to bed and fell asleep with Stanley as the big spoon, a hand protectively over Xeno’s stomach. The rut coming in only made him more territorial, possessive, and agitated by anyone who wasn’t his omega or pup. Alphas didn’t nest when in rut (or at all) but could trigger their omega’s heat and cause them to make a nest for their partners, giving alphas more security and a sacred area to protect. Xeno was steadily working on the nest for their bed. A jacket of Stanley’s was used under their pillows as a scent pocket of Stanley’s naturally evergreen woodsy alpha aroma. When he was closer to giving birth, Xeno could likely spend hours working on their nest, making sure it was perfect, or well… elegant.

       In the morning, Stanley cooked them breakfast and his rut triggered midday. It was agony watching Xeno finish making the cuff of his early prototype blood pressure machine. The omega dropped the project for the day and began to help Stanley through his rut, but not before a check.

      Stanley was taught by Yuzhuriha and Ruri on how to check Xeno’s cervix for dilation, in case of bleeding, or if Xeno’s water broke. It was only to be done in emergencies with clean hands, however. Stanley was instructed to use two fingers and insert them into Xeno, feeling the ring of the cervix and pulling his fingers out in the same position they were in to determine dilation. If they had scant blood on them, it was not an immediate cause for concern. 

        It was driving him insane having Xeno naked, horny (and also very scared) on their bed, presenting himself to his husband for their at home exam. Stanley’s cock was begging to knot his omega and he had to hold back for the last time so he could give Xeno comfort and closure. 

        It had been difficult to find Xeno’s cervix, however. Stanley’s fingers often got lost inside the birth canal of the omega and it caused Xeno uncontrollable pleasure from his alpha’s fingers. Although pregnant, Xeno had symptoms of a heat to sync with his alpha’s rut, which wasn’t unheard of for omegas when they inhaled their mate’s scent of rut. Practically being teased and fingered for the procedure drove Xeno crazy, rewarding his makeshift doctor husband with teasing moans while he performed the exam.

       Xeno would cry Stanley’s name, arching his back and messing up the position of Stanley’s fingers. The alpha huffed in annoyance at first, and the second time he gently put a hand on Xeno’s bump and leaned forward to look in his eyes.

       “Look at me, baby. That’s it. Just breathe.”

       Xeno’s belly gave the father of the pup butterflies. She was almost big enough to start kicking him and hearing their voices from in the womb. Under Stanley’s hand, Xeno was losing control, writhing from the pleasure and odd feelings combined. For the amount of times they had sex, Xeno wasn’t prepared for Stanley’s fingers at the ring of his cervix.

         Upon the cervix check, Stanley was given a small spot of blood from the shut and padlocked door that was Xeno’s cervix- a great sign, for the sake of their pup’s life. Xeno’s reproductive system finally did something right. As told by the OB staff, Stanley and the doctors would only mess with Xeno’s cervix when absolutely necessary. The more they disturbed it, the more at risk Xeno would be for complications. So, he only did that to give Xeno closure and as a green light to help him through his final rut before they were to become parents.

       And so the two went forward, Stanley able to go almost all day, giving Xeno breaks in between rounds to let him rest, begin making the nest in their bed for the rut and recoup. Stanley swapped holes, positions and location in the house, only to completely crash after having sex and his stamina was depleted. It was the routine for the next six days. He kept a close eye on Xeno’s body and for bleeding- which did happen, and would subside quickly on its own. Xeno was right, the area was very vascular, and any irritation scared Xeno and his own body. They took it slow, Stanley going rough only when Xeno gave him permission and letting Xeno’s body rest to keep up with his alpha’s mighty endurance. 

Day 2 of Stanley’s rut 

      In between sessions, Xeno was taking a break between rounds while Stanley took a nap. To take full advantage of his time, Xeno continued work on his projects, adding more to his homemade blood pressure monitor and built in blood glucose checker. He was in his 14th week of pregnancy, finding his belly to begin to get in the way of what he was doing. His varicose veins ached his legs if he was standing up for too long. It was hell on earth, but for Stanley and the pup, he’d pull through, compression stockings alongside him.

      That was when it hit the omega. He had an idea only a few days ago for his husband to continue sniping, and would finally make it happen. He recalled talks of a man Senku and Gen were acquainted with, and decided to finally ask Senku for the Ryusui guy’s number.

   Dr. X:

       Good afternoon Senku. I’m writing to ask if you still have Ryusui’s contact information for my husband to give him a hand with his home renovations.

      To be safer than sorry, Xeno copped out completely with a bullshit lie to help cover Stanley’s tracks. God forbid a cop busted down their door and stole the love of Xeno’s life from him. Xeno would be inconsolable, and Senku was just as intelligent as he was, he’d know exactly what Xeno was talking about and be in on it, as he was keenly aware of their precious close call.

      About 25 minutes later, Senku wrote back to his mentor and dear friend, grateful that Stanley was gonna help this guy out. Ryusui desired everything, even snipers who could pop heads off his worst enemies. With more desire came more enemies, and Ryusui, being an entrepreneur, had several.

      Senku: 

         Hey Xeno. Hope you’re doing okay. I can give you his number to contact him. Make sure you take care of yourself. Gen and I were thinking of coming over in about 3 days. Does that work?

        Senku then sent a screenshot of Ryusui’s contact information from his phone and Xeno typed out the number, sent it to his husband on his burner phone and gave the name of their next client. Because of Ryusui’s wealth, Stanley had to be extra careful and would use his new fake name and ID made by the genius housewife: Xeno himself. He couldn’t help Stanley on the frontlines for obvious reasons, but he’d be damned if he didn’t help pull the strings in the back. Xeno was eager to plan a meeting to see Senku and especially Gen after so long; he wrote back quickly.

       Dr. X:

          Elegant! Thank you, Senku. You may come over. Stanley is currently in rut but will likely be done and resting when you two come over. I will have him contact Ryusui when he wakes up. I hope that is adequate. 

        Senku began typing, sending a message back to his friend shortly after.

       Senku:

           Yeah that’s fine. I already told Ryusui a guy I know loosely will be reaching out at some point . I can bump our meeting to the next day instead to give you guys some space. I know how Stanley is when you’re not pregnant so I’m starting to become more careful about what I do around you two. lol 

       Xeno couldn’t help but chuckle. He knew since he got pregnant that Stanley was much more protective, prone to violence and outspoken to everyone except his angel of a mate. He had to keep his husband on his leash until he calmed down, which would probably be long after Xeno gives birth.

        Dr. X:

             Do not worry about Stan, he simply follows my orders and will not do anything to you. I’m hormonal and I’m sure you know that, it is only temporary for us both. I look forward to seeing you again, whether it is three days or four.

Chapter Text

Hi everyone! :)

don’t worry, I am NOT abandoning this story. I have several chapters sitting in my drafts!

as you all surely know, I’m a nursing student in my final few weeks of school. I’m busier than ever but have a chapter I can probably post tomorrow, that is Senku and Gen centric!

because of my work as a student, posting is sporadic and messy, my brain is foggy and I’ve grabbed some minor help to continue this story. with this help came some editing of previous chapters, especially the one before this, and proper planning for what’s coming up.

the arcs will be shifting and major things are coming that I’m very excited to share.

A couple things for longtime readers that I want back and changed…

-Stanley’s ex, the nurse, I felt she was out of place so I explained why she was there to make the scene make sense in the world. Minor thing, but I wanted it to actually make sense and not just have her teleport overseas

-Gen/magma drama and Senku being a good bf. I realized I hadn’t mentioned it and it will be a subplot/gen character moment because he already has establish tensions with his job, which he has mentioned in comments made a couple times in this story.

-and the previous chapter. I edited it because I’m eh at writing Xeno and wanted to make their motivations make sense, and reason for Stanley’s rut coming despite the pregnancy to actually make sense too, and it all spirals to Xeno’s health, which I made clear.

That’s the big stuff, I will probably go back and edit the older stuff at some point too. You can see my edits in the notes of every chapter at the start.

if you made it this far, thank you for reading, following my silly passion project, supporting me, awaiting the stanxeno baby AND I’ll have a new chapter out later/tomorrow! 🩶 yay!

-J

Chapter Text

7:12 AM four days since Stanley’s unwelcome rut began- Senku Ishigami’s campus apartment

       The semester was cruel, grueling and unrelenting even for Senku. His brain was so stuffed full of study time that he lost count of how long he had been cooped up in his lab and bedroom. On that particular night, Senku was studying his new 3D rocket prototype model that he made with Xeno, pertaining to his hefty lesson on astrophysics. Xeno pretty much became his unofficial teacher before he got pregnant. The older prototype in Xeno’s closet was simply ‘inelegant’, and therefore, they started from scratch. 

       The scientist, knelt over his desk in his cozy office chair was completely out cold. The smell of breakfast seeping under the door wasn’t enough to phase him. Senku had a shared apartment with his two childhood best friends, who were mated after their pining over each other for years, just outside the city where their university was located. It was a cozy complex full of neighbors just like them- college students, and a couple single moms. 

       Taiju was on breakfast duty that morning while Yuzhuriha added the finishing touches on a project she started long before her grueling semester. She noticed Taiju was wrapping things up; the kind alpha prepared eggs, pancakes, sausage and toast for the three inhabitants of the apartment. Yuzuriha took it upon herself to grab Senku for breakfast and first walked past her mate to Senku’s bedroom. She noticed his bathroom was empty- the door was wide open.

       Yuzuriha knocked, no response. She then cracked open the bedroom door after a lack of Senku’s usual witty response, letting in a small stream of sunlight with her. Senku’s bed was empty, his blankets still a mess from when he got up the day before. The omega sighed. He did it again. Senku fell asleep in his lab! They had gone over the rule of “not falling asleep in the lab unless a late assignment is due”. 

      Yuzuriha went back to Taiju with a saddened smile, putting a hand on his shoulder while he put the plates together.

      “I think Senku is in his lab,” Yuzuriha said, “mmm, this smells good!”

      “Thanks, hun! I’ll go get our old buddy, you wait here!” Taiju insisted, putting the pan down on the stove once more to prepare a good wake up for his best friend. He was lightning fast, and Yuzuriha had the reflexes of a developing OB nurse.

       “Taiju, no, I’ll do it!” Yuzuriha squeaked, grabbing the eager Taiju by his waist and wrapping her arms around him. With a playful look of defeat, Taiju shrugged it off and stepped back. Yuzuriha let him go, the two then sharing a warm laugh together after Taiju almost jumped the gun and may as well have woken Senku up with fireworks and a full marching band. Senku’s lab was behind Yuzuriha, the door shut. Taiju would have a front row seat to Senku catching zzz’s after a long night of work.

       Yuzuriha giggled when she grabbed the door handle, turning it slowly and quietly to reveal a wholesome scene of Senku in a deep sleep. The guy was so hardworking, dedicated and passionate to science and his family, seeing him peaceful as he slept quietly made Yuzuriha want to throw a blanket over his shoulders and leave him be.

       The seamstress omega approached Senku’s desk quietly, peeking over his shoulder to see his face. He was quietly snoring, leaned over paperwork of a rocket he had sketched out and an email on his desktop he was sending to Xeno and Byakuya together. The file was called “rocket.prototype.2.jpeg”, which excited Yuzuriha. She knew Senku had dreams of going to the moon with his beloved science mentor, the same mentor she was learning so much from during his pregnancy.

       “Senku,” Yuzuriha said quietly. No response. She gently laid her hand on the shoulder of the scientist, “Senku, breakfast is ready.”

       Senku’s eyes fluttered open, the red rubies underneath his eyelids sparkling with life as he came back to the real world from his dreams. Oh, shit, Senku’s dream! The alpha felt it in his pants and how he despised morning wood. Gen was coming home to him later in the day, and his subconscious psyche knew it all too well. It was engraved in the back of his head for the last month. Gen was coming back. They’d be with each other for at least a month. Byakuya, Lillian, Xeno and Stanley were waiting to see them both for a reunion all together.

      “You’re awake!” Yuzuriha said, “are you okay, Senku?”

       Senku sat upright, rubbing the sleep from his eyes and sighing in disbelief at the mess he left on his desk. It was careless to fall asleep, but his body begged him for a good night’s sleep after so many all nighters.

        “Yeah… yeah…” Senku said, drowsy. He was coming back to earth and his gentle best friend was the perfect person to wake up to. He wasn’t sure how many more mornings of Taiju bursting into his room he could take. 

        “Breakfast is ready. Gen texted me 15 minutes ago, he’ll get here in the late afternoon,” Yuzuriha whispered into Senku’s ear, leaning down beside him. She knew Senku was well aware that she was trying to coax him into getting up.

       “Excellent,” Senku said with a cheeky, conniving grin, “I’m thinking a movie night is in order.”

        “Oh, yes, it’s been ages!” Yuzuriha gasped, “Perhaps we can invite Ruri and Chrome over, too!”

         Senku raised a brow, confused, “Ruri’s still at Chrome’s?” 

        “Yes!” Yuzuriha squeaked, “let’s eat, Senku! I’m so glad this semester is over. We can finally do things again!”

       Senku couldn’t relate more to his friend. He nodded, sighing deeply with every volume of carbon dioxide that was in his lungs. That semester was testing him more than anything he had been through and it was finally over. He passed his finals, Yuzuriha made it to another semester and even Taiju made it for the last semester of his construction degree. As for Ruri, he knew she was taking care of Xeno with Yuzuriha as her pupil. Yuzuriha needed the guinea pig for her degree, after all. As a group of three mated omegas, Senku wouldn’t even pretend to understand them on that level, but he was elated that they all got along.

       Senku slid out of his lab coat, putting it on the back of his chair and revealing his NASA t-shirt that he got from a trip back to the states years ago with Stanley, Xeno, Lillian and Byakuya. He was wearing basketball shorts to go with it. Not exactly his best outfit, but it accommodated the warmer June day.

       “Morning, Senku! I got some pancakes and sausage here for ya, buddy!” Taiju beamed. His smile lit up every room he went in. Even to the half asleep Senku, Taiju and Yuzhuriha both simply brought an unshakable joy to his life. Senku shut the door to his lab and built-in office behind him, observing the room before promptly taking a seat at the table. Yuzhuriha poured him some coffee and orange juice.

      “You guys… thanks,” Senku said, a genuine smile plastered across his face. No tricks, grins or evil scientific plans. Senku adored those two and he wouldn’t trade them for the world.

~

     Taiju and Yuzuriha joined Senku at the table after making their plates, the two sitting across from each other with Senku at the end for ease of mingling. They had to play catch up after each of their hectic semesters. Taiju and Yuzuriha knew where to start.

      “Soooo, you’re mated now, Senku!” Yuzhuriha chirped, popping another bite of pancake in her mouth.

      “Oh, yeah. I thought you guys knew that already,” Senku replied. He was humble at best, shy at worst, trying to act nonchalant when he knew the whole damn house heard him and Gen fucking that morning between his busy schedule. Gen left about an hour after that to meet up with Ukyo for the next show, driving hours back after his seven minutes in heaven with his lover.

       “Well, duh, but we didn’t have a chance to congratulate you!” Taiju insisted, “since you’ve been busy ever since!”

       “Yeah! Congratulations, Senku!” Yuzuriha added, beaming at her friend.

       The room went quiet for a moment as the awkward tension filled the air. Someone had to ask the question. Taiju and Yuzuriha exchanged glances before the big oaf decided to be the one to open his mouth.

       “Soooo, tell us, Senku, when’s the wedding?! Did you ask him?” Taiju blurted, causing Senku to nearly choke on his bite. His eyes went wide, locking his gaze with his best friend as his mouth was slightly agape, a look of horror similar to if Taiju had asked him to deliver Xeno’s baby. 

       “No, you big oaf, I didn’t ask him. We’re not engaged!”

        “You guys are gonna get married though, right?!” Taiju pressed more.

        “I could ask the same thing to you two,” Senku replied with a smirk, once his cool and confident self was back. He pushed it right back on those two, the ball was in their court now.

        “Oh, I was thinking of asking pretty soon! That’s why I brought it up to you!!” Taiju smiled, shocking not only Senku, but Yuzuriha.

       “HUH?!?” Senku gasped, “no way you just announced that to the girl you’re asking, dummy!”

       “Oh, I had a feeling he was going to soon!” Yuzuriha replied nervously, trying to brush it off with a giggle, “at least once school is done for us!”

        “So why’s this on me!?” Senku asked, “I haven’t even had the thought cross my mind of marrying Gen yet! Not when there’s so much going on right now!”

        Senku was in no rush to get married, however long he wanted to keep Gen hanging. Gen was always anticipating Senku popping the question when they were alone and the setting was romantic. 

        “Because, Senku, alpha to alpha, we gotta look out for each other, buddy!” Taiju laughed, “and, someone has to be your best man!”

        “Oh, come on, ya big oaf, it doesn’t take a genius to know you’d be my best man,” Senku snorted, “I’ll get to it eventually, okay? Probably after I graduate and Stanley and Xeno have their kid. I have to finish my degree and it’ll take at least another year. Lillian’s got a lot on her plate with her album. Can’t stress them, Byakuya or myself out with a wedding right now when they’re busy too.”

       “Senku…” Yuzuriha said, shocked. So that was why he wasn’t proposing to Gen. Senku being selfless was nothing new, as much as he liked to play the realist and logical guy, he was a soft man deep down and everyone knew it, he didn’t want to attract any unneeded and unwanted attention to himself through a wedding. She had talked to Gen plenty of times and he’d always joke about getting married to Senku, so he was just as eager as anyone else in Senku’s life for those two to get married. Senku didn’t want to do something so life changingly crazy while everyone’s lives around them were changing too. Taiju continued eating, his gaze going over to his own mate.

       “Senku, no matter what’s going on, never feel like you can’t do what you feel ready for. I think your parents and friends would be so happy for you, regardless of how busy they all are. That’s a family love for you,” Yuzuriha said, chewing on her breakfast with a hand over her mouth for manners, “plus, it’s Gen. I mean… you guys obviously love each other, and if it’s a wedding you don’t like, just elope. There’s options! my parents were really mad when I swapped majors and yet I still did it. You can do it!”

       “Yeah, yeah. Nothing like Xeno and Stanley love with the barrel of a gun and some backyard explosions from isotopes,” Senku chuckled sarcastically, “thanks for the pep talk, Yuzu, I’ll think about it. How’s that?”

        “Hell yeah!!!!” Taiju cheered, fist bumping, “that’s better than a no, right, hun? You totally talked him into it! He listens to you way better than me!”

        Yuzhuriha laughed, “you’re right!” Maybe for once, she’d crack that deceptively hard exterior of Senku’s that shelled over a good, loving man. 

Chapter Text

The trio kept eating, their conversation going to another topic that Senku was eager to talk about. Yuzhuriha swapping majors was massive and working with Ruri, the girlfriend of Senku’s lab buddy, was even bigger. They were all mutual friends, so having them around only felt natural.

      “Ruri showed me the ropes of the lab inside the omega’s clinic. It looked like Dracula’s house or something,” Yuzuriha laughed, “and Xeno’s blood was the newest addition!”

      “They’re always cycling in new blood and testing the old stuff. It’s very routine what they’re testing for, especially in an omega’s clinic, it’s common to search for the pregnancy hormone HCG. Xeno’s levels are probably dropping since he’s entering his second trimester, meaning he’ll be less sick, in exchange for-“

       “You lost me hours ago, Senku!” Taiju exclaimed, Yuzhuriha giggling and winking at her nerdy friend. Senku rolled his eyes with a laugh and ran a hand through his hair.

       “Your girlfriend’s patient won’t projectile vomit on her due to hormonal changes in the second part of the pregnancy,” Senku explained, in a friendly way that an idiot like Taiju would understand.

       The two nodded, Senku’s science finally clicking with them. Yuzuriha needed to know it, and she decided to let Senku go on for Taiju’s sake. 

       “Ohhh! That makes sense, and it’s good to know when Yuzhuriha and I have pups!” Taiju exclaimed. Yuzhuriha blushed, picking at her food and taking another bite of her breakfast.

       The three childhood friends continued eating, conversing about their finals and how Yuzhuriha had to write an equation on her list for medication math because her classes hardly covered it. How Senku had to stay in the lab until midnight to practice an experiment crucial for the performance part of his exam, and how Taiju got the worst infected splinter ever during his exam for his construction class. 

       When Senku was done, Taiju grabbed his plate and then his girlfriend’s, going to the sink and beginning to scrub the dishes. Yuzhuriha went into the living room beside their kitchen, flicking a movie on the tv and sitting at her sewing desk by the fireplace. She was working on a onesie set of three for Stanley and Xeno’s baby, having started it months ago after she found out she was taking Xeno under her wing for her degree, and when Senku told her the gender of the pup, she added the girly touches to it after making an outline for the design. Xeno being her guinea pig simply had to be rewarded with a thoughtful gift from a future OB nurse and mutual friend.

       Senku made for his lab, grabbing the knob of the door. Before he could turn it, Taiju’s hand was on his shoulder, startling the fellow alpha. He spun around, a look of concern for his best friend. Taiju never usually stopped him out of the blue, especially without saying anything at first.

      “Senku, you think you could spend a day with us outside the lab? After finals, we uh….we miss ya, buddy!” Taiju exclaimed, throwing his arms around Senku in a suffocating hug. The man’s muscle mass was dense and suffocating after his puberty, job, classes and weight lifting, meanwhile Senku was of average build and on the weaker side, he was lagging behind his best friend- the gentle giant Taiju was, bless him, he didn’t know his own strength sometimes.

       “Y-you big… oaf! I can’t breathe!” Senku gasped out, his arm loosely around his friend to still show he loved him and appreciated the sentiment. 

      “Sorry Senku! I just… I just want to see you!” Taiju cried, his eyes filling up with sparkles of light, indicating tears were forming.

      “You don’t have to cry, Taiju, I’m right here. But sure, I can sit on the sofa with you. My prototype only requires a use of my laptop,” Senku sighed, defeated. Deep down, he knew how terrible he was at expressing how he felt. Senku also knew Taiju and Yuzhuriha were well aware of how he was and more than used to it. They could read him like a book. Needless to say, for someone as stupid as Taiju, he sure knew his best friend like a brother.

~

       Senku typed away on his laptop while Yuzhuriha was sewing the beginning designs of the onesies for the pup of her friends. 

       In the background, Taiju had put on a Japanese game show for his girlfriend and best friend to watch while he was in the parking lot of their apartment complex with a neighbor and friends of theirs, Nikki. She was a fellow alpha, helping Taiju with a side project on construction. Senku and Yuzhuriha sat in comfortable silence, each of them working with the hum of the sewing machine and the fan of Senku’s laptop adding ambient noise along with their tv.

       Senku’s phone buzzed with a text and he had assumed it was one of three people: Byakuya, Gen or Chrome. To his surprise, it was none of them and instead Kohaku. She had messaged him something he deemed strange.

      Kohaku: Hey Senku. Amaryllis said she owed some money to a guy you know. Stanley something, can’t remember his last name. She’s busy and can’t get it to him this week. If I brought it over would you give it to your friend for us?

      Senku raised a brow at the message and put the pieces together pretty quickly. Stanley killed some guy recently, and the girl was the one who hired him. Xeno had mentioned Stanley took a job to Senku through text not long ago. The girl actually kept to her word, it sounded like Stanley wasn’t kidding when he said he had lots of experience with black market killings.

      Senku: Yeah. I’m home whenever you want to come over. Taiju’s working outside, so be careful pulling in.

      Senku lifted his head from the laptop to be met with Yuzuriha’s back as she worked hard on finishing up what appeared to be sewing a handmade star on the front of a deep blue onesie. She knew Xeno was a NASA employee that JAXA also favored for his connections, so his fascination and love for space would be honored through her gift to him. 

      “Yuzuriha,” Senku said, the omega turning around and looking at her friend with a smile. She was beaming with excitement over the first baby of their circle of friends getting a gift handmade from her. 

       Senku stood up to look at what she was making, softly grinning when he quickly put together what it was. He noticed the three onesies, drawn on scrap paper, were three different sizes for when the baby was to grow bigger during her first months of life. 

       “Kohaku is coming over soon with something I have to give to Xeno and Stanley, from a client of Stanley’s,” Senku stated, making sure to keep Stanley’s shady occupation under wraps so as to not warp how his friends viewed him. To them, he was a retired marine husband and father-to-be who'd die for his family. To Senku and Gen, he was a knife and gun collecting maniac from Texas who loved Xeno, loved weapons, loved his baby, loved those close to him, loved smoking and loved killing cheating bastards while being one himself in his own charming way. He was a good man, only acting if Xeno told him to, or if he deemed it necessary.

      “Oh, if that’s the case, could you bring the onesies to him when you’re there? I’m not sure Taiju and I have the time to make the commute,” Yuzuriha said, shyly looking down at her work, flushed. In reality, it was nerve wracking going to see those two without Senku as the middle man, even if she really liked them. She wasn’t sure how to start a conversation with a man who she knew more about his reproductive system than who he was as a person. And his husband, who was more terrifying than he was, seemed like a good man once one got to know him and work past the tough exterior. There was her problem- Yuzhuriha didn’t know Xeno and Stanley as well as Senku, Gen, Chrome, or even Byakuya. Senku was well aware of Yuzhuriha being nervous around Stanley and Xeno, it wasn’t his first rodeo. Introducing Gen to them wasn’t particularly easy at first either. Breaking the ice to him about them both made even Gen nervous to meet them.

       Senku chuckled, smirking and shoving his pinkie in his right ear, “haha, just bring it to them yourself, it’s your gift. They won’t bite your head off, Yuzhuriha. Not unprompted and certainly not to a friend. They’re good people, just rough around the edges.”

       Yuzhuriha had a feeling Senku would call her bluff. She looked back at her unfinished work, then back to her friend, “o-okay. They should be done by next week.”

      Senku patted Yuzhuriha on the shoulder, proud of her for coming to terms with her own self doubt and avoidance of Stanley and Xeno. If Senku trusted them, it was Yuzhuriha’s safest bet to assume they were at least decent people. Senku wanted her to feel safe and valued in their growing pack.

      “I’ll start making us some lunch. I was thinking-“

      “Not ramen again!” Yuzhuriha chuckled, earning a look of disdain from Senku. Her and Taiju could practically read his mind. With a sigh, Senku folded his arms.

       “How about some rice, chicken and beans? I’ll keep it simple, perhaps adding some sauce. The big oaf needs his nutrients,” Senku explained, earning an endearing nod from Yuzuriha. The three of them took care of each other and were very good at switching who made lunch, did the dishes and whatnot. 

~

       Kohaku had arrived while Senku was cooking lunch, simply dropping by in her blue car to hand him an envelope with fancy handwriting from their friend. She had knocked, Senku letting her in through the sliding glass door of their apartment that more felt like a small condo.

       “Hey, lioness,” Senku said with a smirk, “what have you been up to?”

        Kohaku smirked back at her fellow alpha, the two always loving mischief and enjoying each other’s energy. Senku loved discovery and science, Kohaku and Chrome loved watching him do it. It was the perfect at-university trio.

       “Nothing much. Had to fix the disaster that was Amaryllis’s hair, she said she got shot at by her ex,” Kohaku grinned, clenching her fist, “and he’s gone now! So she’s got a clean cut, it suits her.”

       The lioness showed her phone to Senku while he was cutting up some vegetables that he decided were going into his meal. He was appalled at the short hair look on the girl, but nodded.

      “If you measure her face by 5mm, she-“

      “Don’t critique my omega, now,” Kohaku joked, leaning over the counter and poking Senku’s shoulder, “especially when you’re mated yourself.”

      Senku’s face flushed slightly, the alpha looking down at the cutting board as he spoke, his voice lowering, “yeah. I mated Gen 8 weeks ago. We’ve neglected to tell anyone, unless it was in person.”

      “Well. I think congratulations are in order. Make sure you invite me to the wedding,” Kohaku said shyly, “and my sisters, Chrome, Amaryllis. Everyone.”

       “You got it, Lioness.”

        Kohaku handed Senku the letter, where  Amaryllis had written “S. Snyder-Wingfield” on the letter to make it fancy, including his married hyphenated last name to add charm. Senku was the one responsible for keeping that letter safe, protecting it like a firstborn child. If anything, it was like the building blocks for Xeno and Stanley’s first child.

      Kohaku took a small box of chicken and rice home for Amaryllis and left promptly after delivering the envelope. Yuzhuriha managed to squeeze in a hello, Kohaku greeting her and Taiju to not totally blow them off and only appear there for Senku.

       Then the afternoon dragged on by. Kohaku’s visit, albeit short, was nice for Senku to reconnect with everyone after the last several months of the semester swallowed him whole. He couldn’t wait for Xeno to properly mentor him in the fall. Talk about having a real teacher.

        Senku ate lunch with his two close friends at the table and then began his afternoon work in the lab, much to Taiju’s dismay, he promised his friends he’d come back for dinner and a movie night when Gen finally showed up.

       Gen.

        Oh, Gen.

       Senku missed his omega dearly to the point that it ached, curbing his appetite. He hadn’t seen Gen since the night they mated each other aside from daily video calls and texts. He knew all the pressure Gen was getting on social media made him hate his job even more, especially while on tour, he had frothing at the mouth fans begging to know about his personal life, asking for autographs, selfies or even a quickie. Once this string of shows was over, Gen insisted he was on a hiatus until Xeno’s baby was born. His argument? He needed to be a good big sister to the pup, much like Senku needed to be a good big brother.

       Senku was mixing a solution that he would soon develop into hydrogen peroxide for Taiju and Stanley, those two always doing dangerous jobs that required cleansing of wounds. His phone buzzed with a text from the one person he was desperate to hear from all damn day.

      Gen: Senku, I’m on my way to you, lovely~

       Senku’s heart skipped a beat. He knew long distance relationships were hard, but the anticipation of Gen being on his way and how it sent butterflies to his stomach truly was a high he could be on for the rest of his life. The anticipation building up in his body, hormones of love and affection flooding his blood vessels from his endocrine system.

       Senku: Alright, see you soon, mentalist.

        The message was short, but both Gen and Senku knew how excited that scientist was. He’d dive headfirst into the pool of Gen’s heart and wrap his arms around his love like a lifeline, not wanting to let him go. 

~

       The alpha scientist would work himself to the bone before Gen came back. Sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, iron oxide, lithium sulfide, and more. He’d make it all, throw it together, some he’d avoid throwing together (to avoid blowing up his house), with the lithium oxides, he planned to dissolve them in ethanol alcohol and then prove it is insoluble in alkali to write a basic report for Xeno. A very simple experiment, but enough to keep him busy and show off to his mentor friend. He moved to the next thing, playing with hydrochloric acid- the second and far bigger part of the report he planned to share with Dr. Xeno.

        The master scientist had a gas mask and biohazard suit to play with his chemicals for the two and a half hours it took Gen to get to his apartment. It was agony in the beginning, but to say Senku got ‘in the zone’, as some would say, was an understatement. His mind was distracted, just as he wanted it to be, writing down every little reaction he got between beakers. Every bubbling, color change or small explosion of a reaction was the building block of the rocket he promised he’d build with Xeno someday.

      Senku’s lab stunk up the kitchen and hall of their apartment. Yuzhuriha and Taiju knew it was the scientist’s anxious, restless and fiddling hands working hard to keep his mind distracted from his lover coming back to him. He could be a lost and pining alpha who just wanted to knot Gen, or he could work with his second and original love: science. Science never once left Senku astray, taking him by the hand and twirling him in a romantic dance by the lakeside in a moonlit night with fireflies. 

     Senku paused, feeling his claim mark get warm. He hypothesized what it had meant. Gen must’ve been close, just as excited as he was to finally reunite at mates for the first time.

      Senku’s phone had buzzed again when he had nearly lost track of the time. He was equipped with a gas mask, rubber gloves and an extremely dangerous sulfuric acid in a beaker directly in front of him. He sealed the thing shut, saving the acid for another experiment and leaving it on the shelf of his lab. It was during times like these that he was glad his college let him use certain chemicals from their lab. It fueled his knowledge and made him motivated to work on his portion of the rocket project.  

     The scientist removed his gloves and reached for his phone in the back pocket of his shorts, reading a text from Gen that shot a signal up his spinal cord and to his brain of excitement. His red eyes lit up despite the darkness of his usual sarcastic, standoffish and stricly business personality. 

     Gen: pulling in, my love <3

     Senku ripped off his lab coat, scrambling to his fridge and grabbing the two colas he had made for himself and Gen to share in preparation of celebrating their reunion. He placed them on the island of the kitchen, leaning over it and keeping his ruby red eyes glued to the sliding glass door. 

     The heart of the scientist was pounding in his chest. He had never felt this way for another person, no one had ever made him act in this way for them. He would normally keep his nose in his science projects for any other person. But Gen… Gen. That man was simply the love of his life, holding his heart up with the hand of science. 

     Senku saw Gen leaving his black car, holding a rolling suitcase behind him. The mentalist was clad in black khaki shorts, Birkenstocks, a purple tank top and a tie-dye button up shirt for the month of June. With it getting warmer, he had to dress appropriately. Even if he looked like an absolute dork.

     Gen approached the sliding glass door, causing Senku’s claim mark to begin throbbing. There wasn’t pain, just anticipation building up in his gut and the hormones rising to his chest, then to his heart. 

       Gen slid open the door and saw his beloved boyfriend leaning over the counter, two bottles of Senku cola to greet him alongside his lover. His blue eyes sparkled, mouth agape as he saw the scene before him. Senku had to have gotten more handsome in the time he was away, or his eyes, heart or brain were working to deceive him.

      “Senku-Chan~! I’m home~!” Gen cooed, Senku wasting no time in walking around the island and embracing his partner after Gen had opened up his arms, inviting Senku to greet him more intimately than just a plain hello. 

      “Gen…” Senku said quietly, running his fingers down the back of his boyfriend’s head, like he was making sure Gen was real. His loneliness and madness during university drove him up the wall. Now, it was time to relax, let loose, and have fun with Gen. the good times were only just beginning.

     “Senku-Chan… I’ve never seen you this clingy before! Are you feeling okay?” Gen asked, rubbing his boyfriend’s back.

     “… missed you,” Senku muttered into Gen’s shoulder, like biting the bullet. It was hard, so, so very challenging for Senku to be vulnerable. It took everything in him to say how much he really missed Gen. He tightened his arms around Gen’s waist, afraid he’d lose his boyfriend to his showbiz career again. 

     “Oh, my gosh, my love,” Gen said, breaking the hug to cup Senku’s face, “Senku-Chan being open with me… well, I missed you too. You simply take my breath away every time I see you.~”

      Senku scoffed, amused by Gen’s compliment, “you’re only saying that because I made you the cola.”

      Gen gasped, holding his hands up and his eyes going so wide they may as well burst out of his skull. He knew Senku was teasing him, yet he didn’t expect it to be this quick from when he walked through the door!

      “HUH?! After many months, Senku-Chan, this is how you greet me? No, no way! I’m saying that because… you… your…  your arms.. they’re so much more toned. A-and your face is cuter. Your scent is… delectable.” Gen was being dramatic, teasing and overly zealous. He loved watching Senku’s face contort with amusement.

      “My face and scent haven’t changed.”

      “Then maybe I just fell in love with a man who has sooooo much to love, I could go my whole life finding new things to admire about him!” Gen said, leaning closer with his hands on Senku’s chest. The tension was building up, Senku taking in Gen’s omegan scent like it was the best shot of heroin he had received.

       “Nice save, mentalist. Now shut up and kiss me.”

        Straight to the point, brutal, and blunt- Gen fed off that. Senku was a man of logic, and logic he’d most certainly get; with Gen’s lips servicing his. The two kissed, Senku’s arms around Gen’s waist, Gen throwing his arms over Senku’s shoulders and playing with his baby hairs as they made out in the kitchen. 

       Taiju and Yuzhuriha knew better than to bother Senku when Gen first set foot in the door. They’d say their hellos when the time was right. In the meantime, Senku and Gen savored each other, making out passionately in the kitchen. Gen was pressed against the island as Senku took control. Despite his mental fortitude and ability to handle himself, even Senku got lost in the fog from time to time. It was only natural for an alpha. 

      Gen moved his mouth with Senku, running his hands up and down through Senku’s hair and letting out a whimper during the kiss. He pushed a hand against his alpha’s cheek and panted when his lover pulled away, flushed and panting as much as he was from the sauna-like heat of their intimacy.

       “Senku-Chan is hungry,” Gen purred, “now, now, alpha, be a good boy and wait just a little longer.” 

       His innate desire to pleasure his omega was taking over until the brakes caused a screeching halt for him. Senku was going insane, even more so at the pet name. Still, his boyfriend was standing in front of him, and that was a leap in the right direction after months of being apart. Long distance was manageable for Senku- he loved Gen, he always would, but it was hard keeping his hands off him after 8 weeks, 9 hours, 3 minutes and 46 seconds of not seeing each other. Their relationship wasn’t just about getting in each other’s pants and should involve quality time together anyways. Senku sighed, rubbing the back of his neck and turning so his shoulder faced Gen.

      “Fair enough,” Senku smirked, “but I’m not starving. You’re here now. Let’s do something fun.”

       “Mhmmm~” Gen cooed, poking Senku’s cheek with his finger, “don’t eat me when I haven’t said hello to my friends, mm?”

       “Sure, I wanted to have a movie night with them anyways. Come see what Yuzuriha is making, will ya?” Senku asked, shrugging off Gen breaking their steamy make out session. He had to act professional, pull himself together and not become a knothead like Stanley could be at times.

       “Oh, ‘onderful-way!” Gen chirped, clasping his hands together, then leaning closer to Senku and whispering, “what’s she making, Senku-Chan?”

        Gen was curious, admittedly. Senku hardly mentioned Yuzhuriha working on anything unless it pertained to something that had a major impact on their lives. It wasn’t that Senku didn’t care- he often indulged Yuzuriha, it just seemed her projects were always more personal up until she paired up with Xeno. Not only was she attached to him, but to his pup.

       “Gifts for your owners,” Senku replied with a cheeky smirk, giving a peck on the cheek to his lovely mate. Maybe Taiju and Yuzhuriha were right. Popping the question to his boyfriend of 3, almost

4 years had to come eventually. Indulging the joke of Gen being Stanley and Xeno’s adopted son or cat was not something Senku had anticipated but sentiment could leak out of his skin like he had heart failure.

        Senku brought his lover into the living room to greet his best friends, an arm around his curvy, skinny waist. Senku’s fingers traced over Gen’s pelvis, feeling the bone underneath his shorts. It didn’t take a degree for Senku to notice Gen had lost weight since they’d last made love in his room on that fateful night. He didn’t say anything, opting to let Gen catch up with Senku’s childhood friends. Gen had cracked open his homemade Senku cola and took a swig of it before his grand greeting to his boyfriend’s best friends. 

      “Ah. It’s so good to be home! Taiju-Chan, Yuzhuriha-Chan, it’s wonderful to see you both. Aside from Senku, it’s been you two I’ve been dying to see!” Gen dramatically said, his hands gesturing as he spoke to indicate just how emotional he was. Senku knew there was truth to it, but also knew Gen was putting on a show for the other couple. Yuzhuriha surely knew it, and if Taiju did, he didn’t care. They accepted that Gen was like a silent agreement. After all, Gen didn’t do it out of malice.

      “Gen! It’s so good to see you! How are you? Did you get here okay?” Yuzuriha asked, hugging Gen.

      “Hey, Gen! I know you’re mainly here for Senku but I’m happy to see you! It’s been weird without you!” Taiju beamed, joining his girlfriend in a group hug. Senku watched the three, leaning against the doorframe of the living room with his arms crossed over his chest. His lips cracked a smile at the three some of the most special people to him. Gen’s blue eyes immediately locked with Senku’s, a stern and demanding gaze within the irises of Senku’s soulmate and true love. 

       Gen’s finger ushered for Senku underneath Yuzhuriha’s arm to join them, or else. The deadpan and hellish gaze gave that away easy enough. With a reluctant sigh, Senku awkwardly walked forward, dreading how Taiju may just crush him from the impending bear hug he was about to give the other three. He didn’t know his own strength at times, which made him an all around pacifist, except when it came to hugs.

       “Y-you big oaf-! You’re gonna fracture my ribs-!”

      “Simply enjoy the hug, my love~!” Gen cooed, pecking Senku’s cute forehead. The scientist flushed a shade of pink that his friends hadn’t seen since high school and he looked down, hugging them all quietly. Gen truly knew exactly how to work his magic on Senku, wrapping him around his finger like the slimy and shady magician he was. The four embraced each other like it had been years, soaking up their time together and finally rejoining after their jobs, school and responsibilities had torn them apart. Enduring a rut without Gen was hell for Senku- even with over the counter medications. At least Gen had suppressants and birth control to keep him safe. Senku had a dream and a boatload of work. Their worries were dwindling quickly as their anxieties resolved.

       The hug soon dispersed, the four standing still in the living room to catch up. Senku and Gen sat down together on the couch, Taiju was leaning against the doorway of the kitchen and living room, and Yuzhuriha had migrated back to her sewing desk to have a seat before she’d begin again.

      “I missed you guys so ‘uch-may..” Gen sighed, “twitter, tour and my fans have been ‘utal-bray.”

      “Rumors again?” Senku asked, deadpan and annoyed, “let them speculate, who cares.”

      “He does,” Yuzhuriha replied, “don’t you, Gen?”

      Senku chuckled, sticking his pinkie finger in his ear, “regardless, Gen and I don't have 1 millimeter of interest in sharing our relationship to the public. They don’t even know I exist.”

       “It’s not that I care, I just don’t want spies, you see!” Gen began dramatically, “it makes me woe, and I don’t want that for you, Senkie~!”

       “I don’t blame you! If I were you, I’d take your money and retire!” Taiju laughed, heading into the kitchen as his loud voice traveled throughout the house at the speed of light. Yuzhuriha caught wind of Senku and Gen blatantly flirting, so she turned around in her pink office chair with a soft smile to face her work. She was working on the fine details of the first onesie, fit for a newborn. 

      “The oaf makes a good point,” Senku said, glancing at his boyfriend, “take your money, and… we can… you know. Settle, invest, work.”

      “And~?” Gen purred, leaning closer to Senku, resting his head on his shoulder, “get married soon, have beautiful pups and a house, Senku-Chan?”

      “… perhaps.”

Chapter Text

      Dinner consisted of takeout sushi with a homemade dipping sauce made by Taiju and Yuzhuriha. The big couch in the living room contained more than enough space for both couples to snuggle together and watch their designated movie. After much discussion, the four settled on a zombie movie and following up with a chick flick (with a trip to McDonald’s break in between) 

      During the zombie movie, Senku criticized the movie frequently for its lackluster and inaccurate special effects. Taiju insisted on making popcorn so everyone was overfed that night, especially Yuzuriha. Senku didn’t eat much of it, but Gen and Yuzuriha snuck bites on it consistently, shrieking whenever there was a scare and clinging to his boyfriend. They had half the couch, and by the 90 degree turn where the couch turned inwards, Taiju and Yuzhuriha had claimed that side. Yuzhuriha’s head rested on Taiju’s shoulder throughout the duration of the movie, the two curled in a blanket like a pair of the sweetest burritos. Gen was doing something similar to them; he had taken the great courtesy of stealing the comforter decorated in the solar system from Senku’s bed. The comforter was a gift from Byakuya for his tenth birthday and the young scientist simply couldn’t part with it. 

       Gen cuddled into Senku’s ribs while the leek haired boy was upright, Gen curled up like a cat during the scarier parts of the movie and then hugged Senku over his shoulders, sitting upright when he was feeling braver. Yuzhuriha and Taiju laughed every time Gen screamed in horror from the practical effects of the zombies. 

       “It’s not that scary, mentalist,” Senku chuckled, knowing Gen’s memo very well. He wanted love and attention and was being far more dramatic than how he scared he actually felt. Still, Gen described horror movies as feeling like ‘bugs crawling under his skin’ when he knew a scare was coming up.

      “Hold me, Senku-Chan,” Gen whimpered, throwing his arms around his lover. Senku loved it deep down- the warranted attention from the man he loved and missed so dearly. He was more than accustomed to being away from Gen for months at a time and yet, it stung having to part ways with him every time he walked to his car just to go perform another show. It was something that the scientist’s brain knew was a pattern and he should be accustomed to, but much like a stubborn hangnail, he could never not feel the hurt. 

       Senku held Gen for the duration of the movie. Not truly from Gen’s supposed fear, but because the young alpha truly missed his new mate. Smelling Gen, having him there and seeing his eyes light up at the end of the movie when the heroes escaped the zombies all made Senku’s heart beat just a tiny bit quicker. It was like Byakuya had told him- being in love was physical, mental, and emotional, and it was okay to let go and allow it to happen. Senku was a skeptic of that until he met Gen on that fateful day. 

       After their zombie movie, the group of 4 went to their nightly trip to the McDonald’s drive thru in Gen’s car. Gen was driving with Senku in shotgun and Taiju and Yuzhuriha in the back, DJ-ing the music over the aux cord. Gen ordered a cream and sugar loaded coffee from the drive-thru with Senku ordering a black coffee and Big Mac meal. Taiju ordered a happy meal for laughs, and Yuzuriha ordered the chicken nugget meal to take back and munch on while they watched the next movie. 

        During the drive back, Gen went on and on about his shows, how his tour went and that he was glad it was over. He made a comment that stuck out to Senku above all else. It replayed in the mind of the observant scientist:

       “Ugh. It’s so ‘ary-scay being in the spotlight 24/7, you know? Some days I just want to retire and run away with Senku-Chan!”

         Senku knew what he needed to do for Gen, and it reminded him much of Stanley being forced into retirement from the Marines when Xeno fell pregnant. The media, his crazy ex and the fans were all pressuring Gen, and Senku couldn’t bear to sit back and watch it happen when it drove his lover as crazy as he was witnessing. Gen was putting on a show, but Senku knew how he really was- he could tell by the theatrics that Magma, the media and his staff (except Ukyo, bless his soul), drove him more insane with every passing hour.

          When they got back to the trio’s apartment, the moonlight shined in through the windows as their chick flick watch party played out, except this time, it was much more laid back, with more yawns around the room, mainly from Taiju. The hardworking and lovable oaf worked hard that day, and it eventually caught up with him, making him fall asleep in the middle of the movie. Taiju was lying beside his girlfriend and mate, Yuzhuriha giggling to Senku and Gen when she heard her love was asleep and snoring. Senku and Gen were on the adjacent couch and cuddled together like they hadn’t been apart for weeks, Gen with his head comfortably against Senku’s chest, hearing his heartbeat along with the chatter of the movie, a harmonious cocktail of relaxation.

       The environment calmed down with more of the friends falling sleep. Yuzhuriha was next, falling asleep in the last half hour of the movie, cuddled into Taiju’s side and with an arm over his chest. She slept silent as a mouse, just like how she did when they were kids during a sleepover at Taiju’s house on a weekend off from school.

        Senku was the only one to be awake the entire movie, snorting at the absurdity of the scenes that played out and running in circles within the confines of his own mind. He found it amusing he lost Taiju and Yuzhuriha to the sleep demon during the movie but was shocked when Gen fell, too, and right around when Yuzhuriha did. Senku wasn’t a man to admire others or praise them, especially someone who’d act like a weasel, such as Gen. He wished he could stop the very inner workings of time in that moment, watching the people he loved most be at peace and be there with him as the credits rolled. He didn’t dare move and disturb his boyfriend, choosing to watch the rise and fall of Gen’s body while he probably dreamt about a life so perfect it was scientifically unattainable. Senku’s eyes wandered Gen’s head and tried to peel back into that mind of his and uncover what he truly hid about himself. Senku ran his fingers delicately over Gen’s head and through the strands of white and black colored hair, counting every second that passed by as his boyfriend and best friends all slept in the room with him. He paid no mind to the movie playing in the background; Senku Ishigami often did things he normally wouldn’t to indulge his family. After all, it was perfectly logical and a fair trade-off. They helped him with his science projects and let him ramble for hours, so he would indulge in their leisurely activities, yet, that was what the scientist would tell himself if he ever felt he was too soft. It was no secret Senku did these things for the love of his people. 

        5 minutes, 43 seconds, 55 milliseconds.

              8 minutes, 16 seconds, 88 milliseconds.

                     ….16 minutes, 54 seconds….

        Senku snapped himself back into reality. He desperately wanted to go to bed, and it was as if Gen had read his mind, that sneaky little rat. The mentalist lifted his head and rubbed his eyes. 

       “Mm… good morning, Senku-Chan,” Gen whispered, “is it morning, or…?”

       “It’s been 45 minutes and 23 seconds since you fell asleep. Welcome back, Gen,” Senku replied with a smirk. Gen smacked Senku’s chest playfully and stifled back his giggles to avoid waking the other two. 

       “You’re ‘azy-cray, baby,” Gen whispered in a giggly tone. What did he just call Senku? Senku’s heart skipped a beat and he nearly lost count of how much time had passed since the movie finished. Gen hardly used pet names from the time Xeno said he felt like a troglodyte using them for Stanley.

       “Maybe. Ever meet a crazy bastard like me, who’s just so curious about this world, mentalist?”

       “Nope. It’s one of the many things I find simply ‘ot-hay about you.”

        Gen flipped his body over and crawled on top of Senku, straddling him and threw his arms around his neck to begin kissing him. The familiar softness, warmth and taste of Senku welcomed Gen back to his true home, away from the pressure of show business and putting on an act constantly. Having to hide his secondary gender, his boyfriend’s identity, his past and solely be known as Gen Asagiri, the magician. Sometimes he’d lose himself in his work. He wasn’t sure when, but the day he’d settle down with Senku was a day he’d been keenly looking forward to. If anyone was desperate and wishing they could swap places and be where Xeno and Stanley were, it was Gen.

        “Wow.. I needed that. Let’s go. Bed, now,” Senku whispered to Gen when their lips parted from each other they sucked in air.

        Gen got excited, his inner omega excited at the little praise he got from Senku. They hadn’t kissed in weeks, both of them touch starved and craving each other. Gen got off Senku, throwing the blanket he had claimed back on the couch and tiptoeing out of the room. He looked over his shoulder at Senku as they snuck out, covering his mouth from laughing at the obvious boner Senku had from their brief makeout session. The stark contrast of something so dirty being associated with Senku truly cracked Gen up when he wasn’t in the heat of the moment.

          Senku scoffed and went to his bathroom to pee, leaving Gen to be the first one to go in Senku’s bedroom. It was exactly how he left it the last time he came over. Senku’s bedspread, comforter, top sheet, and pillowcase were all a gift from Byakuya, with a spare blanket from Xeno and Stanley for a birthday a few years ago folded at the end of the bed. Gen simply adored how soft and comfortable Senku’s bed was, and it was greatly beneficial to him when Senku was folding him in half and balls deep.

        Gen got comfy underneath the blankets when he saw the silhouette of Senku leave the bathroom and go up the two small stairs to get to his bedroom. He shut and locked the door, ready to pounce on Gen. Gen played dumb, of course, adoring to mess with his boyfriend now that they’d be together again for the foreseeable future. 

       “No fucking way,” Senku said to himself, seeing Gen’s back to him made him think Gen had fallen asleep in the time it took him to piss and brush his teeth. It took everything in that mentalist not to laugh, but his training in the industry made his acting better than most.

        Senku went to take off his pants and put on some pajama shorts from his dresser with an annoyed huff from across the room. Gen couldn’t help himself, shooting up with life from across the room and scaring the ever loving shit out of his precious Senku from a shout of, “boo!”

       Senku gasped, grasping his dresser with his free hand and rolling his eyes when he saw Gen was back in their world. He must’ve never gone to dreamland in the first place.

        “Just so you know, mentalist, you’re gonna get it for that.”

       Gen was going insane with all the dirty thoughts that ran rampant in his mind from that one statement alone. Senku practically pounced on him, his pants half on and eyes full of anticipation. Senku, with Gen going along with him, shimmied his way between the omega’s slender, smooth and soft legs, running his hand up and down until he decided that bottoms weren’t needed anymore for Gen and pulled them down. 

       Compared to the last time they saw each other, the sex was slower and much more passionate for the night they spent together. They weren’t pressed for time and the only stipulation was low volume, which was easy to work with when the omega Senku was sleeping with was a master of deception and concealing things. Their clothes came off after a half hour of foreplay and Senku was taking Gen to seven minutes in heaven when he went in after weeks of being apart. Gen’s hole was warm, slick filled and welcoming, Senku couldn’t stifle back his moans and threw Gen’s legs over his shoulders, leaning down and kissing him deeply while they became one. 

       It was magical. Having Senku’s knot pop inside Gen was given the okay after Senku said one thing to his mate.

       “Pill?” Senku asked in a husky voice between thrusts, Gen nodding. At that point in their fun, he was in complete submission to his brilliant alpha, and the birth control Gen took would save them both from a problem that as much Gen wished he could have, couldn’t deal with when Senku was still in university. The pup fever from Xeno was contagious and infected Gen.

       Senku’s knot popped in Gen and released. Exhaustion hit them both and they collapsed, tired, and feeling loved by the other. Senku’s knot stayed in Gen when the omega dozed off first, Senku cuddling right up to him with his knot still inside his love. It was incredibly painful and could potentially be life threatening to an omega if an alpha’s knot was suddenly removed without completion. Because Gen was already asleep, Senku let it slide and chose to sleep as one.  

~

     The Next Day

      That morning, Senku and Gen joined Taiju and Yuzhuriha for breakfast and laughed about everyone falling asleep during the movie the night before. Of course, Senku and Gen excluded what they did after the fact. 

       The two lovers packed up their bags and decided to go to Byakuya’s first and then go see Xeno and Stanley after having lunch with Senku’s father and sharing the news of their mating from weeks ago. Senku made it crystal clear he only wished to tell people in person, saving his father, stepmom, and uncles/brothers/friends- whatever they were- for last. 

      Senku and Gen piled into the small black car Gen had after bidding a tough goodbye to Taiju and Yuzhuriha. They made future plans to have them come down to Byakuya’s and Xeno and Stanley’s to potentially have a dinner sometime and give the onesies to the expecting parents. Yuzhuriha seemed nervous, but agreed. Yuzuriha seemed conflicted on when she’d deliver those sacred gifts, shoulders rigid at her desk when Senku had told her, “whenever you choose to deliver those, make sure it’s a good time for Xeno.”

      Yuzuriha quickly nodded to try and brush off the fears she had of Stanley and Xeno, “o-of course,” she had stuttered out. 

       With future plans and promises to come back into motion, Senku and Gen left to go see the second part of their family. 

~

      To say Senku was worried at his stepmother and father’s absence when he got to the big house they lived in was an understatement. Lillian’s Lexus and Byakuya’s Toyota were both parked in the driveway, so where the hell were they?

      Gen hugged Senku from behind with worry, the two hour commute back was brutal and they both wanted to unwind with family that wasn’t there. Until Senku’s phone buzzed, Gen grabbing it before Senku could and holding it up so they both could see the notification pop up on the Lock Screen (which was currently a selfie Gen took with Senku at a carnival a year ago) from Byakuya. 

       Dad: Hey kiddo! Come on next door, Lillian and I are visiting!

       Senku was elated and excited to find out the four were all next door and down the small hill from Byakuya’s house. Gen smirked at Senku, patting his belly, “last one to the driveway is a rotten egg~”

       “What are you, five?” Senku snorted. Suddenly, Gen was gone. Oh hell no. 

      The scientist kicked into rocket fuel and zoomed right up to Gen, trying not to lose his balance as he ran down the sidewalk beside him. Gen was fast, but Senku wouldn’t let him win so easily. He passed Gen by the skin of his teeth and was able to see Stanley smoking outside and watching the two of them race each other. Senku internally cursed, deciding to pretend Stanley wasn’t there watching them act like children and likely stifling back a laugh. Senku’s feet hit the dirt of the driveway where Stanley’s truck and Xeno’s car were parked, and he threw a fist into the air.

      “That,” Senku panted, “… is ten billion percent my win.”

      Gen stopped running and went into a walk, panting and collapsing dramatically in the driveway, plopping down and crossing his legs. The driveway was a mere dirt road with some rocks, so he’d dirty himself. With it being late June, Gen didn’t mind being outside as much in the heat of the summer.

      “The fuck did I just watch?” Stanley asked, snorting and puffing out smoke.

      “Me. Winning,” Senku answered proudly, with his ever-so-famous smirk, “good to see you haven’t quit yet.”

      “Nope. Won’t be happenin’ anytime soon,” Stanley replied, a smirk over his face as well, enjoying his banter with the kid Xeno took under his wing.

       “How’s… Xeno-Chan?” Gen called from the driveway, sprawling out dramatically with a hint of exhaustion.

        “Why don’t you come find out?” Stanley replied, dropping his cigarette and crushing it under his shoe. He ushered them in with a hand gesture, Senku turning around to make sure Gen actually got up and waited for him to walk into the house together. They both removed their shoes by the door on the porch, then opened the door to Xeno and Stanley’s house, the house that Gen especially missed so damn much. He couldn’t keep count of how many nights and days he’d spend with them both, dragging Senku along with him.

       “Look who I found out there,” Stanley said proudly, presenting Senku and Gen to Byakuya, Lillian and Xeno, all three in the small kitchen of the cozy home, seemingly just chatting away. There was an ultrasound photo of the pup on the fridge and a pot over the stove, like plans to have lunch together were worked out. 

       “Gen! Welcome back! Senku, hey kiddo!” Byakuya chirped, going from standing across from Xeno to his son, embracing him and patting Gen’s shoulder. Senku couldn’t not hug his father back, when he was gone for school, he missed his old man more than he’d like to admit. He went quiet as he hugged his dad, Gen deciding to be the one to say hello to everyone while discreetly patting Senku on the back as a ‘good job, you’re being a good son’.

        “Hellooo everyone! It’s so good to see you all~!” Gen beamed.

        “It’s great to have everyone back together!” Lillian smiled, having turned to face the boys that walked in the house. She knew Senku wasn’t a big hugger to begin with and decided to greet them from where she was and let them both decide if they wanted one.

       “I see our stray cat and leek have returned. Welcome back. You’re just in time for lunch. It will be ready in ten minutes,” Xeno said, looking to his left when he felt an arm around his shoulder. Stanley was weary, even if he knew everyone around him- his instinct to love and protect Xeno overpowered everything else. It was silent and unspoken between everyone in that room- never touch Stanley Snyder’s omega, let alone when he was pregnant. 

       Byakuya let go of Senku from the hug after a moment and allowed his son to take in the sights of everyone in the room. Senku regrouped himself quickly, trying not to get emotional over seeing his beloved father again. He was such a daddy’s boy and it was embarrassing, as much as he adored Byakuya.

       Senku cleared his throat at the near slip of his front, glancing at Gen, wondering if it was time to tell their family about their semi-recent change in their relationship. Gen smiled and gave a nod to Senku, intertwining their fingers.

       “Gen and I wanted to tell all of you that we’re mated. We waited to tell you all in person, so… I’m glad you’re all here, I guess.”

       Byakuya and Lillian lit up like two kids on Christmas. Lillian didn’t bother initiating a hug with the boys, Byakuya throwing his arms around both Senku and Gen and even kissing them both on the tops of their heads. Gen and Senku’s heights never reached the height of the loving dad, so it was easy for Byakuya to nab a kiss to them both. He was ecstatic and saw his son’s face contort with embarrassment.

       “Sorry, son, I’m just so happy! Does that mean I’ll be a father to Gen soon?!” Byakuya looked over his shoulder at the other adults, “this is amazing!” 

       Lilian went over to the boys and patted them both atop their heads, “I’m so happy for you both! I knew Gen was an excellent addition to this family!”

       Although they weren’t affectionate at that moment, Senku’s longtime mentors were both genuinely happy for the two kids. They watched Senku grow up, having babysat him for Byakuya many, many times in the past, seeing Senku grow up was poignant to both Xeno and Stanley. They weren’t heartless; they loved and cared for Senku like he was their own when the three of them were just pups themselves.

       Stanley cooly kept his posture, leaning against the counter beside Xeno, arms crossed as he scoped out the room with his amber eyes until they met Gen’s.

      “About damn time,” Stanley chuckled, “I think we’ll keep you for awhile, Gen. You’re pretty much our flesh and blood.”

      “Indeed,” Xeno said, his head resting against Stanley’s shoulder, “that’s a big milestone. I’m very proud and happy for you both.”

      Gen felt like he could cry. His future in-laws, NASA scientist and marine sniper were being the sweetest and incredible to him and Senku. Byakuya already talking about marriage between them really put things into perspective to Gen- he wanted that ring, and he wanted it then and there. 

      “Byakuya, I- I haven’t thought about that quite yet, I haven’t graduated!” Senku insisted to his father, who was in shambles from how happy he was.

      “Can I see it? The mark?” Byakuya asked, Senku gave an “ugh” and reluctantly moved his shirt collar down a few centimeters to present the claim mark from Gen to his father. Byakuya fawned over his son, proud to see Senku truly ‘becoming a man’ and ‘preparing to marry Gen’. Senku was a ball of nerves, both frustrated and embarrassed. He was dreading the whole engagement ring search, to which he’d consult his fellow alphas for help. His options? Byakuya and Stanley. Two wildly different people with different views would help him in his search to gather different kinds of data so he could weigh his options. 

       While Byakuya and Lillian had Senku, Gen ran over to Stanley and Xeno and threw his arms around both of them. Both exchanged looks of shock that morphed into tender, loving and happy looks. They weren’t parents to a baby yet, so having Gen and Senku around made them feel like they had plenty of experience. 

      Xeno and Stanley were the closest people Gen had to a proper parental figure. He adored Byakuya and Lillian, but something about him clicked more with Xeno and Stanley. They felt like a unit of misfits from the Ishigami’s. Xeno and Stanley were a childless couple for years and having Gen to claim as theirs alongside Senku gave them another person to protect and teach, and unlike Senku, Gen listened much more eagerly and closely.

       Both Xeno and Stanley, who were accustomed to watching from across the room, were stunned when Gen hugged them both, Gen’s hug delicate and mindful of Xeno’s belly. Of course, they both put an arm around the darling omega that they reminisced about when he first started seeing Senku. The nights Gen would text Stanley and ask to come over and stay because Senku was tied up in his studies. The times Xeno would show him an experiment pertaining to psychology. And here they were, becoming parents themselves and congratulating Gen on mating Senku. Life waited for no one when major changes happened.

       “I love you guys,” Gen said to them, then looking over his shoulder to include the Ishigami’s,  “all of you. Thank you all for taking me in.”

       “Gen. You’re a good boy to us. Don’t forget that,” Xeno said to the magician, “no matter what. Stan and I will always be present for you and Senku. Isn’t that right, Stan?”

       “Yeah. It’s been a pleasure. Here’s to more fun, kiddo,” Stanley asked, fluffing Gen’s hair, “make sure to invite us to the wedding, too.”

       Gen and Senku, needless to say, were very loved by the people they held near and dear. It wasn’t hard to love them, either. 

       Byakuya and Lillian gave a loving hug to Gen after harassing Senku. Gen showed them his claim mark after their warm hug, of course, making Byakuya gush from just how tooth-rottingly sweet it was. He built his family from the ground up and the old man's joy was contagious. 

      “You’re truly apart of this family now! Gen, this is wonderful, and I cannot wait for the next chapter!” The cheerful astronaut said, fluffing Gen’s hair, “you’re a good boy. Don’t ever forget that.”

       Lillian and Byakuya both gave Gen a kiss on the top of his head, like proud parents should be. Gen felt truly loved by both sets of couples. Although not blood, their admiration for each other was unshakable. They, like Xeno and Stanley, took him and Senku in, and he wouldn't trade them for the world. 

       Senku had gone to see Stanley and Xeno while Gen was soaking in some loving time with his boyfriend’s parents. He was met with a pat on the shoulder from Stanley, who was like a proud father to Senku.

        “Finally making the trek to settle down, huh?” Stanley chuckled, expecting that to be shut down by Senku.

        “I.. can possibly work it into my schedule,” Senku shrugged, trying to evade the question with what he knew was a shareable, concrete fact, “I’ll be working at JAXA and going to the moon someday.”

        Xeno smiled proudly at his dear mentee, like a mother figure to him, “I know you will. You’re as sharp witted of a pro as I am. Just don't leave him behind, he's a good one."

        The three looked to Gen who was showing Byakuya and Lillian pictures of the sunsets that he took while on tour. Although preoccupied and unnoticing, Senku saw how full of life his mate was. How happy he looked; the sparkle in his eyes, the relaxed muscle tone and bubbly laugh that could light up the darkest caves and crevices.

         Senku smiled back at Xeno, the two scientists showing their deep admiration and respect for each other through their faces alone. Senku and Xeno only smiled with genuine emotion around people they really cared for. And of course, Xeno was emotionally dense, but even he could see it. Senku watched Gen like he was the only person that mattered.

        The conversation switched gears yet again with Senku trying not to come undone from romance.

       “Quite the welcome mat you’ve rolled out for us, doc. What’s the catch?” Senku joked, Xeno chuckling. He was glad his protégée asked.

       “Would you like to see what I’ve been working on?” Xeno asked, gears flipped back to his token smirk from his once gentle smile to the younger scientist.

        “Lead the way, old man,” Senku replied, disappearing with Xeno into the living room and to his computer desk. Xeno didn’t have a lab in their Japanese home, leaving room for much to be desired when the renovations eventually did happen. If Stanley got enough money from Ryusui, they could potentially add on a basement, or attic. With Xeno out of work since the day he found out he was pregnant, their finances were strained.

       Stanley sighed, running a hand through his golden locks as he watched the nerd he loved so much run off with Senku. It was fun and gratifying to watch Xeno talk about his second love with someone who was just as crazy as he was. It made Stanley grateful for Gen, who was in the same boat as he was: with no clue what their partners were talking about and just enjoying their company.

       “Did your wife run off~?” Gen purred over the chatter of Byakuya and Lillian amongst each other.

       “He always does,” Stanley chuckled, “I think he can get tired of being tied down by the baby, he gets small bursts of energy sometimes.”

       Ah, Xeno’s energy bursts typically consisted of nesting with Stanley’s clothes, a spur-of-the-moment experiment, or grocery shopping with his husband. 

       “Let them have their fun, I know what we can do~! Right, Byakuya-Chan?” Gen asked, earning a beam and thumbs up from Senku’s parents.

       “What have ya got in mind?” Stanley asked, curious, arms folded over his chest. He was still lifting weights and exercising after his departure from the marines, his massive arms intimidating to Gen. The little omega was glad to have someone so strong as an ally, he felt pity for Stanley’s old and new enemies.

        Gen ushered Stanley to lean down so he could whisper into his ear. The man was simply too tall for Gen to comfortably reach him! The alpha’s curiosity got the best of him, so he obliged to make his cat happy.

        “We plan for the pup~” Gen whispered, “and perhaps make her a crib~? Pick her name, even?”