Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Bullshit.

Everything was bullshit.

Steve was bullshit. His relationship with Nancy was bullshit. His whole life was bullshit.

Bullshit, bullshit, bullshit.

Nancy didn’t love him—how could she? It was painfully clear that the past year had been a lie. Steve had been a fool to believe otherwise.

What had he been thinking, convincing himself they were soulmates? True soulmates were incredibly rare. To think that something so prestigious and elite could happen to him? It was idiotic.

He was bullshit.

Steve Harrington didn’t deserve nice things. It was something he should have learned by now, yet here he was, heartbroken and alone. Some things never change.

Nancy Wheeler deserved far more than anything he could ever offer. She embodied everything Steve valued in a partner, yet for some reason, she had chosen him. She was beautiful, intelligent, and compassionate but also headstrong and fiercely loyal. It never made sense that she could love him, but Steve had allowed his guard to drop. He convinced himself that what they had was real, despite knowing better. It had been far too easy to fall into the loving words of support she offered, to believe he found someone who cared about who he was on the inside—the real Steve Harrington—and accepted him without judgment. It was a kind of love he had certainly never received from his parents, friends, or previous flings, and he allowed himself to become blinded by the security their relationship offered. It was only in the past few months that things started to shift.

Something was brewing in the air between them, some unspoken tension, but Steve chalked it up to the stress of the new school year. Nancy took her grades seriously, something he struggled to relate to. It was biting him in the ass now. His college prospects, or lack thereof, were grim, and it weighed heavily on his mind. Steve didn’t know what his future held, and it was a terrifying realization. Focusing too much on himself, however, had been a mistake. Nancy soon became quick to anger and started picking fights over the smallest issues. When he confronted her about the sudden change, hoping for an open conversation, she brushed him off. According to her, it was all in his head, and he, being the bumbling idiot he was, believed her. It was easier than facing the truth.

What a fool he was.

Steve couldn’t say he was surprised by her outburst. Clearly, she was struggling and didn’t feel she could trust him. He was willing to accept that. Everyone was entitled to their secrets, and Steve didn’t push, wanting to respect her space. She would open up eventually, right? She had to, and he would be there for her, ready and waiting. The one thing he never anticipated, however, was her throwing their love back in his face.

Love wasn’t something he took for granted. Nancy was aware of this, as well as his turbulent relationship with his parents. She knew about his insecurities and crippling self-doubt. Perhaps that was why her rejection felt so innately harrowing. He could remember the day she first told him she loved him. It was Valentine's Day 1984—cheesy, but fitting. They had just exchanged gifts and were snugging on the bed, engaging in mindless pillow talk, when she said it. Steve knew he tended to fall too hard and too fast, and he wanted to make sure he did right by Nancy. He didn’t want to rush into things, but hearing her say those words to him? Unprompted? It made his heart stop. For the first time in his life, he felt a warmth spreading through his chest, an acceptance, and it was like he was floating on air. It was a fantastic feeling, and he knew at that moment that Nancy Wheeler was the one for him. There would be no one else.

Life could throw whatever it wanted at them. They were in love. That was all that mattered, and the following few months? They were perfect. Steve finally knew what it was like to be loved, and it was addictive.

How pathetic.

No wonder she thought their relationship was bullshit. She told him she loved him, and he ate it up, hook, line, and sinker. The fact that somebody admitted love for him should have been the first red flag. Steve should have known better.

Things only got worse when he presented as an omega.

Steve could admit that it came as a shock. He had spent most of his life assuming he would be a beta, like his parents. Most kids tended to present in the same dynamic as their parents, and the Harringtons came from a long line of betas. When he was younger, he had the unrealistic dream of presenting as an alpha, but when he lacked the typical aggression and domineering traits associated, he just assumed he would be a beta. Not presenting like others his age made that belief even easier to assume. Being a beta suited him just fine—they were the ideal gender and didn’t have to deal with heats, ruts, scents, or any of that pheromone nonsense. Nancy might have been an alpha, but that was something he admired about her. She was stubborn, bordering on arrogant, but he found her confidence insanely attractive.

Presenting as an omega should have made them more compatible, right? The thought laid heavy on his mind as he suffered through his first and unexpected heat that summer.

Steve knew he didn’t fit the mould of a typical male omega. He was too tall, had too much muscle mass, and his personability was far too combative. It didn’t help that most male omegas presented around fourteen or fifteen, and Steve being a late bloomer showed. While his body eventually adjusted, curves forming in areas that were otherwise flat, it left him feeling unnerved. His body no longer felt like his own, and he didn’t recognize it. He thought being with Nancy would help, but she only seemed dejected and started pulling away. Their relationship felt different, but Steve didn’t want to face that Nancy might stop loving him over something so trivial. It wasn’t like he chose to present as an omega. He was still the same Steve Harrington he had always been.

Was his presentation the reason she fell out of love with him? Did she ever love him to begin with?

The truth didn’t matter. Not really.

His sole focus in that moment was on the crippling pressure bearing down on his chest, making it impossible to catch his breath. It was excruciating, like a heavy weight was squeezing the air out of his lungs, crushing him from the inside out. Steve leaned against the nearby wall, bringing a hand to his chest and trying to ease the pain as he took a few heavy breaths to calm himself. He felt empty, as if he was missing something inside himself that had always been there. Nancy had taken a part of him and stomped on it, leaving him without the one thing he needed to live.

Why did everything hurt? It didn’t make sense.

It took everything in him not to break down in tears, but Steve had the sense to know there were too many prying eyes. The hallway was far from empty, and he didn’t want to add any more fuel to the dumpster fire that was his love life. He was sure more than a few questioning eyes followed as he and Nancy entered the bathroom together, the alpha clearly in a state of distress. They would have overheard their spat and know that he was bullshit and that Nancy hated him. Steve didn’t feel the need to give any more truth to those words, and getting caught crying? That would only prove he was the pathetic, needy, bullshit omega Nancy thought he was.

Wait, did she say he was pathetic and needy? Probably, and it wasn’t like he could deny it.

Steve just needed to get away. The party was too much—too loud, too crowded, and too overwhelming. He couldn’t get his bearings straight. The scent of arousal, sex, drugs, sweat, and smoke clung to the air and every surface, wrecking havoc on his senses. There was no way he could keep himself composed. It was unbearable, and it felt like everything was amplified, hitting him on a fundamental level, deep in his core. Teenagers were drunkenly stumbling against him, whispering, screaming, fighting, dancing, and drinking, all while the stereo blared. Steve was barely able to make it down the stairs without tripping. Everything was so loud—it hurt! Steve hurt.

He needed the comfort of his bed, to cover himself in his soft blankets and to feel them against his naked skin. That was his solace. His bed was the one place he felt safe, and he knew he would be able to decompress there. He just needed to make it home. Then he could break down, and nobody would have to know.

That thought was the only thing on his mind as he pushed his way through his drunken classmates. He didn’t need to turn around to know that several of them had turned to look at him, their eyes staring daggers into his back. The thought of their skin brushing against him, their sweat mingling with his as he passed, made him want to vomit, and he gripped the inside of his jacket pockets tightly, trying to avoid any accidental contact. There was no way he could handle it, not tonight.

It was only when he entered the crowded kitchen that he spied Jonathan Byers standing awkwardly by the punch bowl. He wasn’t wearing a costume and stood out like the sore thumb.

Why was Jonathan here, looking like a creep?

Christ, even thinking hurt.

Steve struggled to focus on anything other than the sorrow building inside him, threatening to swallow him whole. It would have been easy to give in. He wanted to, yet somehow, he kept his wits about him. Barely.

His memory was fuzzy, but he vaguely recalled Nancy wanting to invite Jonathan to the party. It irritated him. Call it paranoia, but he always suspected there was more than just friendship brewing between them. It didn’t take a genius to notice that Jonathan had feelings for her, but Nancy always insisted she felt nothing beyond brotherly love for the beta. Steve knew they were close after the events in the Upside Down. They bonded in a way he simply couldn’t compete with, and he stopped trying early in their relationship. Mike and Will being best friends only strengthened their bond, especially over the last year. There were countless rumours about the two hooking up behind his back, but Steve trusted Nancy. She was loyal, loved him, and would never betray him, not like that. That didn’t mean he had to be friends with Jonathan, though. They weren’t, and they never would be. Still, this provided him with an opportunity to make sure Nancy got home safely.

He took a deep breath before heading toward the beta.

Steve was barely able to string together the few necessary sentences, his voice wavering in a way he wasn’t used to or comfortable with as he explained the situation. His throat felt tight as he forced each syllable out, and he could only hope he was making sense. He could feel Jonathan studying him, giving him a pointed look before nodding, seeming to understand. Without a word, he turned on his heel and headed up the staircase toward the bathroom, his footsteps echoing softly against the wooden steps as he disappeared from view.

Nancy was wasted and made it clear that she didn’t want Steve or his help. However, petulant as the thought was, Steve knew she would eagerly accept it from Byers. He tried not to let it bother him. This was what Nancy needed, and he wasn’t going to deny her anything. Steve knew he could trust Jonathan to keep her safe. That was all he cared about as he pushed his way through his classmates, raising a hand to shield his tearful eyes from view as he searched for the exit.

When did he even start crying? He hadn’t noticed until the tears distorted his vision, turning everything into a watery haze. It was humiliating.

Since when had Steve Harrington become such an over-emotional wreck?

Nothing made sense anymore. He had been dumped before. Rejection wasn’t new to him, but he had never felt this thoroughly destroyed. This felt different, more personal, like he could no longer be himself. His chest continued to tighten as he released chocked breathes, and his thoughts scattered in all directions, unable to settle. Every part of his body ached with a dull, relentless pain. It was as if he wasn’t in control of himself or his emotions. It was terrifying. He felt unanchored and lost in his own skin.

Why was his body reacting so intently? This didn’t feel like something he could simply power through. Had he always been this weak? This vulnerable? The realization was unsettling. How could he protect anyone if he couldn’t protect himself? If he broke down so easily?

Easy. He couldn’t. He was useless. Useless and bullshit.

Steve stumbled aimlessly outside, barely aware of his surroundings. The crisp autumn air did little to pull him back to reality, though he could feel it whispering against his cheeks. He felt strange, like his body was operating on autopilot, driven by an unspoken need to get home and collapse into his bedsheets. At this point, that was the only thing that mattered. His bed wouldn’t betray him, call him bullshit, or hurt him. It was the one thing he could rely on.

As he trudged along, he heard the distant crunch of gravel beneath his feet and realized he must have made it to the driveway. That was a positive, though Steve barely had a second to process the information before he collided with another, stumbling backward. He was barely saved from falling on his ass by a sturdy set of hands gripping his shoulders and steadying him. When he looked up, it was to the sight of Billy Hargrove staring back at him, his head tilted and blue eyes opened wide with concern.

Perfect.

As if his night couldn’t get any worse, this was the final nail in the coffin.

There was something about Billy that got under his skin. It wasn’t something Steve could easily put into words, but he could feel his skin prickle whenever they were in the same room. The less time he had to spend with the egotistical alpha, the better. Steve had tried to limit their interactions. He found it bizarre how Billy would shamelessly leer at his body, especially during gym class. It was brazen and difficult to brush off, though Steve had to admit that he allowed his thoughts to drift toward the alpha far more often than he would have liked. He was just curious about their apparent hostility! It wasn’t that he liked him or anything, but Billy made himself hard to ignore.

Whatever.

They didn’t get along. It was as simple as that, though Steve did somewhat enjoy their banter, not that now was the time to focus on that. After everything with Nancy, he didn’t think he had the willpower to put up with the loaded insults or the overbearing arrogance that the alpha loved to strut around, particularly around him. Steve couldn’t handle it, not when it felt like his world was crumbling around him. His only focus was on not breaking down, and Billy was the last person he wanted to be around when he was feeling this unstable.

Why was Billy even outside? Shouldn’t he be inside getting sucked off by Tammy Thompson? She had made it clear to everyone that those were her intentions for tonight, and it wasn’t like many were apt to say no to such an offer. It was well-known around the school that Tammy knew what she was doing in that department. She gave the best blowjobs. Steve knew from personal experience, and Billy would be a fool to pass her up.

… not that it was important or anything.

Thinking about Billy getting his dick wet wasn’t something he should be wasting his thoughts on. Why was he?

Steve could already feel a headache starting to form, a relentless throb starting from the base of his neck and radiating up his skull. His breathing remained uneven, and his mounting distress was coming increasingly evident. The sensation of something drawing him inward, only to squeeze and crush him from the inside out, was deeply unsettling, and the fact that it hadn’t dampened was making him grow worried. He couldn’t understand why his body was reacting so violently, but the pain was becoming increasingly unbearable. Every pulse in his head and every uneven breath seemed to amplify his discomfort.

All he wanted was to be in his bed. Was that too much to ask for?

With a shake of his head, Steve sidestepped past the alpha, feeling the jagged gravel bite into the soles of his shoes as he dragged his feet. Ignoring Billy was the only viable option, lest he humiliate himself further. He didn’t make it more than a step before Billy reached out, fingers latching onto his shoulder with a firm grip and spinning him around until they were face to face.

What the hell?

“Fuck off, Hargrove,” Steve growled, stepping backwards to put some space between them. He wasn’t in the mood for another confrontation tonight.

Instead of backing away, Billy brought his half-finished cigarette to his mouth, taking a slow, deliberate drag. The ember, glowing briefly in the dim light, highlighted the brilliant cerulean of his eyes, making them appear even more striking in the starlight. Steve couldn’t tear his gaze from the scene, even as the alpha tossed the bud to the ground, stepping on it.

Of course Billy was smoking. When wasn’t he? It explained why he was outside, though Steve suspected Tina would have turned a blind eye to smoking indoors—cigarettes were hardly the worst thing being consumed by the student population of Hawkins tonight. He swore he saw Eddie Munson lurking around the edge of the property earlier, likely dealing something stronger.

Maybe he would have something that would calm Steve down? It was worth than a few thoughts.

If he were smart, Steve would turn around and continue on his way. Conversations with Billy never ended well for either of them, but something about the way the alpha smoked was utterly captivating. Maybe it was the way the moonlight highlighted his toned chest, the muscles glistening beneath his telltale leather jacket, or the rhythmic hollowing of his cheeks as he inhaled and exhaled, but it was hard to look away. Billy usually made for an enticing sight. Steve would be lying if he said he didn’t enjoy admiring it—something his mind chose to focus on at that moment. Tonight felt different, and he blamed it on his hormones. Billy wasn’t wearing anything under his jacket, perfecting his look as The Terminator, right down to the fingerless leather gloves and skin-tight jeans. Steve may be bullshit, but he wasn’t blind, and being this close? It was impossible not to be affected.

After being rejected by his alpha, his inner omega was desperate to feel whole again. Billy presented that opportunity, reluctant as Steve was to admit it. His thoughts drifted back to their earlier interaction, to the image of the alpha with beer sliding down his chest, his scent rich and sweet as he postured in front of him. At the time, Steve had thought the behaviour was ridiculous, but his omega was second-guessing that assessment, an unfamiliar feeling brewing in his lower stomach.

Would Billy taste as lovely as he smelled? Steve had an urge to plaster himself on the alpha and lick every inch of skin that he could reach. That would make him feel better, he was certain.

As if he could read his mind, Billy bit his lip, his eyes narrowing with a thoughtful glint. His eyebrows lifted slightly before he arched his head back just enough to expose the smooth, unblemished curve of his neck. The action was deliberate, almost provocative, as he let out a low, light-hearted laugh that seemed to ripple through the crisp air. Steve eagerly took in the sight, his eyes drinking in the view. When Billy eventually lowered his head, his lips curved into a smarmy, self-assured grin. He was fully aware of the effect he was having as his arms swung casually at his sides, oozing confidence. It was maddening.

“Someone’s feisty,” he mocked, raising an eyebrow in interest. “Probably would’ve been a hell of a lot more intimidating if you didn’t smell like you just got your heart trampled on. Trouble in paradise, sweetheart?”

Steve felt his jaw drop as he spun around, eyes scanning to see if anyone else was nearby.

Was Billy talking to him? Why?

They were completely alone, with only the relentless thumping of the music blasting from the house, echoing in the otherwise deserted driveway. It wasn’t a surprise. Steve knew the party had started to migrate into the backyard and nearby woods, but never the front. Few people were eager to get caught openly drunk or high where a passerby might see them. That still didn’t explain why Billy was talking to him, though. Didn’t the alpha have somewhere better to be? Like with cozying up to Tammy Thompson or Donna Perks? Shouldn’t he be getting his dick sucked by now?

The real question was why Steve was getting lost in silly fantasies when he should be focused on getting home. He couldn’t afford to get distracted. It was bad enough that his thoughts seemed to be coming in slower, like he was lost in some sort of haze.

“W-What?” he asked, feeling spacey.

This whole interaction felt off. It felt like the alpha was aware of something Steve was not, making him insecure.

Was he always this stupid? Why was he so stupid?

Billy chuckled, a low, rumbling sound that seemed to vibrate in the cool night air. His gaze locked onto Steve, and he could have sworn it lowered to lingered on his lips. The attention had Steve instinctively lick them, wetting them. Surely, he was imagining things, right? Lost in that unsettling thought, he barely registered Billy moving closer until the alpha’s hand was suddenly in his hair, fingers deftly tucking a strand behind his ear. The gesture was slow, purposeful, and far too intimate for two people who were supposed to be indifferent to each other. His breath hitched, the unexpected closeness making his heart pound in a way that felt vastly different from the pain he had been feeling only moments ago.

Steve couldn’t explain why he didn’t flinch away. He stood there, frozen, as those fingers lingered, brushing the soft skin behind his ear. The sensation was oddly calming, quieting the voice in his head that screamed to push the alpha away. The relentless weight in his chest began to lift, like a knot slowly unravelling, making it easier to breathe. That was the only reason he allowed the touch—or at least that’s what he kept telling himself.

“C’mon, princess. Something happened. You look like shit,” Billy drawled, tilting his hand to stroke a thumb against his cheek instead.

The touch was soothing. Steve leaned into it as the words seemed to blur together, sounding as though they were underwater.

Did Billy just call him princess? Had he heard that correctly? Surely not. The pet name seemed out of place, almost absurd, but then again, so was the whole conversation, wasn’t it? Steve wasn’t sure anymore. The nickname would have irritated him more if the comment about his appearance hadn't hit so hard. While he didn’t necessarily care if Billy found him appealing, the insult stung more than he wanted to admit. Despite his best efforts to ignore it, there was no denying that Billy was incredibly attractive. Hearing an alpha like him say that Steve looked like shit was a blow he wasn’t prepared for, not after everything that had happened with Nancy.

Not only was he bullshit, but now he looked like bullshit, too. No wonder nobody wanted him. What made it worse was that he thought he looked great tonight, like the old Steve Harrington, the beta, rather than the disaster he had felt like these past few months.

Could this night get any worse?

“Go fuck yourself,” Steve spat out, his voice tainted with a mix of anger, pain, and frustration.

He jerked his shoulders sharply, shrugging out of the hold with a forceful movement that sent him stumbling back a few steps. Each step afterwards was aimed at creating as much distance between them as possible. His vision was becoming obscured, and he could feel the sting of tears welling up in his eyes again, threatening to spill over.

Steve Harrington, always a mess.

How desperate had he become to seek comfort from Billy Hargrove of all people? What on earth was he thinking? The guy was an asshole and certainly not someone Steve should be leaning on. This sudden, uncharacteristic neediness was pathetic, but it was nothing more than a moment of weakness. Steve just needed to get back to his bed, to his sanctuary, and then everything would be okay.

No more humiliating himself.

Billy didn’t seem deterred as he burst into a hearty laugh, his head thrown back in a display that showcased the enticing curve of his neck, its flawless skin glistening subtly in the moonlight. Seeing this gesture again, and in such a short timeframe, was curious. It was unusual for an alpha. They typically preferred to assert dominance, and Steve couldn’t pretend that it didn’t draw his focus. The moment only lasted a second before Billy leaned forward again, his lips pursed into a teasing smile as if this whole encounter were a joke to him. It probably was, which only made Steve see red.

Why did everything in his life have to be such a fucking joke?

His scent must have given his mood away as Billy angled his head to the side and raised his arms in a placating gesture, as his posture turned subdued, making himself look smaller, almost submissive. It was a different look for him, and Steve couldn’t ignore how it made his heart flutter, making him feel seen for the first time in what felt like months.

“Hey, none of that now. I was being serious,” Billy insisted, stepping closer.

Steve released the beath he hadn’t realized he was holding and turned his gaze downward. He could feel his anger dissipate as the weight of the evening pressed on him.

This conversation was growing bothersome, and he was too unhinged to handle it. His thoughts and emotions were far too jumbled to make sense of anything, and it made him want to cry. Steve hated feeling like this, but he was simply too exhausted to untangle the complex web of motivations behind why Billy was showing him kindness. It wasn’t like they were friends, and most of their previous interactions had left him feeling more confused than anything. Billy was aggressive and revelled in asserting his dominance, particularly Steve was around. It was aggravating. Still, it had been a long time since anyone had shown him even a hint of compassion, however dubious it might be. While he might not understand why Billy was being kind to him, it was tempting to accept it, no questions asked. It wasn’t like what happened between him and Nancy would stay secret for long.

Against his better judgment, Steve decided to speak up.

“What, you want to hear about how Nancy thinks I’m bullshit? That our whole relationship is bullshit, and that I’m a bullshit omega?” He asked, shaking his head and letting out a heavy sigh, feeling defeated. “Go back inside, Hargrove. Bother someone who actually likes you.”

Steve didn’t wait for a response and turned on his heel, heading towards where he thought his car was parked. At least, he hoped he had parked it somewhere nearby. It had to be, right? Thinking or focusing on anything outside the incident with Nancy was becoming difficult. His mind felt foggy, like he was lost in a half-remembered dream, and his vision was starting to blur again. He was sure his car was somewhere in the vicinity, but finding it was becoming increasingly difficult. The more steps he took through the dimly lit parking lot, the more his sense of direction seemed to falter.

Why wasn’t his mind working? Steve was better than this, wasn’t he?

He was jolted back to reality by the sound of hurried footsteps behind him before Billy reached out, hand clamping down on his shoulder with a tight grip and pulling him backwards with the same urgency he had shown earlier. Steve stumbled, momentarily disoriented, and found himself facing the alpha once more.

It set him off.

“How many times do I have to tell you to fuck off, Hargrove? Leave me alone. I’m not in the mood to deal with you,” Steve snapped, pushing back against the alpha.

Billy refused to release him, and Steve could feel the grip against him strengthen, verging on painful as fingers dug into his flesh. The pressure did nothing to quell his anger as he released a strangled whine. He was furious, but he also had the sense to know he lacked the strength to resist for long. It was a futile effort either way. Billy was biologically stronger than him. Steve couldn't compete, and he was too tired. Why bother delaying the inevitable?

He just wanted his bed. Why was that so difficult to understand?

The instant he relented, Billy pulled him close, pressing their chests together in a way that felt almost like an embrace. The contact made his heart skip a beat, and Steve was acutely aware of as hands slid downwards to rest on the small of his back, their touch lingering dangerously close to his waistband. It should have bothered him, but being this close to the alpha, it was impossible not to notice how strongly he smelled. The scent was not what he had expected, the perfect blend of cinnamon, vanilla, and spice, a tint of pine, something homey that filled his senses with a warmth that was strangely pleasing. It seeped into his very being, and Steve closed his eyes, leaning closer and drawing in as much of that aroma as he could.

Had Billy always smelt this exquisite?

“Think I’d be a pretty shitty alpha if I left someone as pretty as you alone, smellin’ all miserable,” Billy remarked, voice carrying a smirk as his hands pressed firmly against his lower back, pulling him forward until their bodies were flush against each other. His touch was deliberate, and Steve could feel his hips being guided to rest against the alpha in a way that felt both amorous and assertive. “Stop fighting me and just calm down. Relax a bit, will you?” Billy spoke lowly, his voice soothing and laced with a hint of amusement that was lost entirely on Steve.

What was even going on?

Steve opened his eyes, trying to make sense of their close proximity. It was unfamiliar and confusing. He had never been this close to another guy, at least not outside of the occasional accidental touch during sports. This was different, more intimate, but not something he disliked. Being held by someone who was physically stronger than him was different, but Steve found he enjoyed it, though he wasn’t entirely sure what Billy was offering. Why was he being so nice? Despite his confusion, a small part of him—the omega side—was quietly preening at the attention. How could he not? Someone, an alpha no less, was showing him kindness. It felt like a gift, and he didn’t want to squander it.

The whole scenario had his mind spinning in a million different directions, and Steve wasn’t sure which way was up anymore. The one thing he knew was that he could finally breathe without pain. Being held so closely seemed to settle something within himself.

“Y-You don’t even like me,” Steve pointed out, pulling his head back far enough to stare the alpha down.

This felt surreal, as though this conversation wasn’t truly happening, not in reality. There was no way Billy Hargrove was here and offering him comfort.

Billy let out a dismissive scoff, a half-smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

“Harrington, you’re a lot of things, but bullshit ain’t one of them,” he said, his tone surprisingly gentle. Steve felt as fingers brushed across his face again. The tenderness was a stark contrast to the behaviour he was used to seeing from Billy.

Similar to before, Steve found himself paralyzed, his body almost instinctively allowing the touch to linger. The words caught him off guard, causing his breath to falter and his cheeks to flush a vivid crimson. As those fingers continued to graze his skin, a series of butterflies took flight in his stomach, sending waves of white heat through him. It was a sensation he hadn’t felt in months, a deep, comforting warmth that seemed to settle into his very core, making him feel vibrantly alive.

Steve wasn’t naïve. He knew there was no way Billy was being completely sincere, and he suspected the words were nothing more than a calculated effort to disarm him. But despite his awareness, Steve couldn’t deny the impact they had on him. Did it really matter that he didn’t fully understand Billy’s motives? No. What mattered was that, for the first time in a long while, someone was showing genuine interest in him, wanting to ensure his well-being. It might be temporary, but the sincerity of the gesture resonated deeply with his inner omega. Steve was too exhausted to fight it. Screw logic—he was too damn tired of ignoring his omega, and this? This felt wonderful.

What was the harm in giving in?

“Careful, Hargrove. Someone might actually start thinking you like me,” Steve said with a teasing smirk, leaning into the gloved hand that cradled his face.

It felt like something was slotting into place within him.

“I’d like it more if you called me Billy, princess,” Billy murmured, his voice low and surprisingly resolute. Steve felt the hand still resting on his back slide up with intent, finding his own and entwining their fingers in a gentle yet firm grip. “C’mon, this party sucks,” the alpha continued, giving their hands a playful squeeze. “We should go back to your place and relax together. Maybe cuddle in bed? I’ll make you feel better, cheer ya up.”

Those were bold words.

How exactly was Steve supposed to feel better? Was the plan simply to cuddle? Because Steve was discovering that the simple act of being held was surprisingly comforting. Still, he couldn’t shake the feeling that Billy was suggesting something more, something unspoken but implied, that his mind was moving too slowly to fully grasp. Did it really matter, though? The idea of spending time with someone who didn’t see him as bullshit was too enticing to ignore. The feelings between them didn’t need to be genuine, not when they were the only thing keeping him from his looming breakdown.

Cuddling with Billy Hargrove was infinitely more appealing than crying into his sheets alone. The desire to feel cared for, to experience any semblance of affection, was powerful. Was it so wrong to crave that feeling of being loved, even if only for a short while?

“Promise?” Steve asked, his voice barely above a whisper as he finally allowed himself to meet those piercing blue eyes directly. They were mesmerizing, a deep ocean of intensity that seemed to hold both warmth and mystery. Steve had never fully appreciated just how breathtaking they were until now.

He knew the question was weak, making him appear as vulnerable as he felt, but Steve was tired of feeling this way—dejected and unwanted. He just wanted to feel desired, even if it was only for tonight.

“Promise what?” Billy asked, his tone edged with a hint of impatience as he shook his head. His brow furrowed slightly, his annoyance evident as his façade faltered for the briefest of seconds. “That you’ll feel better? Absolutely,” he said, offering Steve a wide, cocksure grin.

Somehow, Steve found it difficult to trust the promise. How could sharing a bed possibly erase the weight of everything he had endured tonight? It didn’t make sense, but he decided not to question it further. Thinking was too much work, and he was already on his way home. While he wasn’t entirely sure what Billy meant by suggesting they could relax together, he had a few ideas. None seemed unpleasant, and the idea of hanging out with someone, especially in his bed, was oddly appealing. He could always ask Billy to leave if he was uncomfortable with anything. It was simple.

“Okay,” he said, allowing a shy smile to spread across his face as the alpha gave their intertwined hands another squeeze.

How had his evening come to this? Steve was inviting Billy Hargrove back to his house and to his bed. This certainly wasn’t how he had planned for things to go, but what was the worst that could happen?

Chapter Text

It took Steve an embarrassingly long time to remember where he had parked. His thoughts were still coming in as muffled, sluggish waves, and having Billy trailing behind him only made things worse. Steve wasn’t trying to impress the alpha—that ship had sailed after their first conversation. However, the fear of being scrutinized was eating away at his mind like a disease. It was illogical. He knew Billy couldn’t care less about him. That was fine, but that didn’t stop his mind from wanting to obsess. Steve found himself glancing over his shoulder repeatedly, inexplicably drawn to the alpha. Billy looked completely unbothered, his presence strikingly handsome under the starlight with his bare chest exposed. It was a distraction. Steve hated that he was drawn to the sight and knew he wasn’t putting on a good show, fumbling like a fool as he struggled to locate his car.

Steve Harrington, ever the idiot. Billy could now see that truth firsthand.

It felt as though a block divided his memories into two distinct categories: before the incident with Nancy and after, and Steve struggled to make sense of any of it. Trying to focus on anything only intensified the dull ache in his head. It was overwhelming, and he simply wanted to crumble onto the street, to let the tears fall freely and give in to the immense wave of emotion that had been building within him. Steve was a mess, plain and simple. The only positive was that the longer he felt the chilly, brisk air nip at his cheeks, the clearer his thoughts seemed to become. The cool breeze, sharp against his flushed skin, was finally helping him feel more grounded. It was about damn time! He still wasn’t himself, but it was an improvement. If he tried, he felt confident he could form coherent sentences, though he and Billy walked in silence.

The low, throbbing pain in his chest lingered, but it wasn’t nearly as overbearing as earlier. Steve wasn’t sure if it was because Billy was determined to hold his hand as they walked or if it was something else, but he tried not to focus on it. He wasn’t entirely sure he wouldn’t break down into tears at any moment, but it was a vast improvement from only ten minutes ago. His inner omega was entirely to blame for this inexcusable behaviour. It was lashing out because of what happened with Nancy, and that was what upset him the most. Wasn’t he better than this? More composed? Steve was practically an adult and should have better control of his emotions. Acting this weak? It was mortifying.

No wonder Nancy wanted to break up. Steve couldn’t blame her, not anymore.

Wait, did they even break up? Was that a breakup? If she never truly loved him, then they weren’t a real couple. Therefore, they were nothing to each other, right?

It was too much.

Billy seemed content with their silence, which suited Steve well enough. It granted him a few moments to reflect. He didn’t fully grasp what was unfolding between them, but Billy made him feel warm and gooey. It had been a long time since Steve had felt either of those, and this was a welcome change from spending the evening alone and crying into his bedsheets. On those nights, only solitude and nightmares served as his company.

When they finally reached his car, Billy insisted on keeping hold of his hand, even while driving. Despite his best efforts to remain indifferent, Steve couldn’t help but smile. There was something innately pleasing about the simple act of holding hands. It didn’t hurt that every time he turned to face the alpha, Billy would flash him his most bewitching smile, causing his heart to swell. Steve would always look away, gripping the steering wheel tightly as heat spread throughout his body. Nancy had never been one for hand-holding or public displays of affection. Steve had always respected that preference, but he secretly longed for more. The days of intense makeout sessions by their lockers were long gone, and now, he was lucky if she leaned against him or gave him a hug. They were making it work, but their relationship often felt like a shadow of what it once was.

How had it taken him until tonight to acknowledge that?

Holding hands with Billy was thrilling. The fact that someone, especially an alpha, wanted this simple connection was both exhilarating and reassuring. Steve refused to focus on the reasons why. It was well established that his inner omega couldn’t be trusted, and trying to decipher why he felt the way he did around Billy would be a waste of time. Whatever was happening between them was strictly a one-time thing.

Coming to this party had been a mistake. Steve hadn’t been in the mood. His head had been bothering him all day, and the last thing he wanted was to socialize, especially with his former friends. He would have turned down the invitation without a second thought if not for the looming promise of wearing a matching couple’s costume with Nancy. Risky Business, her favourite. It was meant to showcase that, yes, they were still a couple, and that had made the party seem worthwhile. Nancy had insisted that they attend, and Steve reluctantly agreed, convinced she simply wanted to let loose and unwind. In hindsight, that should have been his first warning, especially after the distance that had grown between them in the past few weeks.

It was also foolish for him to try to control her drinking. Nancy had never been a heavy drinker, and Steve just wanted her to be careful. She had drunk more than she ever had before, and neither of them had much in terms of supper. It became clear that she was determined to get shit-faced, something he knew she would regret come morning.

Alcohol was never best way to drown your sorrows. Steve would know.

Maybe he should have said something to her earlier or tried to talk to her when she was still sober. Following her to the bathroom after she had made it clear that she was upset with him? That had been his worst choice of the evening. While Steve could admit that bringing Billy back to his place was hasty and poorly thought out, at least Billy made his omega feel desired. It was something he hadn’t felt in months, especially from Nancy, and she was supposed to be his alpha.

It wasn't long before they were pulling into his driveway. Tina only lived a few blocks away, which was a relief. Given how spacey and out of it he felt, Steve wasn't sure if he even should have been driving. It was as if he wasn't entirely present, his mind not fully engaged. Still, they made it there in one piece. That was all that mattered. Billy let out an impressed whistle, and when Steve turned to face him, the alpha gave a playful wiggle of his eyebrows, his lips stretched into a cocky grin. Steve couldn't help the flutter in his stomach, recognizing a low-growing arousal building.

This was ridiculous. Billy Hargrove was the last person Steve should be feeling aroused by, yet it was difficult to ignore. Now that he was aware of it, he realized that he had been turned on earlier, too. It just hadn’t registered in his mind. He blamed it on the smell.

The moment he closed his car door, Steve was hit with the unmistakable scent of an alpha. It was all-consuming, seeping into every corner of the vehicle and clinging to the fabric of the seats, the dashboard, and even the air itself. He cursed himself for not preparing for this, for not anticipating how profoundly he would be affected. Nancy had spent plenty of time alone with him in this very car, but her scent never dominated the space like this. It was far more subtle, a gentle blend of lavender and honey mingling with the faint, familiar musk he expected of an alpha. It was comforting but never overpowering. Billy, however, was a different story. Steve wasn’t certain if the alpha was consciously amplifying his scent or if it was simply that Steve was more sensitive to it now that Billy had shown him kindness, something his omega was desperate for. At this point, he wasn’t sure if he wanted to know the answer.

There was no getting around it: Billy smelled divine. It wasn't something Steve had noticed before tonight, but now the scent seemed to consume him completely, making it impossible to ignore. It carried a natural alphan musk, unmistakable in its intensity, but beneath that was a fresh hint of pine needles, reminiscent of a forest after the rain, and blending seamlessly with the earthy aroma of burning firewood. It reminded him of the one time he had gone camping as a child with his grandparents before they passed away. He could recall the crackling campfire, the sweet smell of melting marshmallows as they made s'mores, and the way the tent flapped against the summer night air. The scent brought back those cherished memories, offering a rare moment of happiness for him. The more he focused on it, the more he could detect subtle undertones of sweet cinnamon and vanilla. It was a unique and enchanting blend, and Steve couldn't deny that he enjoyed it. It made his inner omega crave things it definitely shouldn't, but was that really so bad? When he turned his focus back to the alpha and saw the telltale grin on his face, both playful and confident, Billy became all the more irresistible.

It didn’t seem fair that Billy could look so sinfully attractive. Steve would never admit it out loud, but deep down, it was oddly comforting to think that someone as confident and poised as Billy could be stirred by someone like him. It felt great.

“Got a nice place here, Harrington,” Billy finally broke the silence as they stepped into the foyer. The warmth of the house contrasted sharply with the chilly night air they had just left behind. His voice was low, a subtle rumble that seemed to echo in the quiet space. It was only then that he abandoned their conjoined hands, his body circling as he took in the polished wood floors, the carefully arranged furniture, and the faint scent of cedar and old books that hung in the air.

Steve chose not to answer and turned to make sure the door was securely locked. One could never be too careful in Hawkins. Billy had the typical reaction Steve was accustomed to seeing whenever someone new stepped into his house for the first time—shock and awe. And who could blame him? The house was a sprawling three-story structure, each room more lavishly decorated than the last. His mother had spared no expense, ensuring they had only the finest furniture, luxurious rugs, and artfully arranged décor throughout. But despite its grandeur, the house felt devoid of life.

His parents were rarely home, often away for months at a time, leaving the house eerily quiet and empty. The family photos that adorned the walls were mere fabrications, snapshots of a family that barely existed. His father was too consumed by his business to be present, and his mother was too distrustful to stay put. She had caught his father cheating once, back when Steve was young, and since then, she had made it her mission to follow him on all his work trips. Steve suspected it wasn’t just about keeping tabs on his father, though. His mother seemed to revel in the glamorous lifestyle of jet-setting to big cities, shopping in high-end boutiques, and attending exclusive parties. The thought of returning to the mundane life in Hawkins seemed far less appealing to her.

It was easier not to dwell on it. The reality that his parents consistently chose to spend their time far away from him spoke volumes, didn’t it? Steve knew exactly where he stood on their list of priorities. While they spoke over the phone every few weeks, the conversations felt more like a chore. It was nothing close to how Nancy talked to her father when he went away on business.

“Yeah, well, no time for a tour,” Steve muttered, the weariness in his voice betraying the frustration he tried to mask. He shoved his hands deep into his jacket pockets, fingers curling into fists. “Do you mind if we just head up to my room and chill? It’s kinda the only place I can stand to be right now,” he admitted, turning to face the alpha.

Thinking about his parents only served to remind him of how inadequate he was as a person. If his parents didn’t want him, how could he expect anyone else to?

Steve could feel the dark mood from earlier creeping back, like a storm cloud hovering just at the edge of his thoughts, ready to pour. What he needed was his bed, his one private retreat and the only comfort he could trust and cling to. If Billy had a problem spending time there, Steve wouldn’t hesitate to tell him to fuck right off. Right now, the only thing he truly needed was the solace of his own space. Having someone else there? That was entirely optional.

Billy didn’t respond with words. Instead, he took a step closer, and Steve could feel as strong hands wrapped around his waist before lowering to settle on either side of his hips, pressing him backwards against the alpha. It was a far more sensual act than Steve had anticipated, feeling the heat of another at his back.

Was this appropriate? Nothing about this felt innocent or platonic, yet he could feel a shiver run down his spine, his thoughts scrambling as Billy nosed at the side of his neck, lips teasing against the sensitive skin. Whether or not this was appropriate didn’t seem to matter to his omega, who was ecstatic at the intimacy of such a touch. A wave of arousal shot through his body when those lips found his scent gland, placing the lightest trail of kisses there, each one sending a shock of pleasure through his system. There was a tiny voice in his mind, perhaps logic, screaming at him to pull away. They shouldn’t be doing this—they hardly knew each other, but Steve ignored the voice, choosing to lean his full weight against the alpha.

He had invited Billy here for comfort, right? And this felt delightful.

Billy tightened his grip, hugging him close. Steve could hear the alpha draw in a deep breath, inhaling his scent with a slow, appreciative sigh, which seemed to please his omega immensely. It was exhilarating to be held so closely, and the sensation was enough to distract him from his previous distress. The hands that had been resting on his hips began to explore his body, pressing against the subtle curves and defined muscles covered by his shirt. Steve hardly registered the sensation at first, distracted by the unexpected pleasure. It felt lovely. Whatever Billy was doing was working, right? It was only when those same hands began to move with purpose, slipping beneath the hem of his shirt and carefully pulling it out of his jeans, that Steve started to grow uneasy.

The sensation of skin against skin was settling, something he hadn’t realized he had been craving, but when fingers spread out across his belly, Steve became aware that they might be crossing some sort of line. His stomach was not an area he wanted to have touched or highlighted. He didn’t need the reminder that his body wasn’t nearly as fit as it had been before his presentation, and he instinctively shifted forward, trying to escape. It was the wrong move.

Billy released a deep menacing growl just outside his ear, sending a jolt of fear through his body, making it clear that the intention was for him to stay put. He felt the grip against him strengthen as everything in him told him to give in to the alpha, to not risk upsetting them. Steve didn’t resist and stood still like a statue, feeling as Billy kept one hand sprayed across his stomach, a pleased rumble leaving his throat as he pet the area with surprising affection. Steve was too aware as fingers skimmed beneath his waistband, teasing against the delicate area. It was disarming, at least until noticed as the other hand rubbed the curve of his hips longingly before lowering and cupping his dick through his jeans.

“Pretty omega,” Billy sighed against his ear, sounding dazed as his hand squeezed harshly against his member.

Steve was confused, his mind struggling to catch up. It was only when Billy shifted, hands moving to wrap around the meat of his ass, did his brain catch up. Billy dug his fingers against him with a firm, possessive grip, kneading and groping his area before pulling away which a huff. It was a quick, almost fleeting touch, but it caught Steve off-guard, and he couldn’t hold back the surprised yelp that escaped him.

What the hell was going on? There was no way Billy was actually attracted to him, or liked him, right? Surely Steve would have noticed.

“Lead the way, princess,” the alpha said with a mischievous snicker, extending his hand towards the stairs in an exaggeratedly charming gesture. It was as if nothing just transpired between them.

What?

Steve shook his head, trying to force his mind back into the moment. He was overrating, right? Billy was allowed to touch him. Steve had encouraged it, and the alpha had been acting so uncharacteristically sweet. It was touching. As usual, Steve was overthinking and blowing things out of proportion, unnecessarily so, and he tried his best to hide his smile as he side-stepped past the alpha and made his way up the staircase, hearing Billy follow behind him.

Why was Billy calling him princess all of a sudden? Well, tonight, at least. That was the better question. It felt so random and out of place. Was he trying to mock him? Steve couldn’t help but wonder if he was reading too much into that, too. He had been under the impression that Billy wanted to help him feel better tonight, maybe even offer some comfort and cuddle a bit. If that was the case, why was he feeling him up? Because that was what he was doing just then, right? Though being made fun of seemed like the more pressing issue. Steve wasn’t a girl, and he didn’t think being called princess could ever be taken as a compliment. Still, despite his misgivings, the term had a surprising effect on him. It made him blush and sent a flutter of warmth through his chest, his inner omega reacting in a way he hadn’t anticipated.

Maybe he liked the pet name? It was perplexing, and Steve did his best to push those thoughts away. He wasn’t in the right frame of mind to sort anything out.

His bedroom was only a short distance away, and they reached it in record time. However, as Steve opened the door, he was struck by a sudden wave of embarrassment, realizing he hadn’t bothered to clean it recently. It wasn’t particularly messy—he wasn’t a slob—but he hadn’t expected to bring anyone home with him. He regretted not taking the time to make it more presentable, just in the off-chance Nancy had a change of heart.

Clothes were strewn all over the floor, creating a colourful mess of crumpled shirts, tangled jeans, and stray socks, all centred around the unmade bed. The bed was definitely the main culprit behind the room looking unkempt with clothing thrown across. The sheets were messy, half hanging off the mattress with the corners draped carelessly over the edge. A countless mix of pillows, some patterned, some plain, and varying in textures, were piled up at the head of the bed, some looking more flattened than fluffed. The blankets were similarly dishevelled, one end flopped over the foot of the bed while the rest were bunched up around the pillows, contributing to the overall clutter. It had seen better days, but Steve loved it. It was cozy, inviting, and distinctly his. That was the only thing that mattered.

It had been weeks since anyone other than himself had ventured into this space. Nancy had always preferred to return home, which he didn’t mind. While she would never admit it, Steve knew it had to do with the memories of Barb, and he couldn’t blame her. Knowing that Barb had died outside his window and in his pool made it difficult for Steve to sleep most nights, even though he barely knew her. He couldn’t imagine what it felt like for Nancy. He knew she was struggling, but they never talked about it. The events of the Upside Down were a sensitive subject, and they simply pretended it never happened. Or at least Nancy did. Steve still had nightmares, but he knew his experience was far tamer than what others had gone through. He had no right to complain.

“Sorry. It’s kind of a mess,” Steve admitted sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck as he turned to face Billy.

His room made him feel unusually self-conscious. While he doubted Billy was the type to judge him over the state of his bedroom, Steve couldn’t shake the ridiculous, almost primal urge to present himself as an ideal mate. It was stupid, and he swallowed those urges down, reminding himself that acting like a pathetic omega wasn’t going to improve the situation or make him feel any better.

Billy, however, didn’t seem to mind. With a smirk, he stepped further into the room, glancing around at the chaos with an amused look.

“What, wasn’t planning on bringing the Ice Queen back here for a quick fuck?” he joked, tone light and playful, his tongue wagging suggestively as he turned to face Steve.

How could he answer that without sounding pitiful? Steve wasn’t entirely sure what Billy was expecting from him tonight, but admitting that Nancy found him undesirable was not a route he wanted to take. She had been distant lately, but he hoped that once the school year settled down, things between would return to normal. Deep down, though, he knew it was more than that. His presentation had changed things, making him lose much of his desirability. Although he still had a lean figure and muscles he was proud of, he was too curvy to be considered attractive. He didn’t necessarily look like an omega. He was too tall and muscular for that, but he couldn’t pass for a beta either, especially once his clothes were off.

Nancy losing interest in him made sense, but he foolishly continued to believe that she loved him, that it was possible for anyone to love him.

The rare times they were intimate were quick affairs, and Steve always remained as the penetrating partner. He had brought up experimenting, just wanting to spice things up. There was no point in hiding how disgustingly wet he got whenever they fooled around, and Steve would have loved for Nancy to play with his ass. It would be hot, right? Unfortunately, she had been quick to shoot the idea down. She claimed it was something she had no interest in, and Steve figured he could accept that. He wasn’t picky and loved all kinds of sex. There was nothing wrong with sticking his dick in someone as beautiful as Nancy Wheeler. She was the most gorgeous alpha in all of Hawkins, and she was his. Their relationship satisfied him, and Steve? He didn’t need to get fucked. It was probably overrated anyway, and Nancy smiled so sweetly at him whenever they finished. That made it easier to bite down the feeling as though he was lacking in some way, though everything made sense now.

Nancy didn’t want him. She didn’t love him and probably never had.

Realizing that he wasn’t going to get a response, Billy took another step closer and placed a finger under his chin, tilting his head up so they were facing each other. “It’s not a mess. It’s cute,” he said, his tone light and reassuring, before leaning forward to place a light peck on Steve’s cheek.

What?

Billy didn’t wait for a response. He turned around just as quickly and approached the bed, leaving Steve confused.

Why would Billy kiss him? If you could even call that a kiss. It didn’t feel like it was meant to mean anything, but Steve wasn’t sure if he could trust his judgment at this point. Knowing him, he was probably reading too much into things again. Billy was just trying to be nice, and Steve forced the kiss from his mind. It didn’t mean anything, and his attention was drawn towards the alpha as he begun to undress. Billy casually removed his leather jacket, tossing it onto the floor with a flick of his wrist before toeing off his socks and shoes, kicking them under the bed. The sight of Billy shirtless in his room and near his bed was insanely hot. Steve struggled to keep his gaze away, his cheeks flushed with warmth, a telltale sign of the arousal he had been trying to ignore since the car ride. He silently thanked his decision not to turn on the bedroom light. The last thing he needed was for Billy to see the blush spreading across his face like he was some sort of virgin.

Steve hated that he couldn’t help finding Billy attractive. It was clear he took care of himself, his physique undeniably impressive, a body honed to perfection and impossible to overlook. Steve had always avoided focusing on such details, especially when it came to male alphas. Yet, something about Billy commanded his attention, something he was reluctant to admit. Watching Billy settle onto his bed—the one place Steve felt safe—was quite a sight, and seeing the alpha casually reclining, his shirtless torso on full display, was more than he could handle. Steve bit his lip, fighting to suppress a noise as another flush of heat spread across his cheeks.

Shit.

He needed to get a grip. There was no reason for him to be getting worked up. Steve tried to rationalize it and blamed his inner omega. The old Steve Harrington had far more chill.

Not wanting to come across as aloof, Steve turned his attention back to his bed. He observed Billy with a mix of curiosity and intrigue as the alpha made himself comfortable amidst the pile of pillows clustered at the head of the bed. Billy took a moment to bury his face in the soft fabric, inhaling deeply, as satisfied smile flickering across his lips. He then peeled off his leather gloves with deliberate slowness, his movements smooth and casual, before placing them carefully on the nearby night table, arranging them with practiced ease.

With the gloves set aside, Billy adjusted his position, leaning onto his haunches and turning his gaze back to Steve. His eyes sparkled with mischief, and a devilish grin spread across his lips.

“Don’t tell me you’re coming to bed dressed like that,” he said, raising his eyebrows and gesturing towards him.

Steve immediately looked at himself. He was still fully dressed, and the realization made him question whether he was missing something. Was he supposed to be undressed? He was still trying to understand what exactly Billy expected from him tonight. Weren’t they just going to cuddle a bit? It didn’t make sense that Billy would want him to strip down, though the notion did hold appeal. There was something intrinsically pleasing about the thought of cuddling close to an alpha, with bare skin touching bare skin. Steve ached, and this? It would make him feel better, right?

“Uh, should I not?” he asked, his fingers nervously fidgeting with the strings of his jacket. He didn’t trust himself, not after everything with Nancy.

Billy inched forward on the bed, his expression shifting to one of sly amusement.

“You want to be comfortable, yeah? Trust me, you’ll feel better if you’re not wearing as much,” he explained.

That made sense.

Steve knew he liked cuddling in his bed without his clothes. He enjoyed the way the soft and fluffy fabrics felt against his oversensitive skin. After a stressful day, there was nothing better than sinking into his sheets, rolling around, and breathing in their comforting familiarity. He had cuddled with others before, but it was always fully clothed, even with Nancy. While those moments were pleasant, they lacked a certain intimacy he longed for. Being naked would offer that, wouldn’t it? Besides, Billy had a point. Now that he was paying attention, Steve realized how uncomfortably tight jeans were, the fabric squeezing him in all the wrong places. His jacket felt unusually heavy, too, almost smothering.

Maybe he should stop questioning everything and just listen to Billy. That would probably be smart.

Nodding in agreement, Steve tossed his jacket onto the floor and walked over to his bookshelf where he carefully placed his sunglasses. He could feel Billy’s gaze following his every move as he made his way back to the bed. Steve hesitated for a moment, fingers hovering over the button of his jeans. Was he crossing a boundary here? It certainly felt like it, but Billy had said he should be comfortable, and there was nothing comfortable about wearing jeans. He would much rather be without them.

Before he could second-guess himself, Steve took a deep, steadying breath. He grasped the waistband of his jeans and slowly pulled them down, stepping out of them with a quick, practiced movement. He then slipped off his socks and shoes, setting them aside beneath the bed. His fingers twitched as they ghosted over the hem of his t-shirt, with a small, lingering hesitation. He considered removing the shirt but quickly dismissed the idea. His shirt served as a shield, hiding the parts of himself he felt self-conscious about, and Steve saw little reason to draw attention to his imperfections. They had caused Nancy to fall out of love with him, and while Billy might not be attracted to him (that was still up for debate), Steve was determined to present himself in the best possible light.

“Better,” Billy hummed, his voice laced with satisfaction and interrupting his thoughts.

That was all the assurance Steve needed. Billy didn’t expect him to undress any further and wasn’t put off by what he was seeing. The alpha seemed pleased with him in only a t-shirt and boxers, and that had to count for something.

Determined not to waste any more time, Steve closed their distance and settled onto the bed. He arranged himself so that he was lying beside Billy, his head propped on the pillows directly next to the alpha. This close, it was impossible not to notice how potent his scent was. It clung to every inch of the bed, seeping into the various fabrics and pillows. His inner omega responded eagerly, tingling with excitement at the realization that his sheets would likely carry Billy’s scent far beyond tonight. For the first time that evening, Steve recognized how difficult it would be to maintain his composure. The urge to press closer, to feel their scents meld together and claim him as wholly belonging to Billy, was both intensely arousing and disturbing.

“Gotta be closer than that, sweetie,” Billy tsked playfully.

Steve didn’t have a chance to respond before he felt two hands grip his arms, pulling him in close. Every movement felt purposeful as the alpha rearranged his upper body. Steve could feel his head being guided to rest in the crook of Billy’s neck, where his scent was the strongest, the skin feeling warm against his cheek. When his nose settled next to the alpha’s scent gland, Steve felt goosebumps form across his body, and all thoughts of protesting faded away. His world seemed to narrow down to that one singular scent. Each breath he took was a soft, sensual whisper of reassurance, wrapping around him like a tight embrace. It was as if he were drifting into a blissful dream, with Billy being the only anchor, pulling him deeper into a state of utter contentment.

Breathing in Billy was like its own slice of heaven.

Steve could feel hands holding him in place, fingers threading through his hair to gently massage his scalp. The sensation was serene, making him feel immobile as he let out a pleased hum. He doubted he could move even if he tried.

The scent, now far more powerful up close, only made Steve want to sink deeper into the alpha, and into this pleasure being offered. It was still infused with pine and the cinnamon sweetness he loved, but it differed from what he had smelled in the car. It was now underscored by a strong, unmistakable musk. This made him wonder if it was a sign that Billy was pleased with him. Steve knew the alpha had been content in the car, but maybe there were varying levels of satisfaction? He wasn’t sure, but thinking was too much effort, not when he felt so boneless. The scent differed from the sweet lavender and leathery musk he recognized Nancy, but not in a bad way. There was something about it that made it incredibly easy to relax. Steve didn’t know if it was because he was tired, but he couldn’t remember ever feeling this comfortable cuddling, especially with someone he didn’t necessarily know. He’d had countless one-night stands, but none of them involved holding each other, especially not like this. Those encounters had been just sex, which was fine, but they couldn’t compare.

This? It felt right.

He nuzzled closer, his eyes fluttering shut as he placed his hand to spread across Billy and his chest, resting low against his stomach. Lifting his leg, Steve edged closer, positioning himself fully on top of the alpha. He noted the subtle shift in scent, growing darker and almost thick, but when Billy didn’t push him away, Steve took it as a sign of acceptance. The hand that had been holding him slipped beneath the fabric of his shirt, fingers tracing lightly along the curve of his spine. The touch was a welcome change, one that Steve had no intention of objecting to.

Time seemed to stand still after that, passing by in slow motion, if at all. Hours could have passed by, and he would have been none the wiser. Perhaps they did, but for once, it didn’t matter.

For the first time in a long while, Steve felt like he was exactly where he needed to be. It was a relief. His inner omega was finally calm, and he didn’t have the energy to stop the purr that slowly started to rumble from his chest. Billy stilled beneath him, likely startled, but instead of pushing him away, the arms surrounding him only tightened, holding him close. It was not the reaction Steve had been expecting, and he snuggled inward until there was no space between them.

He rarely allowed himself to purr, finding it far too primitive a display, and he hated that his body seemed to want to do it without his consent. What was the purpose, anyway? Once, he had made the mistake of purring in front of Nancy, and she had been quick to express how it made her uncomfortable, calling it an ugly sound. Feeling ashamed, he agreed and promised not to do it again. It was easy enough to manage. Steve just needed to stay on top of himself and brush down his emotions and instincts. It was working rather well. The only time he allowed himself to purr was when he was certain he was alone and wrapped in the security of his sheets. It was always his little secret, something he did strictly for himself when he was stressed. Except for tonight, apparently.

Steve was only purring because he was tired—that was it. It was too much effort to fight that part of himself, not when he felt such an incredible urge to unwind. That was the only reason he was purring for Billy Hargrove. The alpha was an ass, but luckily didn’t seem to mind the purring. If anything, his scent seemed to intensify, which was confusing. At the very least, Steve wasn’t being rejected, though he still didn’t understand what was happening between them. Everything felt purely instinctual, and giving in was remarkedly easy. It didn’t make sense, but Steve had been pushed to his limits tonight. The heartbreak was too much to handle, and he didn’t think he had the strength to stay strong.

Billy made falling feel effortless.

It felt like his brain was floating on some sort of cloud. Everything was fuzzy, like his thoughts were tangled up. Did that make sense? He didn’t know, but thinking was too painful, and Steve needed to escape the stress of his life. That was why he had invited Billy over, but he hadn’t expected cuddling to work so well. It should have alarmed him, but he was too relaxed to question anything.

His entire being was consumed by the cinnamon sweetness pouring from the alpha, the velvety vanilla spice coming through far more strongly now than before. Steve just wanted to bury himself in it, to melt into that scent. Everything felt so warm inside him, so comfortable. His pain and anguish seemed but a distant memory, and it felt like something was settling into place. It was taking all of his effort not to lick the alpha, to see if his sweat tasted as sweetly as he smelled. Steve imagined he would, and his inner omega was urging him to do more. It was with that thought that he started to notice the familiar sensation of slick seeping into his boxers and slowly beginning to slide down his thighs.

Oh.

Why was he wet? Wait, actually, as he wiggled his legs trying his best to be discreet, he realized he was soaked. How had he not noticed until now?

Nothing about tonight made sense. He shouldn’t be getting wet. When did that even happen? They were hardly being intimate, yet Steve was aware as Billy’s fingers glided up and down his spine, causing his stomach to roll around in somersaults. The touch was smooth and relaxing, easing the tension from his every pore and making his body feel like goo, as if he no longer needed to maintain control. Maybe that was why he was wet. He wasn’t sure, but it didn’t matter, did it? His body was behaving strangely, but Steve enjoyed being pressed so closely to another and refused to move. He could feel his mind relax, and it stopped being important that he was getting wet. If Billy noticed, he wasn’t bothered enough to push him away. That was all that mattered.

Moments continued to drift by in silence, with only the gentle sound of his purr filling the space between them.

Steve could feel himself sinking further into that blank headspace, his mind becoming fully immersed in the pristine scent that made his heart feel full. It wouldn’t take much for him to fall asleep like this, and it was tempting. In fact, he might have already dozed off? He didn’t know anymore, but that was the purpose of bringing someone home with him, wasn’t it? He couldn’t really remember. Nothing mattered, though, just being good for his alpha.

It caught him off-guard when Billy shifted then, pulling away a few inches. The sudden movement was upsetting, and when Steve opened his eyes, he found his vision blurred again. There were no tears, but it felt like his mind wasn’t fully committed, half asleep. Through the haze, he saw Billy gazing down at him with a half-smile slowly spreading across his lips. It was a look Steve had never seen from the alpha before, something soft and almost tender, though he could have sworn those cerulean eyes lowered to his lips. It made his heart flutter in a way he wasn’t prepared for. No one had looked at him with such affection in a long time, and the realization made him uncomfortable.

Why was Billy looking at him like that? It didn’t make sense. They weren’t anything to each other.

Steve shook his head, turning away as he rubbed his cheek against a nearby pillow, enjoying the silky textures against his skin. He didn’t want to have to think and wanted to fall back into the softness of vanilla, pine, and spice. Why was Billy making him think? Closing his eyes, he pushed the alpha back into the sheets and leaned forward to reclaim his previous position, wanting to continue his scenting. Just as he was about to settle when Billy chuckled, moving out of reach. It irked Steve. Why was his alpha denying him? He just wanted to cuddle and be mindless again. Wasn’t it obvious?

Instead of the cocky or smug response Steve had expected, Billy surprised him by lowering his lips onto his own. It took him far too long to register that the alpha was kissing him.

What?

The kiss was light and gentle, no more than a meeting of lips, but it was enough to ignite all of his nerve endings, though his mind felt like it was walking through mud, trying to keep up.

“B-Billy,” Steve stuttered as he pulled away, opening his eyes to stare at the alpha.

This didn’t make sense, did it? Why would anyone want to kiss him?

Billy shushed him, his smile turning cocky and assured as he leaned in for another kiss. This time, Steve didn’t have it in him to question it.

“C’mon, sweetie. You want this. Want me,” Billy silenced him, pressing kisses along his face before inevitably settling on his lips. The hand that had been tracing his back moved up to course through his hair, digging against his scalp.

Did he?

Steve wasn’t sure what he wanted anymore. Everything felt like too much. The only thing he knew for sure was that this felt wonderful. Having an alpha against him, placing those sweet kisses on his lips and seeking entrance inside, pleased his inner omega and made him feel desired. After everything that happened with Nancy, it was exhilarating, and something told him that Billy would be a fantastic kisser. Steve imagined it would be easy to lose himself in the sensation of soft lips and gentle touches. While he had never kissed a boy before, there was something primal and raw about it that appealed to him.

Not wanting to think, Steve parted his lips, allowing Billy to slip his tongue inside as he began to slowly respond to the alpha.

Kissing was easy, fun, and something Steve knew he excelled at. It was the one thing he couldn't mess up. As soon as he opened up, Billy let out a pleased groan.

Turns out, Billy was an excellent kisser. It wasn’t necessarily surprising, considering Steve had heard rumours that the alpha knew exactly what he was doing in bed. Steve could barely keep up with the relentless pace as Billy pressed him against the pillows, climbing on top of him while licking deeply into his mouth. It felt like the alpha was trying to consume him, and it was everything Steve didn’t know he needed. He moaned, feeling slick freely leak from him onto the bedsheets as he shifted his legs. A tiny part of him seemed to settle, reassured that there was an alpha who wanted to care for him so intimately.

Why hadn’t they started kissing earlier? They should have. It felt amazing and had the added bonus of being insanely hot.

Steve lowered his arms to trace across Billy’s back, fingers trailing over the defined ridges of muscle, pressing into every solid plane he could find. It was so different from the soft curves he was used to with girls, who lacked the same muscle definition and width, but he quickly realized this was something he didn’t mind at all. Billy was toned, his body a masterpiece of strength and power, every inch of it sculpted and firm, and Steve was eager to explore each detail. The heat was rising between them, sweat gathering between their bodies, making their skin slick where they pressed together.

He was aware as Billy lowered a hand to his waist, fingers tracing teasingly along his inner thigh, and his breath hitched, his skin prickling with goosebumps. The touch was light, but it left a trail of fire in its wake, stoking the blaze already burning inside him. Steve also became intensely aware of how overheated he was, like there was a furnace roaring inside him, fueled by the half-naked body pressing down a against his own. Steve tried to match the intensity in their kiss, his hands travelling upward and latching onto the blonde curls, fingers digging in harshly.

Billy pulled away at the touch, breathing heavily as he let out a low hum, nosing against him.

“So, so good, sweetheart,” he whispered, sounding breathless.

Those words were precisely what Steve needed to hear. It was lovely to know that he wasn’t messing things up or completely out of his depth, though he was disappointed that they were no longer kissing. Why weren’t they? The kiss had been electrifying, a connection he wasn’t ready to let go of. Wanting to rectify that, Steve braced himself on his arms and, with a surge of determination, pushed Billy back against the pillows. It surprised him that the alpha allowed the act, a cheeky smile coating his lips, almost like he saw the gesture as a challenge. It was a curious, something Steve would have been keen to explore if his mind wasn’t determined to resume their kiss.

Ignoring the spark in Billy’s lustful gaze, Steve crawled on top of the alpha, his movements slow yet focused. He could feel the heat radiating from their bodies, mingling in the space between them as he leaned down, closing the distance between their mouths once more.

The moment their lips met again, it was like stepping into paradise. The kiss was everything—soft yet firm, a perfect blend of tenderness and hunger that sent shivers down his spine. Steve lost himself in it, the world outside his bed fading into nothingness.

It was pure bliss.

Steve felt Billy reach forward, hands settling firmly on his hips with a grip that grounded him, serving as the perfect anchor. The touch sent a ripple of comfort through Steve, giving him a sense of security he hadn’t realized he craved. It was like the alpha could read his mind, knowing exactly what his omega needed. Steve loved it.

Leaning closer, his hands instinctively wrapped around Billy’s neck, fingers ghosting along the strong curve before gliding across his broad shoulders. He relished the feel of the taut muscles beneath his fingertips, savouring the warmth that spread across over-sensitized skin. Billy shifted beneath him, his hands sliding down to the small of his back as fingers carefully teased against the skin beneath his waistband. Then, with a slow, deliberate movement, Billy pushed Steve’s lower body forward. The movement caused his dick to slide against the alpha’s own, and Steve felt his breath catch in his throat, a surge of pleasure rippling through his body. When Billy repeated the action, Steve didn’t hold back the moan and could feel fingers digging into his hips, guiding them forward.

“Oh, fuck,” he sighed, breaking away from their kiss.

It was only when he could feel Billy’s hardness beneath him that seemed to bring Steve back into the moment.

What the hell were they doing?

There was no mistaking the erection poking through his flimsy boxers, something the alpha would be more than aware of. Steve was ridiculously hard, something he hadn’t noticed until that moment. How had he not noticed himself getting so turned on? He hardly felt in control of himself, feeling a sense of shame wash over him. Steve abandoned his position and retreated to the pillows, feeling overwhelmed and needing to distance himself from Billy. As he moved, the sensation of stickiness on his thighs became all too apparent. His boxers, damp and uncomfortable, clung to him like a second skin.

Great. He must have leaked onto Billy, too. The thought made him cringe.

Everything was beginning to feel like too much again, his emotions crashing down on him. This wasn’t right, was it? They shouldn’t be doing this.

Billy didn’t let him go far, twisting onto his side with a fluid motion and closing the distance between them. Steve could feel as fingers grazed against his chin, the alpha staring down at him as if in awe. It was as if Steve was truly worthy of being looked at. It bothered him, but the moment he turned to lower his head, wanting to look away, those fingers latched securely onto his chin, forcing him back to make eye contact.

It almost hurt.

“No need to be shy, princess,” Billy teased, his voice a mix of being playful yet authoritative. It was a contrast to before, but Steve didn’t have a chance to question it before the alpha brought a hand to his own, grasping it and dragging it down to his own jean-clad erection.

The touch made Steve want to recoil away, something Billy didn’t allow as he held his hand in place with a possessive grip that bordered on painful.

Steve was almost positive that they were crossing some sort of line. This seemed to go beyond cuddling, yet he couldn’t pretend he didn’t get a thrill, knowing that he had caused this reaction. While he might be a bullshit omega, he could make an alpha as dominating as Billy Hargrove hard in his jeans. That had to count for something, right? There was no getting around that Billy had a big dick. It was far larger than Steve had ever imagined. Feeling it against him, firm and hard, made him curious, and when Billy let go of his hand, Steve kept it in place, palming it against the erection and trying to make out its shape and size.

It felt surprisingly great against him.

“You want this, and so do I. Just relax. Be a good boy, and let me do all the work. I’ll make ya feel better, yeah?” Billy continued, his voice sounding smooth yet insistent at the same time.

Steve felt his heart race at the words.

Oh.

He definitely wanted to be good.

There was no denying that Steve Harrington was a disappointment, a constant fuck-up. That didn’t mean he didn’t try. He could be good for Billy, he was sure. It would be terribly easy to give in to the alpha and finally embrace his instincts. Suppressing them was exhausting, and Steve didn’t think he had the mental willpower anymore. He knew he should say no. He hardly knew Billy, and their relationship was anything but friendly. This didn’t feel like something he should share with a stranger, with someone he considered to be an asshole. Yet, there was a magnetic pull drawing him towards the alpha. It was as if his inner omega was awakening and had desires that refused to be ignored.

Would it be so bad just to give in? Billy wouldn’t lead him astray, and Steve needed to feel something. He didn’t know what exactly, but he knew that Billy would take care of him. Why overanalyze it? Billy wanted to make him feel better, and Steve wanted to please somebody. It didn’t have to be any deeper than that.

“I just,” Steve started, pulling away and turning onto his back. The cool, soft texture of a nearby pillow met his cheek as he rubbed it gently, seeking comfort in its familiarity. “I’ve never been with a guy before,” he admitted, staring off at the ceiling.

It was embarrassing. For all the sex Steve Harrington had in his life, it had strictly been with beta females. Well, and Nancy, who was an alpha, but she was unpresented when they started dating. Before tonight, he had never seriously considered doing something with a guy. Sure, he had had some wet dreams involving men and maybe the odd session in the shower with his right hand. His heat, too, had been an eye-opening experience, but they had only ever been fantasies, not something he planned on making a reality. Pretending that part of himself didn’t exist just made life easier. Steve liked girls, liked their curvaceous bodies, and liked pussy. That was enough.

Billy chuckled, a dangerous glint dancing in his eyes as he leaned closer. His hand, calloused and warm, settled on Steve’s lower stomach. The touch was jarring, causing Steve to flinch as Billy slid his hand beneath his shirt, the fabric bunching and creeping up his torso, exposing more of his skin than he was comfortable with. Billy only stopped when the fabric met the swell of his chest, though his hand remained in place. Steve opened his mouth to protest, his mind racing with insecurity. He was taken aback when, instead of mockery, he felt soft lips brushing against his exposed belly. The alpha laid a trail of kisses from his belly button down past the waistband of his boxers, causing goosebumps to form in their wake.

“You’re an omega, sweetie. You’re kinda made to take dick,” Billy mumbled before bending forward to whisper against his ear. “Especially from an alpha.”

Hearing those words and feeling lips tickling against his ear caused Steve to shudder, especially when Billy kissed his scent gland lightly, his lips lingering before drawing back. The sensation did nothing to quell his burning arousal, though he couldn’t say that he agreed with the words. Plenty of male omegas chose female alphas, even if it wasn’t nearly as common. That didn’t matter, though. Steve had loved Nancy. He was fulfilled with what they had, and she was the perfect alpha for him. He didn’t need to be fucked or knotted, even if it was the one thing he craved during his heat. That only lasted a few days every couple of months and was inconsequential. Besides, eventually, Nancy would spend his heats with him, and they would be more bearable then, especially when she knotted him. He and Nancy were in love, and he had even convinced himself that they were soulmates—a notion that seemed laughable now as he looked back on it.

Steve Harrington, always the fool.

Not getting the response he wanted, Billy sighed, his frustration apparent, before continuing with his exploration. His hand slid lower, fingertips brushing against the thin fabric of Steve’s boxers. The alpha moved with practiced ease, letting his fingers dip beneath the material, lightly grazing sparse hairs and teasing even lower. Steve knew he should say something, that this was invasive and not what he agreed to, yet arousal overpowered his growing sense of discomfort. He closed his eyes, allowing himself to soak in the sensations.

“Bet it’s been a while since Wheeler cared for you properly, sweet thing. Lemme give you a hand job. It’ll take the edge off and be easy. Nice and simple," Billy offered as he pulled back.

Was Billy Hargrove seriously offering him a hand job? What was even happening?

Steve opened his eyes, not bothering to hide his confusion. The alpha was staring back at him, blue eyes holding him captive and wide with arousal. It was a sincere look that only made Steve want to retreat back into himself. He wasn’t keen to admit that the only action he had gotten recently had been from his own hand. It was shameful, but he didn’t want to acknowledge that he and Nancy were going through a rough patch, even if it was obvious. If he admitted any of that, it would mean acknowledging that Nancy, an alpha, thought there was something wrong with him. He didn’t want Billy to know how flawed he was, not when he was being offered a hand job. Now that the idea was in the head, it was very much something he wanted. Hand jobs were quick, easy, and very impersonal. It didn’t need to mean anything.

Who was he to say no to such an offer?

Not trusting himself with words, Steve turned to face Billy, nodding.

This was going to be fun. Getting an orgasm out of tonight was not something he had been anticipating, but what teenager ever said no to free, uncomplicated sex? There was no need to overthink it.

Billy lowered his head, his gaze unwavering as he looked down upon Steve. The same piercing look from earlier was present, one that made Steve feel both overwhelmed and exposed. It was unsettling, leaving him feeling as though he were standing on the brink of something he wasn’t quite ready to face. Instead of saying anything further, the alpha let out a soft vibrating sound, almost like a growl, and placed his lips onto his own. It was a comfort Steve didn’t knew he even needed, and he felt more aware of himself this time, the fog in his mind finally lifting as he responded to the kiss.

Kissing Billy was becoming his new favourite pass time, something Steve didn’t think he would ever get tired of.

Feeling a surge of confidence, Steve drew his hands across Billy’s toned back, fingers spreading and pressing against muscles before lowering until they settled onto the meat of his ass. Billy had a surprisingly thick ass. The skin-tight jeans he made a habit of wearing always highlighted this, but feeling it in person? It was fantastic, even through the denim, and the alpha let out a groan, pressing back into his hands. It made Steve wish that he was touching skin now, not clothing. He was tempted to voice this and see if the alpha would strip down when a moan escaped him. Billy surprised him by slipping his hand beneath his boxers, wrapping around his erection, and stroking against it.

"Shit," Steve gasped, closing his eyes as he broke away, doing his best not to lose control of himself.

When was the last time Nancy touched him like this? Had it really been so long? He let out another embarrassing noise the moment Billy squeezed fingers against the head of his dick, teasing the sensitive flesh.

“Guess I know why everyone calls you King Steve. Got a dick worthy of the praise, princess,” Billy purred, sounding far too pleased as his hand continued to stroke against him.

The comment took Steve off guard, and he opened his eyes, seeing the alpha smile down at him with a seductive curve of his lips that spoke volumes. Why would he say that? It didn’t make sense, but Steve didn’t have a chance to focus as he felt as Billy pulled his dick out from his boxers, bright eyes trailing downwards and taking in the sight.

It was mortifying.

Billy hummed, his appreciation clear, and continued with deliberate movements, pulling the boxers down past his knees before maneuvering his legs around the bed, carefully removing the last of the fabric and casting it aside.

Steve could feel the cool air brushing against his now bare skin, making him feel entirely too exposed. He shifted, wanting to hide himself, but the motion only had the alpha pressing down against him, halting the movements. Billy didn’t hide the way his eyes remained fixed on his dick, pupils dilated with arousal before drifting upwards, meeting his own in a look of unmistakable hunger. It was intense, making him incredibly vulnerable, and Steve didn’t know how to handle the emotions coursing through him.

Why was Billy so turned on by him? There was nothing attractive about his body.

Steve was all too aware of how disgustingly wet he was, slick sticking to his inner thighs and staining his sheets, his erection standing up straight. There was no hiding his arousal, something that made him feel uneasy under such a gaze. His eyes were locked on blue ones, following as they descended once more. Billy’s free hand reached out, fingers tracing along his hips with a feather-light caress, taking in their shapely form. It made Steve self-conscious, and his discomfort continued to grow. He hated to draw attention to his more omega curves, yet it seemed to be something that fascinated this alpha. It would never make sense to him. Billy didn’t linger, perhaps sensing his distress, and turned his focus back to the hand wrapped around his dick as it started to rub against him with steady movements, causing the pleasure to skyrocket throughout his body.

Holy shit.

There was no way Steve was going to last long. Not tonight, at least.

He could feel his orgasm already building form the kisses and limited foreplay alone, his body hypersensitive to every touch. It stunned him when Billy lowered his free hand beneath him, pulling a noise from his throat as his fingers teased against his hole, soaking themselves in slick. It wasn’t something Steve had been expecting. He felt as if he couldn’t breathe, every fibre of his being suddenly coming alive. When those same fingers used his slick to coat his dick, their own makeshift lube, he had to bite down on his lip to stop another humiliating noise from escaping.

There was no reason for that to be such a turn on.

The only advantage to being an omega was that he no longer needed to buy lube for situations like this. He shouldn’t have been so surprised, but having someone touch him, especially his slick, without being disgusted was highly arousing. Steve wasn’t going to complain, not when he could feel a finger lingering against his entrance, casually brushing against it in a motion that felt far too purposeful to be innocent.

Needing to distract himself, Steve forced his gaze back to his alpha. There was nothing but lust radiating from Billy. His scent was thick with the musk of arousal, seeping into every corner of the bedroom as sweat poured down his forehead, his eyes darkened with raw desire. The sight did nothing to calm Steve. Instead, it only ignited the fire deep within him.

Billy Hargrove was fucking hot. There was no denying it, not anymore.

Feeling his cheeks burn, Steve shook his head, sinking back against the pillows as his mind grew increasingly muddled. The words Billy had spoken echoed faintly in his ears, but they were hard to grasp, slipping away like sand through his fingers. Billy had said something, right? It felt like ages ago, and when Steve glanced up at the ceiling, it seemed to sway slightly. It felt like he was beginning to lose it a little bit, something that should frighten him more than it did. Forcing himself to reflect on the words, Steve was fairly certain people weren’t talking about his dick size when they called him King Steve. No, it was his larger-than-life persona, the one Tommy H. had helped craft, along with his reputation for sleeping around and throwing wild parties that had earned him the title.

Steve had been a royal asshole—everyone knew it, and it wasn’t a part of his life that he was proud of. He was far happier with himself since he ditched Tommy H., Carol, and all the rest. Gone were the days of being cruel for the sake of it, and it felt strangely liberating to no longer feel the pressure to conform to their ideals. Steve was also well aware that he was above average in the dick size department. Back in the day, it was something he had taken pride in, another notch on the King Steve belt. But now, as an omega, it made him stand out, but not in a positive way. The beta male doctor he had seen after his presentation had made that clear with a disapproving look, reminding him that male omegas typically fell on the smaller side of things. It was one of the reasons Steve had never assumed he would be one, and it contributed to his numerous insecurities. He was an omega with a big dick—who wanted that? No one.

He didn’t know how he felt about having an alpha that he begrudgingly found attractive draw attention to something he was ashamed about. It was conflicting, and Steve didn’t know anymore. Thinking was hard.

Noticing that his mind was elsewhere, Billy let out an annoyed sigh. Without another word, he leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss against Steve’s cheek, nosing against the area for a brief moment. It was enough to bring him back to the moment, and Steve smiled at the alpha, feeling a warmth spread through his chest.

Alpha liked him, right?

“Stop thinking, yeah? Just trust me. Meant it as a compliment, anyway. From what I hear, you’re pretty good with it. I love being with an omega who knows what it’s like to fuck. Your dick is more than just an accessory, sweetheart, and so, so, hot,” Billy soothed, smiling sweetly as he pulled back to stare down at him, his hand continuing to run up and down along his length, though at a far more relaxed pace.

What?

Why was Billy even talking at this point?

Talking seemed like it would be too much. Steve just wanted to get lost in the sensation of a hand working against him, fingers squeezing against his head ever-so-slightly whenever his orgasm started to build too quick. Steve spread his legs, hoping Billy would take the hint and do more, but instead, he was met with a playful hum from the alpha. The sound grated on him, and his irritation flared. He knew Billy was waiting for him to say something, but the last thing Steve wanted was to talk. His mind was too cloudy, too caught up in the sensations coursing through him. He would likely trip over his words and humiliate himself. Yet, Billy was being uncharacteristically sweet. It would be rude not to answer, and in the end, Steve just wanted to be good for someone.

“Y-You like my dick?” he asked, lifting himself onto his elbows to stare back at the alpha.

Was that what Billy had said? He didn’t quite know.

While Steve had received countless compliments on his dick over the years, this felt different. He took pride in keeping himself well-groomed down there—it was basic hygiene, though he knew some guys didn’t share that belief. Still, he found it an odd comment to make, especially coming from an alpha. They were supposed to do the fucking, right? So why would they care about dick? It made him think that Billy was genuinely attracted to him, that maybe this wasn’t just a pity fuck. The idea seemed absurd, but why else would Billy have said that? Steve had never heard of Billy sleeping with other male omegas, though he knew there had been offers. Justin Gould, an omega in his year, had been trying to catch Billy’s eye all year. Justin was everything an omega was supposed to be: sweet, curvy, and petite. He was the opposite of Steve, though he supposed none of that really mattered.

Steve was too tired to focus on conversation and could feel as fingers started to run across his slit, free hand sliding and cupping his balls, giving him a hefty squeeze. There was no way he could stop the noise that left his mouth, and he quickly bit his lip, trying to silence it.

Billy chuckled, a self-satisfied smirk playing at the corners of his lips as he looked down at him.

“Of course I do,” Billy said, shaking his head in disbelief as cerulean eyes narrowed. “S’hot and you’re fucking perfect. Doubt there is any part of you I wouldn’t consider a complete turn on,” he praised before abandoning the hold he had on his balls and using that hand to draw Steve’s knees forward and up onto his chest.

The change in position confused him, but before Steve could say anything, Billy silenced the question with his lips. The kiss was a heady blend of urgency and intimacy, drawing Steve deeper into the moment. He found himself succumbing to the intense sensations, the heat of Billy’s body pressed against his own, the intoxicating mix of their shared arousal, and the rich, musky scent that seemed to fill the air around them. It was all-consuming, making it all too easy to lose himself.

Billy picked up his pace, jerking his dick as fingers toyed against him, squeezing and releasing with practiced ease. It was utter perfection. There was no doubt in his mind that the alpha knew what he was doing, and Steve found himself sinking into his pillows, struggling to keep his mind focused enough to respond. He was barely aware as the hand on his knees lowered until he could feel fingers teasing against his entrance, lightly brushing against the sensitive area. It was different than before but no less amazing, and he couldn’t hold back the whine that escaped him. Steve was almost certain this wasn’t part of a simple hand job, but it felt incredible. He couldn’t remember the last time he was this thoroughly soaked, either. Certainly never with Nancy. It might have been his heat?

When Steve attempted to pull back from their kiss, needing to ground himself, Billy responded with a playful, teasing bite on his lower lip. The touch was light but sent a shockwave of pleasure through him, causing his dick to twitch. The alpha let out a snicker, giving Steve’s lower lip another gentle bite before reluctantly breaking away. Instead of pulling back as Steve had expected, Billy stayed close, their lips only inches apart.

“So, so, wet for me, princess,” Billy mumbled, words tickling outside his ear, distracting him, before slipping a finger into his entrance. “So wet for your alpha.”

It was embarrassing how easily the finger slid into him. There was no resistance, though the action took Steve completely by surprise. He had expected Billy to tease him, not finger him. It would have bothered him more if it didn’t feel exactly like what he needed in that moment. Steve had never had anything beyond his own fingers inside of himself, and that had only happened during his heat. This, though? It felt like fucking perfection.

“Shit, Billy,” Steve sighed, reaching for the same pillow from before to press against his face. His fingers dug into the cushion, desperately seeking any semblance of stability as he felt the finger inch deeper into him. His toes curled into the bedsheets when they pressed against his prostate, and Steve couldn’t help but arch into the touch, a cry escaping him.

That felt fucking sinful.

“God. Feels fucking amazing,” he breathed out.

Billy laughed as he leaned forward, teeth nipping against his scent gland.

“Knew you’d like that,” he said, licking a line down his neck. “Now, be a good boy for me and imagine my dick fucking you. Think you can do that, sweetie? Cum thinking about being stuffed full of my big, hard, alpha dick?” he asked, not giving Steve a chance to respond as he reached for his hand, dragging it downwards until it rested on his prominent erection once again.

Jesus.

It was like Billy had awakened something inside of Steve, this part of him that he had buried deep within himself. He couldn’t ever recall wanting to be fucked so thoroughly before. Every part of him was yearning to have the alpha inside him, filling him to the brim until he couldn’t handle it—it wasn’t something he could brush aside. He didn’t want to, not anymore.

Steve moved his hand on his own accord, wrapping around the shaft through the denim, fingers shifting around to make sense of the shape and form with more clarity this time. His excitement built once he realized that the erection barely fit into his hand, his inner omega releasing a low purr at the realization.

Wow. Billy was impressively large. Moreso than he had thought when he was touching him earlier.

While Steve had never been in this position with another guy before, getting off was not going to be a problem. It had been a few days since he last masturbated, and it was clear that his hormones were out of wack tonight. There was no ignoring the wet spot he could feel, staining the dark jeans with pre-cum, and it thrilled him, knowing that Billy was just as turned on and into this as he was. It made him feel a little less alone, and there was something undeniably appealing about feeling an erection beneath his fingers, knowing it was all for him.

Realizing that Billy was waiting for a response and not trusting himself to find the right words, Steve continued to purr, looking upwards to face him with wide eyes.

The alpha let out a small noise, almost a whine.

“That’s it, pretty boy,” Billy cooed, eyes locked onto Steve with a softness he wasn’t entirely used to seeing. It wasn’t the reaction Steve had been expecting.

The moment only lasted a second, leaving him disappointed when Billy abandoned the hold on his dick, hands instead drifting upwards, fingers moving with a slow and purposeful touch as they played with the collar of his shirt. Before Steve could question the act, Billy pulled the fabric downwards, causing the collar to dig his neck, stopping his purr. It hurt, but not in a bad way, especially when the alpha proceeded to press his mouth against the exposed skin of his collarbone, tongue tracing a slow, deliberate path over the tender flesh as his lips alternated between licking and sucking.

“Billy,” Steve cried as Billy brought a hand back, working against his dick yet again as if he never stopped.

It took all of his effort not to cum.

When Billy started moving his finger inside of him, Steve couldn’t focus on anything else as his breath faltered.

Everything felt like too much and too little at the same time.

The pressure of a single finger inside of him was intense, yet it barely scratched the surface of what he craved. Steve needed more, even as he could feel the gentle rhythm pushing him to the edge. It didn’t take Billy long to find that one spot inside of him, the one that made his vision blur and his breathing hitch. Every time the finger collided with his prostate, it sent electric shocks of pleasure radiating through him, making his entire body react. His toes remained permanently clenched into the bedsheets, curling with every pulsating wave of sensation. The feeling was overwhelming, stealing his breath away, leaving him gasping for air even as his mind was lost in the haze of raw, animalistic pleasure.

This felt infinitely better than his heat, when Steve had tried to do this himself.

He lifted his hips, searching for more as he thrust them back against the finger, trying to take as much of it in as possible and needing it to fill him completely. His mind felt like it was turning to mush as he searched for something wholly primal that he desperately needed. Billy let out a snort and continued to work against him, hand running up and down his shaft as fingers expertly pressed against the precum leaking from his slit. It felt like torture but in the best way. When Steve could feel teeth lightly biting against his collarbone, he couldn’t hold back.

“Fuck,” he gasped, his body sinking deeper into his bedsheets.

Steve felt he could hardly breathe, each gasp coming ragged and shallow, yet his reaction seemed only to encourage his alpha. Without warning, Billy shifted, exhaling heavily before angling his mouth to the area of his neck, directly beneath his scent gland. Steve swore he was seeing stars, his vision blurring as the alpha repeated a maddening cycle of licking, sucking, and biting, each touch sending jolts of pleasure through his body. He could feel the pressure of teeth against him, knowing that Billy was leaving a mark, but he was too dazed to care. It was as if Billy was staking a claim, marking him as his own, something that resonated deeply with his inner omega, who seemed to melt into every nip and caress.

There was no ignoring how turned on he was or how close he was to an orgasm. It felt like he was barely able to move, his hands resting limply at his sides, yet sweat poured down his face and body in rivulets, and his heartbeat pounded erratically. His thoughts were jumbled, and he couldn’t focus on anything outside of the pleasure seeping through every part of his body.

It was too much.

Billy bit down against his neck, the sharp sting timed perfectly as he added another finger inside of him, sliding it along the other to stroke his prostate with relentless precision.

“Fuck, Billy,” he moaned as he shifted restlessly, feeling completely undone.

Steve arched desperately into the next thrust, feeling like he was no longer in control of himself. His fingers clawed into the bedsheets, gripping them as if to ground himself as an intense wave of pleasure surged through him, and he came abruptly, his release splattering messily across his stomach.

Shit.

That happened faster than expected.

Steve should have felt ashamed about cumming so quickly, especially in front of another guy, but at that moment, he couldn’t bring himself to care. Instead of speaking, he closed his eyes and reached for his favourite pillow, the one he had been cuddling with all evening. He pressed the soft fabric against his face, inhaling the comforting scent of his own space. Though he couldn’t literally smell himself, the familiar scent of home was grounding, a reminder of his own presence in the midst of the chaos of emotions surging through him.

Feeling the softness of the pillow against his skin helped centre him, his mind continuing in the now familiar haze. Steve felt like he wasn’t entirely present. It was strange, feeling so disoriented after what was supposed to be a simple hand job and some fingering, and he tried not to dwell on why he had come so hard. The only thing he wanted in that that moment was to lose himself in the wonderous scent pouring off Billy. It made him crave the alpha on a deep, instinctive level, and he wanted to saturate himself in that scent.

How ridiculous.

Steve needed to get laid more. That was the one takeaway he was getting from tonight.

The next few moments stretched out, time passing by in some kind of a trance. Steve couldn’t recall the last time he felt so calm, so boneless and relaxed. It was as though his mind had floated up onto a cloud, and he was savouring every second of it.

He wanted to stay like this forever.

The moment was ruined when he felt Billy sliding his fingers out of him, leaving him feeling achingly empty. Steve heard an involuntary whine slip from his lips and bit down hard on his pillow in a vain attempt to muffle the sound. There was something deeply satisfying about being filled by his alpha, even if it was just fingers, and he wasn’t eager to return to reality just yet. He could hear Billy chuckling, evidently finding his reaction pathetic, which only made Steve feel worse. His inner omega was a nuisance. He hated it, and he further buried his face against the pillow, wanting to hide. While he could easily ask Billy to keep his fingers inside, Steve wasn’t going to. The alpha would only laugh him off, and that wasn’t something Steve felt he could handle, especially when his emotions felt like they were teetering on the edge of a seesaw.

Distracted by the haze of afterglow, Steve barely noticed as Billy reached to the side of the bed, retrieving the discarded boxers. The action confused him until the alpha returned to his side, using the fabric to gently wipe the release from his stomach.

“W-What are you doing?” Steve’s voice came out scratchy and hoarse, his breath uneven as he propped himself up on his elbows so they were on the same level.

Though he theoretically understood what Billy was doing, the act was something Steve had never experienced before. It felt surprisingly intimate—the clean-up after sex. It was always a task Steve had dealt with alone, and while it might have been a bit unpleasant for tonight, he was content to ignore the mess until morning. He was going to need a shower and to change his sheets either way and right now, he just wanted to slip back into his post-orgasmic haze and maybe fall asleep. This was his happy place, and he didn’t want to have to think.

Why was Billy being so nice? It didn’t make sense.

“What’s it look like?” Billy said, grinning playfully as he continued to use the boxers to clean up the cum, taking the time to run the material over Steve’s dick, balls, and thighs as well. That was considerate, given how wet he was. It couldn’t have been a pleasant task.

Steve could feel his heart swell with affection.

The thought of having an alpha willing to care of him in such a way was unexpected but pleasant. Steve smiled as he sank back into the plush pillows, his mind buzzing. Instead of resisting, he allowed himself to sink into the warmth, giving in to what his omega needed. He hardly registered the soft thud of Billy tossing the soiled boxers elsewhere. What he did feel, however, was the solid presence as the alpha settled beside him amidst the tangle of pillows. Before Billy could get comfortable, Steve instinctively wrapped his arms around the alpha, his head resting on the broad expanse of his muscular chest.

The position was suggestive, given they didn’t know each other, but that didn’t seem to matter. Steve allowed himself to breathe in the same wintry campfire scent that had consumed him earlier. It was darker and muskier now, carrying a richer undertone of spice that spoke of lingering arousal. Steve didn’t question it, not wanting to think as he let his mind sink into the something that was strictly Billy.

Billy wrapped his arm around him, pulling him close until their bodies were pressed together. Encouraged by the heat between their bodies and closeness, Steve draped his leg over the other, edging further into his space. He let his hand rest on Billy’s shoulder, wanting the alpha as close as possible. Billy didn’t seem to mind, sliding his arm under his shirt and letting his fingers trace soothing patterns across his back, similar to before. The touch was familiar and comforting, and Steve was surprised when Billy used his free hand to run fingers through his damp, tangled hair. The action felt intensely sensual, and Steve let out a pleased hum, feeling his body go lax. He could feel as Billy used his hand to move his head downwards, angling it so Steve could breathe in his scent where it was strongest on his neck, nose pressed directly next to his scent gland.

This moment felt perfect.

As illogical as it was, Steve felt he could get lost breathing in Billy, taking in his smoke pine needles, focusing in on the vanilla this time. He didn’t understand how he had never noticed it until tonight. Despite his efforts to avoid the alpha, his scent was captivating, making his knees weak. The better question was how he would return to normal tomorrow and pretend that none of this had happened. Steve didn’t know if he could, not entirely, but he pushed the thought aside—it was a worry for another time. It was rare for him to feel so completely relaxed. His body was finally at ease, and it would be far too easy to sleep like this, in the arms of someone bigger and stronger than him, someone who could protect him. It was something he hadn’t even realized he craved until now. With Billy around, Steve no longer had to be the strong one.

“Smell so, so good,” Steve slurred, drawing another deep breath of that sweet scent. He gently kissed the gland and let his nose rest there, savouring the heat and intimacy of the moment.

It was the least he could do.

Billy had been so attentive and kind, and Steve felt a deep appreciation welling up inside him. He wanted to express his gratitude, but it didn’t surprise him when the alpha offered no immediate response. Steve wasn’t expecting one, so he allowed himself to close his eyes, falling deeper into the warmth surrounding him. His mind quieted to nothingness, lulled by the steady rise and fall of Billy’s chest.

Sleep soon beckoned him, something he eagerly embraced.

Chapter Text

Many moments slipped away in the strange fog, but it was impossible to notice. When Billy eventually nudged against him, Steve was only half-aware of the sensation, drifting in and out of his dreamlike state. He didn’t stir, reluctant to let go of the comfort.

“Sweetheart, you want to take off your shirt, don’t you? You’d be more comfortable,” Billy suggested, his fingers gently threading through Steve’s hair one last time before moving down to his back as he started to draw the aged fabric upwards.

The words sounded like they were coming from a distance, like they were miles away and not being whispered next to his ear. Steve felt his mind was still in a daze, and he felt too numb to process anything fully, though he could feel the heat rising in his cheeks, his skin flushing as fingers tickled against him. Billy liked calling him pet names. They were cute, weren’t they? He thought so. They made Steve feel like he was something special, that he deserved to be cared for. He let out a soft, contented noise, rubbing his face against the alpha, into his neck and marking him in his scent. He refused to move from his position. He was too comfortable to move, and he began to purr again, nuzzling closer.

“Princess…” Billy cooed with a light laugh.

Steve felt like his face was on fire as he slowly lifted his head, blinking his eyes open to see Billy smiling warmly down at him. His vison was still cloudy, but there was an unmistakable twinge of concern on his lips that made Steve pause, trying to recall what had been asked. Something about taking off his shirt? Was that it? He wasn’t quite sure.

“D-Do you think?” he asked, his voice tinged with hesitation as he bit his lip, focusing in on those mesmerizing eyes.

Was he always this dumb after sex? It would alarm him, if he had the energy to care.

Steve could vaguely recall feeling insecure earlier and not wanting to remove his shirt, but he couldn’t remember the reason why. The memory seemed so far away, almost like an eternity had passed. The only thing he knew for certain was that he was too tired for this. He didn’t want to have to think about anything, not anymore. Billy was here beside him, and Steve could trust him, right? Billy was an alpha, and it would be nice not to think for a bit, to just give in to his constant need to please.

If Billy thought he would be more comfortable without his shirt, he was probably right.

“Of course. I just want you to feel your best, sweetie. Wheeler really did a number on you,” the alpha soothed, fingers reaching to glide along the side of his cheek.

Oh.

Steve leaned into the caress, the tender pressure of fingers sending a wave of pleasure through him. He had forgotten about his earlier confrontation with Nancy, but it seemed to melt away, the memory of their argument fading into a distant blur.

Following the advice, Steve slowly lifted his upper body off the alpha, just enough to peel off his t-shirt. The fabric slid over his head and was tossed onto the bedroom floor with little care, soon to be forgotten about. The moment his bare skin met the open air, a gusty chill assaulted him, sending a shiver down his spine. Steve instinctively moved to cover himself with his arms, but before he could, Billy shot his hands forward, latching onto his wrists and holding them in place.

It was only then that Steve became fully aware of his situation—he was completely naked, basically straddling the alpha. The realization brought his mind back into the present moment, though it felt like he was wading through molasses. Billy didn’t hide how his eyes roamed over his exposed form, taking in every inch of his chest, torso, and groin. His mouth hung open slightly, scent thickening with desire, and blue eyes flashed red, betraying the primal hunger that resonated from inside him. There was no mistaking the raw lust that was etched across the alpha.

Huh.

Well, Billy didn’t find him completely off-putting. That had to count for something, right?

Feeling his unease grow, Steve shifted, pulling himself free. He twisted his body to lean against the pillows, yet the alpha was relentless, following after him.

Billy turned onto his side, his hand reaching out to trace a line down the center of his chest before pinning him in place as he continued to leer, fingers inevitably settling on his sternum. Steve could feel the heat of the alpha’s gaze. There was no mistaking the desire laid bare. It wasn’t something he was used to, at least not like this, and certainly not since his presentation, which left him feeling uncomfortable. Steve didn’t know how to handle the emotions suddenly making themselves known. Panic began to bubble up within him, his heart pounding as he struggled to find the right words to voice his discomfort.

“Did Wheeler ever knot you?” Billy asked, interrupting his line of thought. His tone was surprisingly calm as eyes finally lifted to meet his own.

What did that have to do with anything? Wasn’t tonight supposed to be about forgetting Nancy?

“What?” Steve questioned, clarity returning. He didn’t bother to hide the bark in his voice.

Nancy was the last person Steve wanted to think about. He just wanted to return to that blissful, floaty place he’d been in just moments ago, the place where everything felt warm and safe.

Billy tilted his head, his expression a mix of charming and smug, the corners of his mouth curving into a teasing smile as he looked down at him. The way his tongue traced slowly across his lips sent an unwelcome tremor through Steve, making the alpha look infuriatingly attractive at that moment. It was distracting, more than it should have been.

“Simple question, pretty boy,” Billy snickered, his voice dripping with playful arrogance.

Steve sighed and looked away, not wanting to stare at the alpha.

“N-no, we didn’t really fool around much these past few months,” he admitted, closing his eyes as he felt tears threatening to escape.

This wasn’t something Steve wanted to talk about. The reality stung too much. After his presentation, Nancy had shown little interest in doing anything with him, yet Steve had refused to face the truth staring him in the face: Nancy didn’t want him because he was a shitty omega. What kind of omega couldn’t entice their alpha into sex? A bullshit one, and Steve was bullshit—Nancy had made that clear enough.

He had been such a fool to ever believe that Nancy could love him. That anyone could, really.

“So, you’ve never been knotted?” Billy continued, his voice holding a note of excitement as he casually traced a finger down the line of his chest before settling on the soft swell of his breast, cupping it possessively.

Steve felt his arousal spike sharply at the further mention of knotting, the word alone sending a thrill through him. The sensation only grew as fingers pinched against his nipple, causing it to harden beneath their touch. Steve bit his lip, trying to stifle the sound that threatened to escape. He opened his eyes and met Billy’s gaze, seeing the dark, dilated pupils reflecting his own growing arousal.

“N-no,” he stuttered, taking a deep breath and trying to regain some semblance of control over his reactions.

Just because he had never been knotted didn’t mean he hadn’t thought about it, especially during his heat. It had completely consumed his thoughts, even though he had no practical experience with the act itself. The textbooks they were required to read in school had taught him about it, though he had barely been paying attention, too distracted by Mallory Knox, a pretty beta in his year. He regretted it, and he couldn’t shake his nagging curiosity. The texts and basically every alpha he knew claimed it was supposed to feel incredible, that omegas were supposed to love it, but Steve wondered if that was just said to make them more compliant. It wasn’t like there were a plethora of omegas around for him to ask, and the ones he did know, he didn’t consider himself close enough to ask.

As Billy made a faint, almost approving noise, he lifted his hand and gently wrapped it around his face.

“You should let me,” Billy began, closing in and placing a light kiss on his lips before continuing. “It’ll settle you, something I think you need after tonight. You’re soaking through your sheets, princess. You want it, want me. S’why you invited me back to your nest, right? Your omega wants to be fucked, needs it,” he sealed his words with another soft kiss, lingering a moment this time before pulling away.

Steve didn’t know anymore.

Did he want to be knotted? Is that why he invited Billy back to his place?

His mind was still feeling fuzzy, and this felt like too much to think about.

“I-I don’t know,” he admitted, shaking his head. Steve could barely form sentences, let alone determine what his omega wanted by inviting an alpha to bed. Weren’t they just going to cuddle?

Billy didn’t immediately respond. Instead, he took his hand and guided it slowly downward until it met the firm heat of his own erection. Steve felt his mouth fall open in surprise. He had almost forgotten how delightfully hard the alpha was, how right it felt pressed against him. The scent of musk and desire filled the air, a sensation that had been overshadowed by his muddled thoughts. Billy let out a shaky breath, and Steve could feel the warmth and wetness of precum seeping through the fabric of his jeans again, far more notable than before. His gaze was drawn to the prominent bulge pressing insistently against him as Billy started to thrust forward into his hand, creating a slow rhythm.

“You want this, sweetheart. You want me to fill you up, to fuck and knot you,” Billy murmured, his voice low and laden with desire as he rutted against his hand.

The fresh slick that Steve felt gush out of him with those words left no room for doubt.

Yes. Yes, he wanted all those things. He didn’t need to think about it. His alpha was right.

Instead of using words, Steve simply nodded.

“Then let me take care of you,” Billy said, releasing his hand and bringing his own to tuck hair behind his ear, fingers lingering.

Steve melted under the touch, his body instinctively leaning into the comfort Billy offered.

There was a small voice in the back of his mind, the same one from earlier, telling him that he shouldn’t be sleeping with a guy, especially an alpha, for the first time without really knowing them. It was bad enough that he had let Billy give him a hand job and finger him. Knotting was a far bigger deal, wasn’t it? Did it even matter?

Similar to before, Steve pushed the voice away. Billy was offering him care and affection, and he was doing it well. The longer they spent together, the more Steve felt himself drifting into a hazy, almost dreamy state and he desperately wanted to cling to it again, to have it consume him. The fuzziness was a welcome escape from reality. While sleeping with an alpha might not be the smartest choice, when had Steve Harrington ever been known to be smart? Never.

Not wanting to waste another moment, Steve leaned forward and captured Billy’s lips with his own. The alpha met him halfway, seeming just as eager as he licked into his mouth, calloused hands running through his untamed hair as fingers massaged his scalp with a gentle yet insistent touch. The onslaught of sensations was immensely arousing for Steve, slick continuing to soak into the bedsheets beneath him as his erection grew harder with each touch. It filled him with confidence, and he broke away from the kiss, smiling smugly down at his alpha.

Billy looked irresistibly handsome, and Steve used his strength to push Billy onto his back so his head rested against the headboard and pillows. It made for quite the sight, and Steve climbed on top of him, straddling him properly this time, with his thighs resting on either side of his waist. He made sure to seat himself directly on top of Billy’s hardening dick, the excitement flowing through him as he felt the stiffness beneath him. Despite the novelty of the position, Steve couldn’t deny his appreciation. Feeling just how turned on the alpha was made him feel powerful and reassured him of his desirability. It didn’t matter if Billy was imagining another omega who was far more attractive—right now, Steve felt like he was on top of the world.

Slowly, he began to slowly grind his hips downward, feeling the friction of his ass sliding against the clothed erection. His slick mixed with the precum seeping through Billy’s jeans created an incredible blend of heat. Each movement sent waves of pleasure through Steve as he felt the hard, insistent press against his entrance. The feeling was unexpectedly intense, and he was surprised when, after a few moments, Billy grasped his hips, stopping his movements. The touch was firm, fingers digging harshly into flesh with a controlling grip, while his eyes flashed a dangerous crimson red.

“Sorry, but you’re not the one in charge tonight, princess,” Billy said, wiggling his eyebrows before sliding his hands beneath his legs. With a surprising burst of strength, he lifted Steve effortlessly and tossed him to the opposite side of the bed.

Steve landed with a thud against the mattress, his heart pounding as he registered the shift in control. The playful dominance was exhilarating, sending an electrifying thrill through him. His cheeks flushed, heat spreading through him as his inner omega revelled in the prospect of their alpha wanting to play rough. It was insanely hot. Steve had never been with anyone who could overpower him in the way Billy could, and it turned him on more than it should. He could feel a fresh gush of slick seeping from him, thoroughly staining the sheets beneath him.

How embarrassing.

The situation was only made worse as Billy seemed to be entirely aware of the way his body reacted. His eyes settled on Steve’s open legs with a ravenous intensity, his tongue flickering out briefly in appreciation before a wicked grin spread across his lips, making it clear just how much he enjoyed the sight.

“Naughty, naughty, omega,” Billy purred, his voice dripping with mockery as he settled onto his knees, positioning himself directly in front of Steve’s spread legs.

Steve couldn’t stop his eyes from lowering, watching the alpha move his hands towards his belt, fingers lingering teasingly over the loops, tracing them with a slow, tantalizing touch before unbuckling the strap. The sound of the buckle clicking open seemed to echo in the charged silence. Fingers then glided down to the zipper, pulling it slowly as the fabric of his pants gave way. There was something undeniably hot about seeing Billy undress. It was almost like a private show that Steve was intensely interested in. He had to bite down hard on his lip, fighting to quiet the moan that threatened to escape as Billy pulled out his erection, clearly having chosen to go commando that evening.

Jesus H. Christ.

It wasn’t as if Steve was unaware of the difference between a male beta and a male alpha. He had been forced to read about it, at least on a clinical level, during class, though he admitted he hadn’t paid the most attention. Why should he? He was convinced he was going to be a beta, and the intricate details of pheromones and dynamics honestly confused him. It all seemed unnecessarily complicated, but seeing the difference in person was jarring. While he had seen his fair share of penises growing up in changing rooms—at least before they were segregated by secondary gender in high school—they had never been erect or in a situation quite like this.

Nestled in a sea of blonde curls was the most striking penis Steve had ever seen. Was it strange to think that a penis could be considered pretty? He wasn’t sure, but he couldn’t deny that every instinct he had urged him to take it inside, maybe even into his mouth. It made for an incredibly erotic sight as he felt his arousal pool in his belly. Billy was a few inches longer than him and thicker, with a noticeable curve at the head. Steve also spotted a bump at the end, which he could only assume was a knot. It was the only anatomical difference between them, aside from the size. As he eyed it, Steve couldn’t help but feel a surge of excitement.

No wonder Billy had become so popular since his arrival in Hawkins.

“See something you want?” the alpha quipped, his voice filled with confidence.

Steve bit the inside of his cheek, trying to suppress his rising embarrassment. Despite his attempts to look away, his gaze remained fixated on Billy, specifically his dick, especially as the alpha lowered his hand and began to stroke himself with long, drawn-out, teasing motions. Steve couldn’t recall ever wanting something so viscerally.

How had he never considered being with a guy before? This was infinitely hotter than many of his previous sexual experiences, and they had barely even started.

Billy shook his head with a self-satisfied smirk, and Steve wished he didn’t find the alpha’s arrogance such a turn on. Billy was insufferable, yet Steve couldn’t tear his eyes away, especially as the alpha continued stroking himself.

Just as he thought that, Billy abandoned his grip on his erection and shifted forward, resting his weight on Steve’s knees before leaning in and capturing his lips in a forceful, almost frenzied kiss. He kissed as if there were no tomorrow, his lips moving with a pure passion that left Steve breathless. The pace was brutal, but it was everything Steve didn’t know he needed. He struggled to keep up as fingers dug into his neck, Billy anchoring himself as he continued his relentless pace. Steve felt completely owned. He groaned as he raised his arms, wrapping them around the alpha and spreading them across his sculpted back, nails digging into the firm muscles as he tried to touch every inch he could reach. He could feel teeth biting his lips as hands travelled to encircle his neck when the alpha pulled away for air.

“Such a perfect omega,” Billy breathed against his skin, voice low and sensual. he didn’t linger before lowering his mouth to the sensitive spot on Steve’s neck, directly beneath his scent gland.

There was no holding back the desperate whine that escaped him as Billy began to lick, suck, and nibble at the area.

“Billy,” Steve cried, wanting to melt.

It was sinful, and Steve instinctively spread his legs wider, yearning for attention elsewhere, and he was intently aware of the way the slick seemed to pour from him. He felt a deep sense of humiliation, but there was an alpha who clearly thought he was perfect—something Steve had never experienced before. For once in his life, he didn’t feel like a failure. Steve basked in the praise, letting himself become completely enthralled by the heady musk emanating from Billy. It was intoxicating, heightening his own lust and making it impossible to ignore the raw, primal need coursing through him. His inner omega craved more, yearning for every touch and every bit of attention the alpha was willing to give.

He was disappointed when Billy pulled away after only a few moments. It was frustrating. Steve could feel the beginnings of an orgasm grow, and it was something he wanted to explore. It had been awhile since he had blown his load simply by making out, but the idea seemed all too appealing. He didn’t have a chance to complain, not when Billy placed a line of sweet kisses down his neck, fingers ghosting across his ear and causing a shiver to run through his body. The change was abrupt but necessary, giving Steve a moment to collect himself—at least until the alpha lowered his mouth onto one of his nipples.

“Ah!” he blurted out, taken aback by the sudden action.

That was something nobody had ever done to him before. Why would they? While Steve could admit that his nipples had become far more sensitive since his presentation, he hadn’t expected to feel so overwhelmed by the basic stimulation. It felt fucking fantastic. Instead of easing up, his reaction only caused Billy to intensify his actions, his tongue swirling around the pebbled nub and teasing it with slow, purposeful strokes before suckling gently. His free hand ventured to Steve’s other peck, fingers splayed over the flesh as he kneaded the supple area with a firm grip, occasionally pinching his nipple with a sharp, pleasurable twist.

Biting his lip didn’t stop the whine from escaping as Steve arched into the touch, his eyes squeezed shut as a rush of heat spread through him. His toes curled tightly into the bedsheets once again, the intense pleasure making him lose himself in the moment. He could feel precum leaking from his dick and was becoming concerned that he might cum from this alone. It would be an embarrassment he would never live down.

Billy seemed to sense his rising pleasure as he lifted his mouth, a teasing chuckle escaping his lips. With a deliberate shift of his lower body, he repositioned himself so that their erections pressed firmly against one another, the contact sending shocks of orgasmic heat through both of them. It was almost enough to distract Steve from the way the alpha was still diligently kneading his chest, fingers squeezing, their pressure alternating between firm and gentle, creating a rhythm that complemented the friction between their bodies. The combination left Steve breathless.

“S-Shit, Billy,” he sighed, overwhelmed.

There was no reason this had to feel so damn amazing.

"Princess, you need a proper alpha like me to take care of you," Billy murmured, his voice layered in authority. "I know exactly what your body craves, what you've been denying yourself all this time."

The words sent a tremor through Steve's body, leaving him no time to calm himself before Billy lowered his mouth back onto his nipple. His tongue teased the tiny nub while his hips shifted, grinding their erections together in a way that sent waves of pleasure through both of them. The friction was electrifying, with every movement stoking the fire between them, making it clear that Billy intended to take complete control of the moment.

“B-Bil…” the words swallowed by a breathless moan as Steve continued to arch his back, desperately seeking more from the alpha.

Could he really argue with those words? Steve didn’t think so. Billy was playing him like a fiddle. It had been a while since he had last been this turned on. None of the girls he had ever been with had made him feel like this, and Steve had slept with plenty, especially before he and Nancy got together. It wasn’t a part of his life he was proud of, given that he preferred having a deeper connection with others, but the sex had always been easy and fun. It wasn’t something he ever had to think twice about, and he allowed himself to be distracted by the simplicity of it, even if he yearned for something more. That was why he had been so enamoured with Nancy, but he could admit that none of their sexual encounters, even before his presentation, were this steamy. It had to be because Billy was touching him in ways nobody else had bothered to, right? That made sense.

Billy snorted, teeth sinking into his flesh one last time. The sharp sensation lingered even after he pulled back and began to crawl toward the end of the bed, his movements slow and predatory. Once settled, his hands found their way to Steve’s hips, the rough pads of his fingers tracing the curve of his waist with a touch that could only be called possessive. Then, tightening his grip, he slipped his hands beneath his hips and flipped him around in one fluid motion. Steve barely had time to register the shift before he found himself with his chest pressed against the soft pillows, his cheek resting on the cool fabric as his breathing quickened. The sudden change in position was alarming, his mind struggling to catch up with the alpha’s intentions, but it didn’t take him long to get with the program.

He was going to get fucked. That was the whole point of tonight, wasn’t it? It made sense that Billy would want to see him present, so Steve lifted himself onto his hands and knees, doing his best to recall what little he remembered from those text books.

“Got yourself a fine ass there, sweetie,” Billy drawled, his voice dripping with smug approval as his hand traced a languid path down the curve of his spine before settling on his ass and giving it a playful slap. The sound echoed in the room, and Steve bit his lip, not wanting to appear too desperate by crying out. He knew he wasn’t successful when he heard the amused laugh filling the air from the alpha, whose hand returned to the spot, this time caressing the area with a soothing, almost mocking tenderness. It felt surprisingly nice, especially when fingers drifted lower, grazing against his entrance with a feather-light touch that made his entire body tense with anticipation.

“Still nice and wet for your alpha, like a good boy,” Billy continued, his tone bordering on condescending. Steve was grateful his face was buried in the pillows, hiding the blush that spread across his cheeks, his skin burning with a mix of humiliation and arousal.

This was mortifying. Steve hated how his body seemed like putty in the alpha’s hands, how eagerly it seemed to respond.

He wasn’t surprised when he felt two fingers slide into him with ease. Steve knew he was still loose from earlier, but that didn’t make it feel any less fantastic as they brushed against his prostate, finding it with precision. Steve released a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding as his body instinctively relaxed, fingers teasing his most sensitive spot with infuriating skill. They didn’t press hard enough to fully satisfy, but just enough to drive him wild with need. It was maddening, yet somehow perfect, and he couldn’t suppress the desperate whine that escaped into his pillow, needing far more.

Satisfied with the lack of resistance, Billy carefully added a third finger, sliding it in beside the others. The stretch was noticeable, bordering on uncomfortable, but nothing Steve couldn’t handle. His breath hitched when he felt the alpha shift his weight, Billy leaning forward until his lips brushed softly against his shoulder.

“You’re taking me so well, princess. You must’ve really wanted this,” Billy whispered, his voice a low murmur outside his ear, the words sending shivers down his spine as the alpha nosed against his neck, fingers moving with expertise, coaxing his body open with each delicate stroke.

Steve let out a shaky breath. It felt like his mind was only working at half speed, and it was becoming difficult to focus on anything other than the burning need inside him or the orgasm he could feel building every time those fingers danced across his prostate. Was it so wrong that he enjoyed having something inside him, filling him up like this? He wasn’t sure. Steve had never allowed himself to give in to this need before, this desire to get fucked, but that didn’t mean he hadn’t thought about it. Did that mean he wanted it tonight? That he had invited Billy back to his place because of that?

Thinking was too much.

He stayed silent, choosing instead to take a deep inhale of that wintry pine scent that made his knees go weak. Billy smelled ridiculously sweet right now, a tantalizing mix of musky arousal that filled the air, heavy and thick. Steve felt delirious, wanting to bathe himself in the scent so that nobody could mistake who he belonged to. The thought of being marked so thoroughly sent a shiver through him, his mind growing hazy. With each breath, it became harder to think, to resist. This was everything his inner omega craved—being overpowered and consumed by his alpha until his own scent was lost in the mix. Steve could feel himself yielding completely, his body and mind aligning with what his instincts screamed for.

Maybe Billy was right.

It was impossible to focus on anything outside of his own pleasure. The puzzle pieces inside him were finally locking into place, creating a picture of something he had never fully understood until now. The way those fingers pressed into him with newfound purpose sent jolts of sensation through his entire body, each thrust stretching him further, pushing him closer to the edge. Steve could feel just how loose he was, how his body clenching around those invading digits, desperate to hold onto them and keep them there. But it wasn’t enough. Not nearly enough. With a calculated, almost brutal purpose, Billy drove all three fingers deep, slamming them against his prostate with such force that his vision exploded into blinding white.

“Oh, fuck,” Steve moaned as he pushed back against the fingers, chasing the sensation.

Billy snorted, amused, but obliged, sending another wave of intense pleasure crashing through his body.

This time, Steve had the presence of mind to bite down on his pillow, desperate to hide his reaction. It didn’t work; a gasp tore from his throat as his hips bucked, his dick grinding against the bedsheets with increasing urgency. The sensation of three fingers inside him was overwhelming, more intense than he had anticipated, every nerve ending alight with a burning pleasure that bordered on unbearable. It felt incredible, every inch of him alive with raw desire.

Billy let out a faint cooing noise against his ear, kissing his neck sweetly as he hummed. Steve felt another tremor course through his body as Billy pressed his weight more firmly against him, the solid length of his dick sliding against his thighs. Steve could feel the alpha establishing a steady rhythm with his fingers, each thrust aimed perfectly, slamming into that one spot inside him that made his vision blur. His hips continued to move, rocking back into the alpha’s touch, wordlessly demanding more and aching for release as his orgasm loomed ever closer.

This was barely touching the surface of what he truly needed. Feeling Billy continue to press his erection against him, denying him the one thing they both knew he needed, was maddening. Why wasn’t the alpha fucking him? He was stretched enough!

“Billy,” Steve whined as he turned his neck to face the alpha head-on, “Weren’t you going to fuck me? Please? I don’t want to cum from your fingers again. I-I need more. Please?”

He regretted the words the moment they left his mouth. They were needy and weak, pathetic, really. Steve had more sense than to allow himself to speak those words aloud, or at least he usually did. Still, a need was growing within him, and it was bordering on painful. He could barely breathe, let alone think. Billy would understand—his alpha often seemed to know exactly what Steve needed before he did himself.

“Well, since you asked so nicely,” Billy joked, his voice dripping with smug satisfaction as he pulled his fingers away. Steve kept his gaze locked on the alpha, his heart rate skipping a beat as he watched Billy bring his slick-coated fingers to his mouth. With deliberate slowness, Billy’s tongue darted out, lapping at the slick sheen that glistened on his fingers. A low, appreciative moan escaped his lips, blue eyes fluttering shut as he savoured the taste. “Fuck, you taste just as perfect as you look,” he purred, his voice low and admiring.

The compliment, though meant to flatter, left Steve feeling uncertain. He turned his face away, unsure how to process or respond to the praise. Everything was too much, and his thoughts felt disjointed.

Billy let out a light noise, seeming to sense his unease and finding amusement in it. He leaned forward and gently slipped a wet finger beneath his chin, guiding him until they were face to face.

“You’re so shy for an omega who clearly gets off on praise, princess,” Billy teased, flashing a wide, knowing grin as he collected more slick with his fingers, eyes glinting with playful mischief. “It’s cute, though,” he continued, his tone softening slightly but still laced with an undeniable edge of hunger. “You really do taste fucking fantastic. Might just turn me into an addict.” His smile grew wider as he brought his slick-coated fingers to his mouth once more, his tongue lazily tracing the residue.

Steve didn’t think his face could possibly burn any brighter, the heat searing beneath his skin. He didn’t get off on praise—he just really liked it. There was a difference, but he was too detached from reality to think clearly about it now, not when he felt a finger grazing along his inner thigh.

When he remained silent, Billy let out a sigh, a hint of frustration playing in his eyes. He closed the distance between them, leaning in to place a kiss on his lips before pulling away. The gesture left Steve feeling disoriented, his cheeks burning even hotter when he could taste his own sweetness lingering on his lips.

Why was the alpha being so considerate and kind? It wasn’t as if Steve deserved it.

The thought didn’t have time to fester as Billy shifted his position on the bed, the mattress dipping under his weight. Steve turned around, lowering his head into the plush pillows, trying to ground himself while feeling the unmistakable press of an erection against his ass, teasing him. He gripped the bedsheets tightly, his nails digging into the fabric as he fought to control himself.

This was something he needed. Desperately. While getting fucked by an alpha wasn’t something he had seriously considered until tonight, Billy was right. Steve needed this.

Billy released a low growl that resonated deep in his chest, a sound that made his inner omega squirm. The alpha took his time, lining up his dick and pressing into him with measured care. It was a torturously slow process, each inch of girth stretching Steve past his limits. The pace was something he knew he would be thankful for by tomorrow. The sensations were intense, far more so than any fingers had ever been, and burning with a fierce heat that made him catch his breath. Steve struggled to stay silent, biting against the inside of his cheek. When Billy was finally fully sheathed inside him, he leaned forward, pressing even further before placing a tender kiss on his shoulder, his lips ghosting across the heated skin.

“This okay?” he asked, his lips placing a line of kisses along Steve’s neck.

It felt more than alright. Steve had never realized that this was the sensation he had been craving—the need to be filled. It felt like he could finally breathe, could finally relax, and it was impossible not to want to sink into that feeling. It was eerily similar to the sensations he felt when his mind went fuzzy from breathing in the alpha’s scent, only now he was more alert. It was perfection.

He hummed in response, not trusting himself with words, which only made Billy release a pleased groan as he shifted.

“You feel incredible, sweetie,” the alpha whispered, pressing one final, lingering kiss on top of his scent gland before withdrawing and settling his hands on Steve’s hips. “Like you were made just for me to fuck. My own pretty omega, just for me to enjoy.”

Steve beamed, a rush of warmth flooding through him at the words. His cheeks flushed with pleasure, and he felt a swell of confidence despite everything.

He might be bullshit as an omega, but it was pleasing to know that his body could bring such satisfaction to an alpha. It might be the only thing he felt he had going for him, but for now, it was enough.

Billy didn’t wait for a response and began to thrust slowly, each movement calculated and purposeful. It didn’t take him long to locate his prostate, given how familiar his fingers were with the area. Steve couldn’t silence the moan that escaped his lips as he felt the head of Billy’s dick pressing against that perfect spot. That was all the confirmation the alpha honed in on the area, thrusting in and out with a hurried, unsteady rhythm.

It was pure ecstasy. Soon, the only noises coming from his bedroom was the sound of flesh slapping against flesh, a mixture of soft moans and cries escaping from both of them and echoing off the walls.

Each time Billy nailed his prostate, it felt like a burst of fireworks exploding behind his eyes. The intense pleasure left his mind struggling to keep up with the sensations coursing through his body. Steve dug his fingers into the bedsheets, clutching them tightly as he gasped and moaned into his pillow, feeling drool slide down his cheek. Billy wrapped his arms securely around his waist, holding him in place, but it was hardly necessary. The only thing that could possibly move Steve was the earth itself. He found himself instinctively pushing back, meeting the alpha with each thrust and chasing that sweet, sweet pleasure.

“Fuck, Billy,” Steve cried out as Billy used his hands to draw his upper body back, driving his dick even deeper inside him.

The intensity of his own pleasure made it impossible for Steve to focus on anything else. He could tell it wouldn’t be long before he came, especially if Billy maintained this relentless pace. The knowledge made him feel insecure—given the amount of sex he’d had, he’d thought he’d be able to last longer. Each thrust overwhelmed him, but in the most exhilarating way. His dick was on the brink of bursting, pre-cum oozing from the tip and soaking into the silky sheets beneath him. When Steve tried to bring a hand down to his aching dick, hoping to hasten his climax, Billy reached down and grabbed his wrist, halting him.

“C’mon, princess,” Billy breathed raggedly into his ear. “You don’t need that with me here. Be a good boy and cum just from my dick. I know you can.”

The words seemed almost too much to handle as Billy dragged a hand to his chest, groping the softness and pinching his nipple. Steve cried out, feeling sharp jolts of pleasure course through him. Billy seized the moment, lowering his mouth to his neck, the same spot from earlier, and biting down with a precise, well-timed thrust. It was electrifying, as if a switch had been flipped inside him, and suddenly he was drowning in pleasure. An embarrassing whine escaped his throat as he felt himself climax, his body convulsing under the force of the intense, unfamiliar sensations.

It was pure, euphoric elation.

Everything that happened after that moment blurred together. Steve could hear Billy saying something, but the words didn’t quite register in his mind. He thought it might have been praise—it sounded like it—but he couldn’t be sure. It didn’t seem to matter, nor did his lack of response as Billy quickened his pace, thrusting with renewed vigour now that he wasn’t focused on making him come. Steve felt almost numb as Billy slid in and out with effortless ease. The sensation made him feel used, but in a strangely satisfying way. He could hear Billy release a long, drawn-out cry before the alpha bit down on the same spot on his neck, beneath his scent gland. The pain shocked him back into alertness as Steve was overcome by the sensation of cum flooding inside him.

Holy shit.

The warmth, the wetness, should have bothered him. It should have been gross, but it was everything his inner omega craved. Steve felt pleasantly full, his nerves calmed and quieted, making him feel as though he was floating. He thought Billy was finished when the alpha suddenly shifted, causing a sharp pain deep inside him. It only lasted a moment, and when Steve tried to move, he felt a new kind of discomfort, a sensation of something locked together.

Oh.

This must be what a knot feels like.

The moment he made the realization, he felt more seed spill from the alpha, filling him to the absolute brim. Steve felt bloated with cum, like his stomach was extended with it, yet the feeling off fullness made his omega want to melt into a puddle of happiness. Steve allowed himself to sink into that feeling, letting it wash over him completely. It was like finding a peace he hadn’t known he was missing, a deep, satisfying sense that he was exactly where he was meant to be. He was barely aware as Billy shifted, arms lowering against his waist, gently guiding them both to lie on their sides. The movement was smooth, and soon they were spooning, their bodies fitting together perfectly as if they had done this a thousand times before.

It was utterly perfect.

Steve could feel as his alpha settled a hand low on his stomach, the weight and placement undeniably possessive as fingers sprayed out across the area. Unlike earlier, it barely registered in his mind. Steve simply closed his eyes, allowing the fuzziness to overtake him. Billy let his other hand slide upwards, cupping his breast in a manner far gentler than before. It was a stark contrast, yet Steve was entirely aware as fingers brushed lightly over a still-hardened nipple, teasing and flicking it with soft and purposeful strokes. A whimper escaped his lips as his body leaned into the touch, wanting more. It was only sound he could muster as the world around him faded into a blur. His body felt aflame, a familiar heat coursing through his veins, but his mind was drifting deeper into a serene, blissful emptiness where nothing else mattered. Billy might have continued his teasing—Steve wasn’t sure—as a warmth enveloped him. He was barely aware of anything other than the gentle pulses of pleasure coursing through him and the knowledge that he wanted to stay locked in this moment forever.

He wasn’t sure how long they stayed connected. It was like he was in a daze, like he was outside his body, not in, but it was everything he needed. There was no purpose in fighting back against his inner instincts, not right now. Steve finally felt entirely at ease with himself, fully embracing his omega nature as he melted into the feeling of being filled and united with an alpha. Time seemed to blur and lose meaning, but he didn’t care. All that mattered was that he had his alpha, and that was enough.

Reality began to seep back in slowly, like waking from a dream.

Wait, had he fallen asleep?

As Steve became aware of his surroundings, the more he noticed the low purring that vibrated from his chest. It was loud, at least to his ears, and he wasn’t sure how long he had been doing it. His throat felt dry, like he was parched, which led him to believe it had been going on for a while. The thought didn’t bother him as much as he would have expected. It wasn’t like earlier—he felt more relaxed now, more content. He leaned backwards, wanting to snuggle into his alpha, seeking comfort in the warmth of their closeness. Instead of cuddling against a firm chest, he was met with velvety pillows, cool to the touch.

What?

Steve barely had time to process the information when he could feel a hand moving across his stomach, and he realized that Billy was cleaning away the sticky remnants of their coupling with his forgotten boxers, yet again. Steve didn’t have a chance to say anything before the alpha then lowered the fabric to his leaking ass, gently wiping away the mess that had accumulated there.

Huh.

Billy was full of surprises.

Steve shifted, turning to lie on his back. As he opened his eyes, he found Billy smiling down at him, his expression soft yet tinged with that familiar, smug confidence. Leaning forward, the alpha casually tossed the boxers aside, then reached out, his fingers combing through Steve’s unruly hair.

“There you are,” he hummed, closing the distance between them and placing a faint kiss on his lips. “Feel better?”

There was something terribly smug about the look Billy smiled, his bright eyes gleaming with pride. It made Steve want to roll his eyes, but he resisted the urge. What kind of question was that, anyway? Of course he felt better. Who didn’t after getting fucked? Thankful as he was, there was no way he was going to give Billy the satisfaction of hearing it. Not yet, anyway.

Not wanting to bother with a response, Steve lifted his head just enough to close the gap between them, his lips pressing against Billy’s in a slow, delicate kiss. He tried to conceal the fondness blooming in his chest, the warmth that spread through him as their mouths moved together. It was a losing battle, especially when Billy didn’t resist. The alpha met him halfway, returning the kiss with an uncharacteristic affection. It was everything, and Steve threaded his fingers through blonde curls, feeling the gel as he gently massaged the alpha’s scalp, similar to how Billy had touched him earlier. The soft groan from Billy was all the encouragement Steve needed to continue.

They kissed sensually as time stood still between them. Billy gradually lowered them back onto the bed, guiding Steve down with him until they were lying naked and intertwined on the sheets once more.

It was serene.

When Steve finally pulled away, a smile spread across his face as he nestled his head against the alpha's neck, returning to the spot he had claimed earlier. He breathed in the blissful scent that was uniquely Billy, savouring its familiarity as he allowed a light purr to escape him. Steve could feel his mind drifting off into the comfortable haze the scent seemed to offer to him, and he couldn’t help but think that maybe, just maybe, he could get used to this.

“That was insane,” he finally exclaimed with a giggle, fully aware that the alpha was awaiting his reaction. Steve didn’t hesitate before burrowing deep into the other as he felt arms wrap around him, pulling him into a tight embrace.

The words were an understatement. That was probably the best sex Steve had ever had in his life, though he wasn’t sure if he could entirely trust his judgment at the moment, not when his mind seemed so far away. At the very least, he knew he needed to explore sleeping with guys more often. Apparently, Steve Harrington wasn’t a straight as everyone assumed. While surprising, it didn’t bother him as much as he expected.

Getting dicked down felt incredible, and the knot was just the icing on the cake. It wasn’t something he felt Steve felt he could even put into words, yet he knew he wanted it again. The only issue was that none of the alphas at school seemed interested in him, not that he could blame them. It wasn’t like Steve was much to write home about, not anymore, at least.

Billy hummed against him, the deep rumble from his chest distracting Steve from his thoughts and soothing the fears and anxieties that were starting to creep in. It was exactly what he didn’t know he needed, and he was surprised when Billy shifted to close the distance between them, placing a kiss on his forehead before leaning back.

Oh.

That was not what Steve had been expecting, and he could feel his heart skip a beat, his cheeks flushing. Not bothering with a response, Steve closed his eyes again, settling back into place, his mind thinking forward. He knew better than to expect the alpha to stay the night—this wasn’t what tonight was about—but that didn’t make the thought of being left alone any easier. The idea of returning to the reality where no one truly cared for or even liked him was something he wasn’t ready to face, not when he felt so completely content, so blissfully boneless.

If only this moment could last…

As the minutes ticked by in peaceful silence, Steve felt the weight of exhaustion drawing him toward sleep. It was so easy to let go, wrapped securely by another and feeling as fingers traced sensual patterns down his spine. Steve wasn’t entirely sure when Billy had started this soothing gesture, but it felt lovely. The tenderness lulled him into a state of calm that he was reluctant to leave. His inner omega urged him to relax further and sink deeper into the serene haze.

"Just stay with me until I fall asleep. Please?" Steve whispered, his voice barely audible and muffled against the alpha’s chest.

He didn’t dare lift his head, choosing instead to keep his face buried to hide his vulnerability. Asking for this felt like too much, a request too raw. Steve couldn’t bring himself to look at Billy, terrified of what he might see—indifference or, worse, annoyance at his neediness. The last thing he wanted was to see disappointment or be reminded that he was nothing more than a quick fuck for Billy. Steve knew he was selfish and weak, but the thought of being left alone was unbearable. He didn’t want to return to that cold, empty space where loneliness was suffocating. Just for tonight, he wanted to know what it felt like to be cared for, to fall asleep wrapped up in another, even if it was just an illusion.

Steve loathed this part of himself that craved affection and connection, especially when it was unearned, and he knew it would never be reciprocated. Yet, he wasn’t strong enough to fight it. All he wanted was to close his eyes and drift off, feeling, if only for a few moments, that he wasn’t entirely alone.

Billy remained quiet, likely lost in thought. It should have worried Steve, yet he was far too distracted by the gentle, steady motion of his fingers tracing down his back. It was a small comfort, the rhythm of his touch resembling a steady heartbeat, making him feel secure and desired.

“Sure thing, princess,” Billy whispered after a moment, his lips brushing lightly against Steve’s skin as he leaned in to kiss on his cheek, lingering just a second longer than necessary.

Steve smiled, feeling his dimples press against his soft lips. It was a relief to know that he wasn’t going to be abandoned, at least not tonight and not by Billy. He didn’t fully understand why he wanted Billy to stick around, but after everything he had been through tonight, Steve wasn’t going to fight his instincts.

Today had been a disaster, and instead of saying anything further, Steve pushed Billy further back into the pillows, pressing himself close until no space remained between them. With their bodies entwined, he allowed himself to breathe in the crisp vanilla scent, letting it fill his senses and quiet his racing thoughts as his mind went blank, the scent consuming him once again. Everything, his multiple shortcomings as an omega, a son, and as a person, along with his strained relationship with Nancy, could wait until tomorrow. Steve refused to ruin this moment by focusing on anything but the present. Tonight, he was safe, secure, and held by an alpha who wanted to protect him. That was all that mattered.

Comforted by that knowledge, it didn’t take long for Steve to drift off, falling into a peaceful, dreamless sleep.

***

Steve jumped awake the next morning to the harsh blaring of his alarm, heart pounding in his chest as his body reacted instinctively, hand flying out to silence the noise before he was fully conscious. His fingers fumbled over the buttons for a moment before finally finding the right one, the sound cutting off and leaving behind a lingering ringing in his ears.

He let out a groggy sigh, sinking back into the pillows for a brief second.

His body was still heavy with sleep, and he had to force himself to open his eyes. The clock read 7:15 a.m., and he groaned, closing them again as he burrowed deeper into the warmth of his cocoon of blankets. He was entirely too exhausted for this, and the thought of facing school, with all its demands and expectations, felt impossible. His omega wanted him to skip school and spend the day dozing in bed, and Steve sighed, mulling over whether he actually had to attend class. It was the day after Halloween, and surely most students wouldn’t bother showing up. It seemed unlikely that teachers would introduce anything important today, right? Still, he was apt to miss time due to his heats, and he wasn’t exactly in a position to skip, especially if he wanted to graduate on time.

Being an omega sucked. Being a dumb one on top of it? Tragic.

Time passed, his mind feeling numb as he contemplated his choices. He really didn’t want to face school today. He just wanted to sleep, and it was only when he let out a heavy breath, sinking deeper into his sheets, that he became aware of the thick alphan musk clinging to them.

How had he not noticed until right now? It was a rich, earthy scent of vanilla, pine, and spice, causing goosebumps to form on his arms as he breathed it in. It was starkly different from the familiar, soothing notes of lavender, honey, and sweetness he had come to associate with Nancy. The realization hit him hard: it wasn’t Nancy he was smelling, but someone else entirely, and the vivid memories of last night surged back with startling clarity, jolting him fully awake.

What the hell? Had he really slept with Billy Hargrove?

The moment Steve forced himself upright from the tangled sheets, the answer became abundantly clear. A sharp, stabbing pain radiated from his lower back down to his ass, with each breath sending waves of discomfort through his body. The pain only intensified as he shifted, a relentless, throbbing sensation that made him wince with every movement. It felt as though all his nerves and muscles were protesting the strain he had put them through the night before.

Jesus H. Christ.

What was he thinking, sleeping with an alpha? The obvious answer was that he wasn’t thinking at all.

Steve had never acted like that with another person—so dependent, insecure, and utterly weak. It was humiliating. While it might not have been his first one-night stand, he usually had far more game. The more he thought back on it, the more it seemed as though he was hardly in control of his actions. For some reason, his inner omega had thought it was a good idea to bring a strange alpha into his bed and allow them to fuck him. It made no logical sense, and Steve now understood why omegas often earned a bad reputation for being, well, slutty. As the memories of last night flooded back, he was forced to recount what happened between him and Nancy and their argument in the bathroom.

Bullshit. He was bullshit. She had never loved him, and their whole relationship was bullshit.

Damn it. Was he truly so pathetic and unlovable?

Steve let out a choked whine, the sound barely more than a sob before he felt the dam inside him crack. His unshed emotions erupted in a rush, and his hands tightened around a pillow, clutching it to his chest as if it were a lifeline. He buried his face in its plush softness, the fabric cool against his flushed skin, and Steve used it as a shield to muffle his cries and catch his tears as he allowed himself this one brief moment of weakness.

Bullshit. That’s all he was. Bullshit, bullshit, bullshit. How had he been so blind?

Every breath felt laboured, his chest constricting as if trying to swallow him whole. The weight of his emotions pressed down on him, making it nearly impossible to steady himself, though Steve knew he had to try. He understood, logically, that this breakdown wasn’t something he had the time for. He couldn’t afford to be late to class, even if he wanted nothing more than to collapse into his bed, his safe haven, and cry.

Not only was he bullshit, but a slut too, apparently.

Lovely.

If he didn’t have basketball practice this morning, Steve knew he wouldn’t be able to drag himself out of bed. That was decided. He just wanted to sit here, sulk, and cry. Schoolwork was something he could theoretically catch up on, but Coach had a zero-tolerance policy for missed practice. There was no way Steve Harrington was going to risk being benched for the first game of the season, thank you very much. Basketball was about the only aspect of his life that didn’t seem to be falling apart. He was great at it, something others were always keen to tell him. After everything that happened last night, he needed something to cling to.

With a shaky sigh, Steve slowly opened his eyes and pushed himself upright, dragging his weary body out of bed. He would have time to cry tonight and just needed to make it through the day. As he swung his legs over the side, the motion triggered a sudden pain that travelled through his lower back, down to his hips, and accumulated in his ass.

Great.

There were more than a few female alphas he could have taken home if that was what his inner omega wanted. The notion of letting a guy fuck him was reckless enough, but to have done so right before an important practice? That was a whole new level of stupidity. At this point, Steve shouldn’t have been surprised. His choices recently had been questionable at best. Things with Billy had been intense, but not necessarily in the way he had anticipated. He couldn’t honestly say he regretted what happened between them. He definitely didn’t, but he hadn’t expected to feel this sore. He hadn’t considered the aftermath of letting a male alpha fuck him, but he could also admit that he wasn’t really thinking clearly last night. His omega had taken over, guiding his actions in ways he didn’t fully understand. Steve wasn’t sure how to process that.

For now, his priority was to walk without limping. The last thing he needed was for Tommy H. to make a snide comment and put two and two together.

Steve forced himself to walk straight as he made his way to the shower, his mind racing with questions about what last night meant for his relationship with Billy. The alpha barely seemed to tolerate him, so the fact that they had hooked up was strange, wasn’t it? It wasn’t supposed to be anything more than sex, but Steve couldn’t shake the feeling that it was different from all the previous flings he had experienced over the years.

Was it because Billy wasn’t a beta? Sex with Nancy had never been quite so intense so perhaps it was related to Billy knotting him? Steve wasn’t sure, and he was beginning to regret not paying more attention in biology class. The thoughts kept swirling in his head, refusing to settle as he tried to focus on showering.

Fucking Hargrove.

It wasn’t like Steve had genuine feelings for Billy. Last night was purely physical. All it took was for Billy to start talking, and any attraction Steve felt would evaporate. Well, except for last night.

Whatever.

It wasn’t worth thinking about. Billy wasn’t going to act differently, and neither would he. They would both just chalk last night up to raging teenage hormones. That’s all it was, either way.

Steve ended up rushing through his morning routine, feeling sluggish. His mind was already running through the different ways he could try to make amends with Nancy. While he could admit that he was at fault for their relationship failing—she hadn’t been wrong in calling him out—he could improve. She just needed to explain what needed to change and where he messed up. He was probably too needy, but he was willing to accept that and swallow down his pesky instincts. This was just a brief hiccup, but he was certain their relationship could recover.

Would it be too much to get her flowers? Maybe. Though there was still a tiny part of him that felt bitter about how she handled things, he brushed it aside. While he did want to get back together, she should be the one to approach him first. She had made it clear that she needed space, and Steve, being himself, was too oblivious to notice. So, he would give her space.

Everything would be fine.

He hadn’t meant to spend so much time lost in thought about Nancy and the mess his life had become. Unfortunately, that was just the beginning of his problems. He spent an excessive amount of time in the shower struggling to scrub away the scent of Billy that clung to him. The smell was infuriatingly persistent, and despite his best efforts to clean himself thoroughly, it refused to fade or diminish. It was mortifying, especially knowing that he had let the alpha knot him, and he never once considered or even thought to use a condom.

What had he been thinking? No wonder he stunk.

Last night had been a series of bad choices: going to the party, letting Nancy drink, following her to the bathroom, taking Billy home, and letting the alpha fuck and knot him, and all without a condom. Steve wasn’t necessarily worried—he was on the pill and clean, but he didn’t know about Billy. Neither of them were in their cycles, though, so they should be fine? How had they not discussed this? His inner omega had been the one in control, making careless decisions. They were the slut, not him. Last night was supposed to remain a secret, and Steve hoped the scent was just in his head, that nobody else would notice. It didn’t hurt to hope, right?

While his shower had taken longer than anticipated, Steve couldn’t be upset. The steam and heat soothed his aching muscles, cleared his mind, and left him feeling more level-headed than he had in days. It was worth running late for.

Rushing through the rest of his routine, he barely had time to glance at his reflection in the mirror. When he did, the sight that greeted him was appalling, though perhaps it shouldn’t have come as a surprise. His neck and collarbone were covered in a vast array of bite marks and hickeys, the purple and red markings standing out starkly against his pale skin. There were bruises that looked like fingerprints pressed along his hips and other markings of sex trailing down his chest and nipples.

Steve Harrington looked thoroughly fucked. There was no denying it.

Damn it.

He was going to kill Billy. What the hell had the alpha been thinking, marking him up like this? It was infuriating, and Steve hated that he had allowed it to happen, encouraged it, even. There was no way he could take his shirt off in front of anyone—not that he planned on it, but one could never be sure how things would unfold with Nancy. If she saw him like this, she would know that he had been with someone else. The scent, he could try to pass off as something else, but there was no mistaking the angry bruises that marred his skin.

It was settled. Steve was going to kill Billy.

That was the only thought racing through his mind as he rushed to blow-dry his hair. Steve worked quickly, his movements jerky and frantic, as he applied a small amount of hairspray to tame his tousled locks. The result was far from his best effort, but he doubted anyone would pay him much attention, either way. Ignoring that line of thought, Steve slipped on a clean pair of boxers and his favourite jeans before hunting for a shirt. It proved to be a greater challenge, and he had to resort to searching through his closet to find something that would hide the telltale markings on his neck. After more than a few frustrating minutes, he finally found one of his older t-shirts, one he had almost discarded because he wasn’t confident in the way it fit anymore. However, he didn’t have time to be picky and threw the shirt on. It was only when he fumbled with the fabric, struggling to ensure it didn’t cling awkwardly to his half-dried skin, that his gaze fell on a wrinkled piece of paper lying beside his alarm clock.

How had he missed that earlier?

Even though he was pressed for time, Steve couldn’t ignore his curiosity. He walked over to the table, picked up the crumpled paper, and carefully unfolded it. As he smoothed out the creases, he squinted at the messy cursive writing scrawled across it. The hastily written words seemed to blur together, and he could barely make out what was written.

Princess,

10/10 would do again.

You know where to find me next time you want to be reminded how a real alpha should treat an omega. Can think of a couple things we could get up to that I know you’d like.

Try not to get too wet thinking about me fucking your tight ass with my tongue. That’s all I’m gonna be thinking about.

- B

Steve read the note three times before crumpling it up and tossing it onto the ground.

Yeah, no.

There was no way he was going to sleep with Billy Hargrove again. It just wasn’t in the cards. They hated each other, after all. It was never going to happen.