Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Matt hated being an omega. 

Not for any social stigma or prejudice reasons per say, but the idea of having no control over his faculties during heat upset him to no end. The idea of needing to rely on an alpha for help. For being weak and a burden. 

He considered himself infinitely lucky to have found Marisha. An alpha who understood him and never made him uncomfortable. Always making sure he had some control during his cycles. It felt good for her to take care of him when it never felt right for anyone else to. Her protection and care were unique. If a random Alpha ever tried cornering him, Marisha's simple stare of daggers was usually enough to make them turn tail without escalation. She made a point to never make Matt feel like a possession, but an equal in their partnership. They were compliments to each other. Marisha's quiet understanding was what let Matt lean into her and allow himself to be hers.

He worshipped her for it. 

-----

"Matt, forgive me if I'm over stepping but … did you take your suppressants?" Taliesin asked nonchalantly, poking his head into the map room after frantic scrabbleing sounds and a 'spoilers covered, come in!' .

"Yeah? Why?" Matt asked with a furrowed brow. Nothing ever good came from that question. 

"Well... It's just..." Taliesin rubbed his neck "doesn't smell like it" 

"No, Im sure I did, I remember specifically because I dropped a pill and had to dive at Omar before he could snatch it" 

"Look man you know I've got a freak nose, even if scents don't do much for me in the first place, but you... Really oughta call your doctor or something".

Taliesin was the studio alarm as far as scents came. He passed information in the shadows. Giving alphas and omegas alike warnings for whatever was in the wind. Usually, he knew when an omega was due for heat soon before anyone else did. Or when an alpha was getting worked up about one thing or another. 

Being what's called a 'Blind Alpha', he was a fully developed alpha but was not affected by pheromones. He had to learn what scents meant by trial and error. There were general undertones he could pick up but specifics could greatly differ between people. Growing up it made him an outcast, but he considers it his super power these days. It means he has the honor and privilege of genuine trust from omegas. He gave them no reason to feel fear, there was no risk of anyone triggering the other in day to day life. It was a useful in many ways, and was a power Matt had grown to trust and cherish.

The whole office trusted him implicitly to be the intermediary. 

"Well, shit. Thanks for the heads up. I'll try and ... figure that out as soon as I can I guess" as much as Matt wants to fight on it - say that he's fine and to fuck off - Tal's nose hasn't been wrong about anything so far. 

Matt lowered his head, letting his disheveled brown hair fall over his face as a shield. Just the notion that his heat suppressants weren't doing their job made the air feel heavy, it meant that he would probably have to deal with an omega heat at some point soon. A Lot of the time someone even alluding to his omega nature put a pit in his stomach he couldn't explain. And now he has to face gong through heat again? And to call a doctor about it?? It was hard enough the first dozen times. Any check up or prescription appointment specific to his reproductive lottery winning was enough to throw him off kilter for days. Not to mention this was the first time he found a suppressant with no side effects! This is bull shit! Matt thought to himself, am I gonna have to go off them?? What if-

Noticing Matt's melancholy quickly start ramping into agitation, Taliesin steps in to give Matt a comforting squeeze to his hand before he takes his leave. 

Taliesin finds Marisha immediately in the break room kitchenette and grabs her arm. "Your mate might need you. " He starts before Marisha can even ask what's going on. " I told him he smells like his meds aren't working and I saw him immediately start to lose himself in his head. I know I can only do so much. Probably should have just told you to keep an eye on him instead. I honestly didn't even want to bring it up but. That's important info and I know he doesn't like people dancing around the topic so I just,-"

Marsha cuts his rambling off with a finger to his lips" Tal- your fine. Thank you for letting me know. I'll be right back" before she even finishes speaking she's strutting away with determination, abandoning whatever she had in the microwave in favor of going directly to where Matt said he was going to be for the next hour or so. 

"Let me know if you need me!" Taliesin called after her. 

Taliesin busies himself by texting the alphas of the cast. 

-Alpha assholes- texts

Tal: listen up asshats, this is your warning for Matt. I don't know what's exactly going on but he doesn't smell as,,, suppressed as usual. I've already talked to him and marisha. The only reason I'm telling you all in the first place is because you know how he is. Just. Make an effort to be normal and chill if things go downhill for him. 

Tal: He's our friend first and foremost. The best way to help him is to be a friend, not an alpha. Right guys?

Travis: Holy shit really? Last time he had to go through a cycle it was rough for everyone. 

Marisha: I'm with him right now. Will update l8tr

Travis: what do you take me for anyway, a sex crazed hound?? Of course I'll do everything to make sure he's comfortable. Even if that means not being in the office for a bit. 

Travis: Marish, I expect you'll tell me if I need to do anything different than standard operations? 

Marisha: * thumbs up emoji *

Liam: you know I'm more than happy to help however I can, keep me updated. 

Liam: thanks tal

-----

Matt barely registered the warmth of Taliesin's hand over his cold fingers, the brief touch a reminder of where he was before it slipped away. He wanted Tal to stay, but at the same time was feeling very misdirected anger. It's not like Taliesin is the reason for anything here. “Don't shoot the messenger and whatnot.” Still, he wanted to save Tal from any stray shots. Tal has better things to do than to shush and coo at an adult man.

The shaky breath and rapidly blurring vision started to take over Matt. His mind began rapid fire insults; “you're nothing but an omega, no one sees you as anything else”, “Marisha is going to leave you one day for a proper omega”, “you're broken. useless”

“Stop” He whispered to himself, grabbing fistfuls of his hair to try to feel anything other than whatever bullshit this was. “This is stupid, I shouldn't be crying. Nothing's even fucking happened yet.”

It didn't take long to find himself sitting on the floor with his head butt up against a table leg. Quietly whimpering. “stupid…stupid”

And that's exactly how Marsha found him. 

Not even asking before heading in, Marisha froze in shock at the mess of a man in front of her. She knew he might be upset or moody even. But this fully is not what she expected. This was bad. 

"Babe!"

Matt looked up with a weak smile, putting on a brave face. But of course, Marisha could see straight through the crumbling mask. 

Quickly jumping into action, she got on her knees and wrapped her arms tightly around her husband. Brushing light fingers through his hair and kissing away tears on his cheeks. Almost as if trying to squeeze his soul back together. 

They held like that for a few moments before Matt pulled Marisha to his lap. Now she sat facing him in his lap, legs either side of his hips. 

'm' sorry" Matt mumbled before going back in for a bear hug, tucking his nose into Marisha's neck and allowing her scent to wrap around him like a blanket. Safe, home, he thought. 

"Do you want to talk about it? Tal told me about your conversation.... I'm sorry I didn't notice."

Marisha knew she shouldn’t feel guilty, but the weight of not noticing the impossibly subtle change in scent weighed on her anyway. For all she knew, Matt was perfectly fine this morning, this could easily have just developed in the past few hours. realistically, she knew Taliesin would be the only one capable of sniffing a heat out so early. but there was still a ping of guilt for not noticing such subtle changes in her own mate.

A long moment passed with Marisha holding her boy, whispering sweet nothings and combing through his hair exactly the way he likes. 

"This is silly, I need...to finish..." Matt huffed and eyes flicked up to the table top that held a hastily covered map. 

"You can leave that here for now. Not like anyone will come in here and mess it all up " Marisha softly said. " C'mon, let's go home for tonight. Should've gone home an hour ago honestly"

Matt was torn between his need to throw himself back into his work, to distract and be productive. But it was so very hard to say no to his partner, sitting in his lap like an angel. All he really wanted was to crawl into a hole for the next month. Perhaps a bed would be a suitable alternative. 

"I dunno, I'm almost done. I'm supposed to be catching up"

"You and I know both know you're not actually behind. " Marisha pressed a gentle kiss to Matt's lips " let's go, grab your stuff"

Not in much of a mood to resist , he stands up with the help of his wife, gathers his things and they head home. 

-alpha assholes- texts

Marisha: he's not doing good. Taking him home, nothing some TLC can't handle I'm sure. Hitting a depressive episode? Doesn't fare well for Taliesin prediction 

Liam: let us know if you need anything from us. I can stop by with food or any thing. 

Sam: ditto! shoot a text and ill be there asap, I've been told to tell you Ashley has a clear schedule, text her and she can help asap!

Travis: on standby with Laura for anything ! 

Marisha: thanks guys <3

Chapter Text

The apartment was quiet when they returned, and Matt had collapsed into their bed, his body too exhausted to resist the weight of the world pressing down on him. He curled into the sheets, but it wasn’t enough. Marisha lay beside him, watching him as he closed his eyes, the enervation on his face too evident to ignore.

"Don't worry about it " Matt protested from beneath the sheets. " I'm fine I just gotta call the doctor"

" Which we will do first thing in the morning. But we do need to talk "

"It's fine, you don't need to worry about me. I'll call the doctor and then we'll fix my suppressants and it will be all fine" Matt was talking more to himself than Marisha. Trying to will that it'll be okay, but still unable to shake that dreadful pit in his stomach. 

With a shaky breath, he grabs Marisha and pulls her into their bed with a hug " please, just cuddle with me. That's how I need you most. "

Wrestling the sheets over them, Marisha obliges. Matt just needed love, even if he didn’t always believe he deserved it. She kissed the top of his head, trying to forget her own frustration on his behalf for just a moment. “I love you so much, Matthew.” 

She wrapped herself around him, burying her nose into his hair, inhaling the subtly changing scent of him. It’s not about fixing this, she thought. It’s about being here for him.

Marisha has to pretend not to see a tear roll down his face. She just makes an effort to give him all of her scent, make sure he can feel all of her body. Wrapping him in as much love as he can handle.

-----

The next few days go relatively well. It takes some extra care and love from Marisha, but the normalcy of his routine and friends helps him from focusing on any perceived impending doom. Marisha even has an oversized hoodie she wears specifically for Matt to wear on hard days she can't be around. She changes it up sometimes and wears a vest around for a day. Just so he isn't stuck in one Depression Hoodie for too long. 

Not a bad deal when she gets to wear his shirts, too. 

The alphas of the cast ask for small help here and there ,making sure Matt knows he's still useful and asking for help is not a big deal between them. 

The omegas are informed as well, and are equally helpful. Ashley, Sam, and most recently Robbie, did their due diligence in making sure Matt's scent wasn't the only omega scent at the studio. There was no real danger of anyone working at their company being an alpha dick to the slowly changing scent. But nonetheless, it usually was an extra security blanket for an omega in any kind of distress to be able to (or try to) blend in with other omegas. It keeps the smells mixed and anonymous, assuming the omegas themselves aren't directly in front of any one.

Despite Sam actually being Omega-Beta intersex, he can work some magic to play up the omega part when he needs (or wants ) to. Omega-Beta intersex individuals have varying degrees of severity and presentation but reads usually to others as omega on blockers. Or in some cases, as a beta with the scent of omega simply on them. The duality these individuals have to play with can be beneficial. Especially socially, if they chose to lean one way or the other for different occasions. 

Before Robbie had been playing more consistently with their group, it had just been Matthew and Ashley as the group omegas. While Sam usually lived his life as a beta, not really interested in the omega / alpha thing for himself, he did like to wield it for good. Such as now, when he knew it would be helpful for Matthew to know he's not alone, and are surrounded by people he loves and trust. Usually, he responded best to scents. So, while matt needed his support he would forgo his usual scent muting soaps in favor of embracing his more subtle omega nature. 

-----

" Are you sure?" Matt's voice trembled slightly as he spoke into the phone, his frustration seeping into the words. " I don't want to go back to my old suppressants, is there really nothing else on the market right now?"

"Well," the doctor on the other end of the phone began, " there is a new one that just passed the FDA approval. It's actually a patch instead of a pill. But, the long term symptoms are still under-researched, and it might be a fight for insurance -"

"No no, I want to try it.” Matts desperation cutting through his words “ God anything but the last meds. "

"Aight then, I'll send in the prescription. You might be aware but just in case, do be prepared for at least one heat cycle before everything balances back out. It's possible you'll have a second weaker one later down the line as well. I'll send some Info pamphlets to the email on file. But if you start on these within the next couple days, you should see a decrease in intensity as far as unmedicated heats go".

With a frustrated sigh, Matt tossed his phone onto the bed, feeling the familiar dread creep up his spine. "Not again..." He barely registered his own words as he buried himself under the covers, inhaling deeply, trying to drown out the overwhelming mix of emotions swirling in his mind. He just needed to hold on a little longer until Marisha came home.

-----

" Marisha I'm so fucked"

The words tumbled from Matt's lips before he could stop them, his body aching from the heat that was beginning to swell under the surface.

The redhead turned quickly, her eyes widening with concern. "What do you mean?"

" It's been four days and the pharmacy says they still don't have approval from insurance, insurance says they have no requests.." Matt paused to hold back the sob in his throat " I'm... I'm starting to get that hot, crampy feeling. I don't want to do this again".

"Oh baby come here" Marisha murmured, reaching for her husband as he rounded from behind the couch and pulled him onto her lap, hoping she could stop the storm of anxiety she could sense quickly creeping up.

"God I really don't want to" Matt's body curled instinctively into the warmth, seeking the safety of her scent. She was his home, his safety. For the moment, her relaxing aura gave him the strength to push away the beginning of desire and heat seeping from his bones.

"I know baby, I know.” Marisha's hand absently played with his hair, soothing him with her steady voice. “ We've done it before we can do it again" 

A comfortable silence took them as Matt took deep breaths, mouth slightly agape. After a while of Marisha's comforting embrace calming his racing mind, he had a thought. 

 "Can... We call Taliesin? Ask him to bring that one strain I liked last time if he still has some?" Matt’s voice was small, vulnerable. The familiar ache of needing comfort in whatever form it may be, but still struggling to gather the strength to ask. 

Marisha chuckled softly, trying to lighten the mood. " Tsk tsk using drugs to cope. Whatever shall I do with you?" She grinned, but it quickly softened as she leaned down to kiss his forehead. "Of course I’ll call him."

After a quick phone call it was only about an hour before Taliesin let himself in with a casual shout: "I'm heeerrre put your clothes back on! Or don't, I didn't care".

Matt let out a half-hearted laugh, his body still tense as he lay on Marisha’s lap. Taliesin, ever the comfort, didn’t waste time making himself at home - he plopped onto the couch, his hands reaching for Matt’s feet, lifting them into his lap with a familiar, nonchalant ease.

"Right! All Marisha told me was to bring some weed and myself for the evening, are we feeling smoking now or later? Oh! I also brought crackers and those little cheeses you like"

"God you're too good to me" Matt chuckled

Matt couldn’t help but smile at Taliesin. He was a steady presence, not treating him like a fragile doll despite the mess of emotions and physical turmoil swirling inside him. It was grounding, like the reassuring weight of someone who truly understood. He was a force equally soothing as Marisha. It was like being hugged by two warm weighted blankets, putting out the fire in his mind. 

After a few hours of weed, food, and videogames Matthew had finally passed out curled up between the two people who meant the most to him. In the new comfortable silence, Taliesin leaned towards Marisha.

"I hate seeing him like this” Taliesin whispered, flicking his gaze down towards Matt, “Ball of anxiety and self hate. "

"I'm right there with you. How long do you think till his heat hits full force?" Marisha sighs. 

"Well, I could practically smell him on your porch. If not tomorrow then I would feel confident about the day after. "

Marisha’s fingers tightened around the blanket draped across her lap - a makeshift pillow for Matt, "Is it selfish of me to like taking care of him?" she asked, her voice barely a whisper

"You know it's not Marisha. It is kind of the whole thing about alphas and omegas"

"Well... Yeah I guess. I dunno. I know he detests having to go through heat but. I do love when he gets like this. Not the mental health spiral obviously, but he just gets so clingy and sweet and it just feels good to be needed. To be constantly scented and... I just. I feel like shit about it sometimes. Like I've got some sort of hero complex. ".

"No," Taliesin replied after a thoughtful pause. "It’s not selfish. To make someone you love feel better—if that makes you feel better, too—that’s just love."

Marisha sighed, letting the words settle in her chest. "I guess you’re right."

Taliesin chuckled softly. "It’s natural. Don’t overthink it” He shifted to stretch his limbs "Moving on though, Can I crash here? No way I'm sobering up soon enough to make it to my place before I pass out”

The clash in tone of their conversation sends Marisha into a fit of laughter. 

It's then that Matt blearily opens his eyes to the beautiful sight of his wife cackling and one of his best friends in the whole world doing his best not to laugh behind his hand, but clearly failing. 

"Of course you can stay" Marisha gets out as her laughter dies down.

"Tal's staying? Yaaayyyy" Matt cheers in a soft croak, closing his eyes , falling back into his comfortable nap. 

-----

Marisha is the first one awake the next morning. So she thinks, anyway. After a few blurry minutes of reacquainting herself with the real world she notices Matthew whimpering next to her. 

"Matt? Matthew?" She gently cooed, tamping down the panic that rang through her chest at the sound. 

His response was to clumsily reach out and pull her close "stay, please" 

"Of course baby I'm not going anywhere, you don't have to worry"

The small sleepy voice coming from the taller man next to her made her heart shatter into a million pieces. This heat is going to be a lot mentally tougher than previous ones. Was it withdraw from his medication? Was it just a poorly timed heat? What can she do to fix this? 

It wasn't until she shifted herself into a more comfortable position that she felt Matt's semi through his sweatpants. 

"Matt, what do you need from me?"

"Stay"

"Yes baby, I'm here, I'm not leaving. But what else do you need?" 

There was a pause as Matt pondered. 

"I don't want to do anything else right now" 

Understood Marsha thought to herself. As much as her inner alpha wanted to respond to his need clearly growing in his pants right that moment, she knew it was best to ignore the man's gentle whimpers and accidental hip bucking. His body was desperate and feverish, but Matt was still refusing to give into the heat. Marisha was well aware why Matt didn't want to do anything about it. Matt needed as much control as he could get for now. Denying himself now, however, meant things could get infinitely more intense later. 

That dam will break eventually. 

"I'm setting a timer for 10 minutes. After that I'm going to drag you to the shower, okay? You smell" the red head playfully poked Matt's side to emphasize the lighthearted nature. 

"15" Matt chuckled

"Hmmm fine but I get to watch your hair" 

Only a content sigh was the omegas response. 

And soon enough, 15 minutes came and went in a blink

It was about as difficult to drag Matt from under the covers as it is dragging a kid out of bed in the middle of winter. Matt made no real effort to initiate his shower, so very slowly and verbally Marisha Took the charge. Making sure he had enough time to protest or decide he can do this himself. 

First, Marisha sat him on the toilet lid as she turned the water. While she waited for it to heat up, she stripped herself stark naked. 

She started undressing her husband next, making sure the mirror was starting to fog up just beforehand, keeping him faced away. She couldn't chance Matt looking at himself in this state of mind. He tried to look once, but his wife grabbed his jaw and stared through his soul. 

First was the t-shirt, then the belt. His pants and then his underwear, All were stripped with a verbal warning for each article. She purposefully payed no attention to his boxers after they were stripped, which were showing the early tell tale signs of slick beginning to accumulate.

If it were another alpha taking charge right now, Matt would be having the worst time of his life; Being yanked from any status of autonomy just because someone else decided that's what he needed. He would have fought back and jumped out a window without a care to the dangers of broken glass. But, because it's was Marisha, and because she was so full of care and genuine love not as an alpha, but as a person, he was more than okay with letting her lead. 

And so, the shower went surprisingly smooth, Marisha making sure the water was just the right temperate, tenderly washing every inch of the beautiful man before her scrubbing away grime and tense muscles. Matt was even emboldened enough to return the favor of gently massaging soap all around her back and shoulders. The warm cocoon of steam and warmth shielded them from all the anxieties of the outside world, and for a short time they were the only two existing in the world.

Soon, they must step out. Marisha has wrapped a towel around matt before he even notices his own shivering, and gently kisses him. "I love you" Leaning into the kiss, and wrapping the towel over his shoulders over both of them he depends the kiss. "I couldn't live without you, you're my everything" Matt responds.

They hold each other, taking in the moment and dreading its passing. Unfortunately, they eventually have to step away and get dressed proper, "before we catch a cold" Marisha jokes.

After their shower therapy, they both sauntered into the kitchen just in time to find Taliesin cracking eggs into a pan 

"Morning! Got some eggs going for ya! Bacon is sitting under that plate over there to keep warm"

Chapter Text

After an uneventful breakfast, They all decided it would be nice to get out of the house and get some fresh air. “It'll do us all some good,” Taliesin had suggested after Matt assured everyone he felt perfectly well enough to go out on an adventure.

And So, they found themselves at a farmers market. They enjoyed the warm sun against a cool breeze, the smell of fresh vegetables, soaps, and occasional food stalls. There was the sound of people walking, chatting, someone playing guitar amongst the crowd. Despite the new sensory sensitivity Matt was experiencing, It really was a beautiful scene to take in, especially for a man constantly looking for inspiration for his fantastical worlds he builds.

The peace was short lived, however.

Matt and Marisha were browsing a stall, waiting for Taliesin to come back from whatever shiny thing had distracted him. Matt was in the middle of admiring a particularly interesting handmade D20 when he felt the hair on the back of his neck stand up. Suddenly tense and not entirely sure why, Matt cautiously turned around. That's when he saw the source of uncomfort - an Alpha sauntering across the crowd straight for him.

It was a rather tall man with cropped blonde hair, wrapped in dark denim, sporting an air of confidence and entitlement that only the worst kind of alphas could exude.

“Well well well, what do we have here? A handsome little omega in the wild. oh-” the stranger leaned in uncomfortably close to inhale Matt's scent, nose flaring as he pulled back only slightly. “You're even ripe for the taking, aren’t you? No medicine? Al natural, I like it” the alphas' predatory gaze pierced straight into Matt. “ I bet you're already burning underneath that beautiful skin of yours”.

His face was burning, and his heart was pounding. He wanted to ignore him, or even book it the other direction, but he was unfortunately glued to the spot. Suddenly, all of his senses were on edge and the world was pressing into him as he tried to hide his panic. “E-excuse me?”

The alpha leaned in closer to whisper “you can't hide it. You need an alpha to take you don't you?”

A sharp jolt of shame and disgust coursed through Matt as his body betrayed him, his scent shifting in subtle ways he couldn’t control. His skin felt too hot, his pulse roaring in his ears. No, no, no. This can’t be happening.

“I-" Matt tried to speak, but his voice cracked.

Before he could find a way to respond, Marisha took notice and boldly pushed through and moved herself between Matt and the stranger  “Did you need something?” her voice strained and commanding. The swirl of shame and terror continued to boil in Matt's stomach in ways that made him want to tear his skin off.

“Oh and I thought I had gotten lucky with a lone omega, but I guess he's got this-” the stranger sniffed and looked Marisha up and down “pathetic excuse of an Alpha with him.” 

“Walk away” Marisha almost growled.

“Or what? You'll snarl at me? Try to hit me?” turning his gaze from Marisha and onto Matt as if bored by her, he continued “I'm much more interested in you, anyway. I can tell, you've got a heat crawling under your skin. If your cute little alpha here cant take of you, I would be more than happy to show you what a real alpha can do”

Finally finding the will to rip himself out of paralysis, Matt couldn't help but fight back. With a voice trembling more than he expected, he barks, “Hey, back off man. She's twice the alpha you could ever hope to be”.

“Oh, it speaks. Maybe a mouthy omega like yourself needs to be put in place”

“What the fuck did you say-” before Matt could finish his sentence, he was being yanked by the collar. Suddenly, he was face to face with the creep - one hand tight on his collar and the other squeezing his wrist with a bruising force. The alpha made a obscene show of growling and sniffing Matt, intentionally irritating Marisha. “You smell so sweet, you know that? I bet you could make even sweeter sounds”.

“Matt!” The redhead dashed forward to try and free the man, but the assailant twisted, using Matt's body to block her from getting near.

Nausea was starting to weaken Matt's resolve. The slightest wave of his own pheromones betraying him, he could tell it was some mixture of arousal and fear swirling around them now. Tears started welling in his blue eyes. I don't want this -I don't want this, what's happening-

“See? You chose the wrong alpha. She can't even protect you from another Alpha laying hands on you.”

“Maybe, she just doesn't want to commit murder in broad daylight,” Matt huffed, struggling to wiggle out of the iron grip. Tears continued threatening the edges of his vision now. 

That apparently, was the wrong move. The creep, with fury in his eyes, dropped Matt's hand and yanked his hair, forcing him to stare upwards. “ Big words for a little man. Y'know, I could just take you. Right here in the middle of the market and-”

“Let him go”  a familiar voice cut through the air. Icey and dripping with rage.

Matt could see over his assailant's shoulder, it was Taliesin.

The alpha paused, loosening his grip and turning around. “and who the fuck are you then? This isn't your omega so it’s none of your concern”.

With an unwavering expression, Taliesin responded harshly, “I would beg to differ. Now leave my friends here alone or you will regret it.

The addition of Taliesin, the alpha was becoming outnumbered. His confidence wavered as he looked between the two.

Striking at the opportunity, Marisha lunged forward and in one smooth motion, unhooked Matt from the stranger, and twisted his arm behind him. For good measure, Taliesin managed to casually kick the back of his knees which sent him straight to the ground. Marisha leaned in close, twisting his arm further until she heard his sharp cry, “This is your last chance. Leave, or we can make this conversation much bloodier than it needs to be”.

Emphasizing her point with a shove, Marisha stood back up and glared down at the man now on the ground. “Fuck all of you, you freaks. Two fucked up alphas? You are a weak and greedy bitch aren't you” he scrambled up and with little coordination pushed his way back into the crowd.

Immediately, Marisha and Taliesin were by Matt's side,  hugging him tightly, checking over him for injury. “Are you okay matt? God I should have seen that coming” Marisha muttered.

“Im-I'm fine. That was uhm, kinda intense I guess "Matt responded, in a daze.

“You guess? Kinda? Jesus Matt “ Taliesin tried to lighten the mood with a soft chuckle, though his face remained serious.

Matt reached out to touch Taliesin's chest, and smooth Marisha's hair, hoping to anchor himself. As he blinked away tears, he realized his left wrist was bruised and his hands were shaking. It suddenly felt like he couldn't take in a full breath, remnants of panic resurfaced again as Matt froze in place.

“Alright Matty, let's head back to the car” Taliesin wrapped his arm around the man and led him out of the market, with Marisha holding his hand tightly.

Matt wanted to argue, to tell them he just needed a minute - he doesn't want to be the reason they cut the trip short. But words wouldn't come out. He was at the whim of the world at this point.

The walk to the car passed in a blur. Matt’s legs carried him forward, but the rest of him felt disconnected, like he was watching himself from a distance. The buzzing in his head grew louder with each step, drowning out the murmur of the crowd and the soothing words Marisha and Taliesin whispered to him. By the time they reached the car, he felt like his bones were made of lead, like his chest was full of iron.

Taliesin led Matt into the backseat while Marisha started the car. “Were safe, you're safe matt” Taliesin comforted in a low and smooth tone. “Breath with me”

Matt nodded and tried to follow Taliesin's lead, taking deep breaths. His first few attempts were rocky, being thwarted by sobs. Taliesin brought Matt's hand up to his chest, “you're doing great, a few  more. Feel my breaths”. True to his word, a few more deep breaths after Matt had regained control of his own lungs,  Tal took him into a crushing hug. The pressure of it, the feeling of Taliesin's scruff on his cheek and the familiar scent connected him mostly back to his own body.

“Relax your body Matthew” the same smooth tone from Taliesin prompted Matt to notice his body. His whole body was wound tight, his fingernails were digging into his jeans. He could feel wetness on his cheeks and a tightness in his chest. The forming bruise on his wrist throbbed in time with his heartbeat.

“Matt” Marisha was turned around from the driver's seat, hand reaching to rest on his knee “ are you okay?”

He blinked at her, his throat working as he tried to find words. But the weight of everything was still there, pressing down hard enough to glue his mouth shut. His lips parted, but all that came out was a quiet, pitiful whimper that made his stomach churn. He squeezed his eyes shut, shaking his head in frustration.

“Matty,” Taliesin murmured, his hand tightening slightly over Matt’s own. “It’s okay. You don’t have to say anything yet. We’re here. You’re safe.”

The warmth of Taliesin’s words, the gentle press of Marisha’s hand—it all made the shame rise up even faster. Matt’s mind was a cacophony of anger and self-loathing. They’re going to hate me. They’ll think I wanted it. They’ll think less of me.

Finally, the words clawed their way out, broken and fragile. “I-I couldn’t stop it…”

Marisha frowned, leaning closer. “Stop what?”

“My body,” Matt stammered, curling in on himself. He couldn’t meet their eyes. The shame was too much, searing hot and unbearable. “He… he was right. My body reacted to him.”

The admission hung heavy in the air, and Matt couldn’t stop the sob that tore its way out of his throat. It was ugly and raw, the kind of crying that made his whole body ache, and he buried his face in his hands, desperate to disappear.

“Oh, Matt,” Marisha whispered, her voice breaking as she climbed into the backseat. She wrapped him in her arms, squeezing tight as if she could physically hold him together. “No, baby. That wasn’t you.”

Taliesin leaned in closer, his voice low and steady. “Your body isn’t a reflection of your will. It reacts to what it’s designed to. That asshole? He was doing everything he could to exploit it. That doesn’t mean anything about you. You bleed when you are cut - but not because you want to bleed, or because you tell it to, it just does. Same thing”

“But you could smell it,” Matt choked out, his voice muffled against his hands. “You know. How can you not-” He cut himself off, shaking his head violently. “I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.”

“Matt, stop,” Marisha said, her tone firmer now as she gently pried his hands away from his face. “You don’t owe us an apology. Not for that. Not ever.”

“We know you,” Taliesin added, his hand resting on the back of Matt’s neck, grounding him with just the right amount of pressure. “None of this changes anything. We’re yours, matt. No one else gets a say in that. Even if they try to pry you from our reach, We are yours”.

The words sank in slowly, breaking through the tangled mess in his head. The sobs slowed, though tears still streaked his cheeks, and he let himself lean heavily into their embrace. The weight of his alphas, their voices, their touch - it was enough to pull him fully back to himself.

“I… I don’t know what I’d do without you,” he murmured, his voice hoarse.

Marisha kissed his temple, her hand stroking his hair. “Well, lucky for you, you’ll never have to find out.”

Taliesin chuckled softly, a sound so warm it almost made Matt smile. “Let’s get you home, yeah? I’ll make us some tea.”

Matt nodded, his chest still heavy but no longer suffocating. For the first time since the encounter, he felt the smallest flicker of peace—a reminder that he didn't have to be alone, He wasn't alone.

Chapter Text

Entering the warmth of their apartment, Matt trudged to the couch and collapsed face first into it. Taliesin , true to his word, went straight to the kitchen to put on some tea. Marisha however, lingered in the living room, chewing at her nails and pacing. She felt just as tense as Matt still looked - replaying the events of just an hour before in her mind. She should have seen that Alpha approaching, He deserved to be socked in the face. Though, the words of Matt echoed in her head, “Maybe, she just doesn't want to commit murder in broad daylight”  It wasn't untrue - and it was a relief to know Matt understood. While her nature demanded she go feral and start throwing punches, that sort of escalation would only end up making everything worse. But it didn't stop her from mulling over every possible daydream she's ever had about being the Monk Beau is and whipping his ass. She also kind of wished she was as stone cold and effective as Taliesin seemed to have been.

“Let's invite everyone over” Matt cut through her run-away thoughts.

“Really? I thought you would want some, like, chill time?” Marisha said with confusion.

“I dunno, It sounds nice to have everyone over. I think… It would just be nice to be surrounded by family and familiarity after all that bullshit. We can't stew in it forever, can we?” Matt halfheartedly chuckled. “Besides, tonight is probably the last night I can see them in person before things… escalate”

“Well, if you're sure then I have no problems with it. I'll go ahead and send out a text, But promise you'll leave if you need to, or let me know if its to much activity - I can kick 'em out any point” Pulling out her phone, Marisha moved to lay directly over Matt's body, resting her chin on the back of his shoulder. She could practically feel Matt's muscles relax with the added weight.

“Ohh cuddle pile?” Taliesin appeared from the kitchen with steaming mugs. “Let me in, too!”
Marisha scooted over and allowed Taliesin to crawl onto Matt, so they were both on top of him, but also sorta staggered on each other. “God I love being crushed” Matt mentioned as he let his body relax fully. “Change of plans, let just stay like this for the next week”

“Too bad, already texted everyone”

Dramatically with a huff, matt responded “Oh fine, I guess I'll need to pee eventually anyway”

---

And so, later that night the whole gang came around. They all brought some food and drinks, and someone brought a new card game for them to try out.

Things were going surprisingly well. Everyone was  circling their small coffee table, snacking and drinking, bickering about rules or having idle side conversions. The whole place filled with warmth and comfort now that Matt's closest friends were near. Despite the adrenalin of earlier that day, the surrounding sounds and smells of his family was enough to soothe him over again, regaining a sense of security and safety. He could ignore the pulsing of his bruised wrist, and staved away the fog that kept threatening to take over.

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end.

A few hours into the night, Matt began to notice the way his clothes clung to him too tightly, he suddenly was way too hot, and he could feel a cramp in his abdomen begin to claw at him from the inside. Marisha had had her arm linked with his, rubbing occasional patterns over his forearm. She seemed to clock Matt's growing uncomfort before he realized what was going on himself.

“Matt,” she whispered, “Doing alright?”

“Yeah I'm good,” Matt responded with a soft smile. “Just getting kinda hot in here I suppose”

Marisha leaned in with a playful shove to his shoulder “Let me know if you need to step away, okay?”

Marisha caught Taliesin's eyes. The man's stormy eyes locked on matt with intensity - flicked over to Marisha. He raised an eyebrow and nodded his head to the omega, as if asking “everything alright?” Without a solid answer to give, she looked back at Matt. That's when she noticed a spike, a small wave of heat-scent emanating from Matthew - A call to his alpha. The sweet smell of her lover had her own body suddenly feeling overheated, she was more than suddenly aware of Matt's every movement next to her.

“You should probably take a breather, we can go to the bedroom for a minute” she whispered in his ear.
Before Matt could respond, his ears quirked up and body tensed at Travis' voice across the room. “I smell it,” Travis muttered under his breath, his gaze darting toward Matt. “He’s spiking.”

Laura squeezed his arm, her touch grounding. “And you’re going to stay calm,” she said firmly. “Marisha and Taliesin are handling it.”

Travis opened his mouth to argue but stopped when Laura arched a brow. Her steady gaze softened his tension, and he exhaled heavily, nodding. “Yeah. Okay. Sorry,” he muttered, sitting back but keeping a wary eye on the situation.

Pretending to not have heard the sidebar and ignoring anything else, Matt just dove his attention back into the card game at hand. Hiding behind his cards and concern over whose turn it was. His purposeful ignorance did little to hide his further heat induced spiral, no matter how much he ignored his aching back and the wet feeling of slick threatening his absorbent boxers.

“Matt,” Marisha said more firmly this time.

“I’m fine,” he insisted again, though his voice cracked.

“You’re not,” Taliesin interjected gently, scooting closer to Matt’s side. “And that’s okay. But you need to let us help.”

“I don’t want to ruin this,” Matt whispered with frustration and shame. “We just started this round, and I-”

“You’re not ruining anything,” Marisha interrupted, her tone leaving no room for argument. “But we need to take care of you. Let’s go to the bedroom, yeah?”

Before Matt could protest, a quiet but firm voice cut through the tension. “Marisha’s right.”

Everyone turned to see Ashley nonchalantly looking at her cards, placing one in the center pile. “We're fine out here, go take a break. We're here to support you and not be entertained as guests. Go” Everyone around them nodded and gave some variation of agreement.

Matt’s resolve finally cracked. He gave a shaky nod, allowing Marisha to help him up. Taliesin placed a steadying hand on his back as they quietly guided him down the hall to the bedroom.

As the door clicked shut behind them, Laura turned to the rest of the group. “Alright,” she said with a clap of her hands. “Let’s not make this a thing. Give them space. Who’s ready for another round of that card game?”
Travis let out a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding, relaxing slightly under Laura’s steady influence. “Thanks,” he muttered, wrapping an arm around her shoulders.

“Anytime,” she said with a small smile. “Now, focus. I’m not letting you win this round.”

In the bedroom, Marisha and Taliesin helped Matt ease onto the bed. Marisha brushed his hair back, her touch tender but confident. “We’ve got you,” she murmured. “Just breathe. Let us help.”

Matt swallowed hard, his chest rising and falling with uneven breaths. Alone with two alphas - his resolve was crumbling quickly. The cramping in his abdomen became too much, the need he could feel was about to break his dam.

Taliesin took initiative to throw some extra pillows on the sides of the bed, he left at some point and returned to leave water on their bed side table. "Matt, do you want me to stay, or go?”

What an impossible decision, Matt thought to himself. He furrowed his eyebrows in frustration as another wave of his heat forced its way down his spine.

“How about this, I'll go back out there and you don't have to worry about anything - I'll take care of our pack out there. You stay here with Marisha and be a good boy for her, how does that sound?” Taliesin's soothing voice drew over mats mind, it did sound like a good plan. Taliesin accepted Matt's small nod as an answer, and went in for a deep kiss. Matt's breath hitched and he reached up to Taliesin's cheek as he drew the older man closer. Before he crossed the point of no return, Taliesin drew back. “Focus on Marisha, dearest, I'll be back for you soon enough.” and with that promise, he quietly made his exit back into the chaos and laughter of their friends.

As soon as Taliesin made his leave, Marisha took his place and rolled on top of her omega, replacing his warmth with hers on Matt's lips. He let out low moans and whimpers as Marisha moved her hands expertly all over his body. First his face, then smoothly over his pecs, down his sides, just at the button of his jeans-

“What do you want from me, Matthew?” the alpha purred into his ear.

It was all becoming too much. Taliesin's kiss jump started his brain. The voices of his friends began to fade away under the intensity of marisha. He had been staving off his heat as long as he could. But the heat of his mate was quickly peeling back every layer of resolve he had. 

“I-I think…touch me” he pleaded with a tremble to his voice. “I need you”

“You’ve got me”, she got to work undressing them both. Carefully and lovingly she removed each layer of Matt's clothes, letting her kisses burn his skin and letting her tongue leave electrifying trails. She smoothed her hands down his shoulders, fingertips lightly tracing his forearms. When her finger found their landing at his wrists, the relaxation she had carefully cultivated in her partner vanished as he pulled his left wrist away from her grasp “Don’t-” he said without thinking, pure reaction.

“S-sorry” she responded, removing her own hands just as quickly.

Feeling immediate guilt, and remnants of shame from earlier in the day he quickly responded “no! Sorry no That was just - I forgot about that and then the bruise and -”

“Shh” the redhead soothed with an expert kiss to his lips “how about, I make that bruise mine?”

“What do you mean ‘yours’?” 

Without verbally responding, she slowly took the bruised wrist up to her mouth and dragged an agonizing tongue gently across his inner wrist. First just above the bruise, then just below, eventually using the flat of her tongue along the length of it. Taking her time savoring his pale skin, she soon took the pulse of his wrist into a sucking kiss. It only took a few moments for a stunning hickey to form.

Matt stared at her with stars in his eyes watching her warm hands and mouth work magic. “Marish” he whined in a barely audible tone. 

“There, now you'll look at it and see me” Marisha's Alpha instincts to lay claim on her mate now being allowed to slip through the cracks, she could steer it into the best direction. Instead of shrinking away from it, Matt responded with an eager kiss to her neck. Following a similar pattern, he kissed at first gently, but quickly ramped into hunger as he got a lung full of Marisha's own scent flared with arousal. Still on top of him, she pulled gently at his hair as he worked diligently at all the most tender parts of her neck. 

Matt moved his hands all across her body, unhooking her bra and clumsily running his hands under her underwear and smoothing over her ass. Pulling apart for a breath, they both feverishly stripped their remaining clothes and dove back in for more. 

Matt was now sitting up, back resting against the beds headboard and Marisha was sitting in his lap, rocking her alpha length across his smaller omega one. She took her hand and moved it up and down both of themselves, allowing herself to admire the sight. Matt's moaning and labored breathing only added to the fire in her.

Having starved his body of it's needs, It took no time at all for Matt to finish across Marisha's fist, huffing and tearing up as the pent up frustration started to ebb away. For only a moment he felt satisfied, before his heat slammed back into him. His while body flooded with fresh sweat and lit his nerves in fire. his softening cock growing hard  before Marisha had even removed her hand. With a frustration he cried “Marisha please, more, fuck-”

“More, what? Tell me what you need” Marisha whispered into his ear. 

“Fuck me! Jesus Marisha take me, knot me, fill me” matt responded louder than he anticipated, his voice cracking. Normally he would have been more aware of the fact that there were 6 other people in their living room at that moment, but the coil in his stomach and heat-need overrode any care. They were his friends anyway, they'll understand. He has only one pressing matter at the front of his mind. 

Marisha sat up and pulled Matt down the bed so he was laying flat with his legs hanging off the end. She took her alpha cock and teased at the entrance of Matt, taking great joy in his frustrated hip movements and whimpers “M-marish- fu-ck” .He was dripping slick and easily accepted the girth of his alpha. The emptiness he felt finally being filled. “Such a good boy, you can take all of me already? 

Matt groaned in response, moving his hips to try to get some friction like a wild animal. Marisha took no time to get the hint and began moving in and out, agonizing and slow at first. Each thrust was rewarded by the beautiful man's soft moans and uneven breath. “If you don't fuck me harder right now I swear to God” Matt complained while moving his hips to try quicken the pace. 

“Or you'll what?” Marisha teased, fully not ready for Matt's unexpected move.

Matt wrapped his legs and arms around Marisha, pulling her close and rolling over with surprising speed. Before she knew it, Matt was on top and unabashedly grinding himself on her cock. He rocked back and forth, holding himself up with hands splayed across Marisha's ribs. Matt's own cock bounced obscenely between them as he took her. Fully inside of him, Marisha moaned in surprise and encouraged him further, grabbing his ass and moving her hips to his rhythm. “God you keep going Matt- you'll have my knot soon enough ah-” Matt's body responded, tightening around her cock which in turn made Marisha moan mid sentence “-take my knot, it's yours, take me” she continued

It was empowering to be the one holding the alpha down. He did what was asked of him and rode Marisha like his life depended on it. As if it was the only thing in the world. He kept going until he could finally feel Marisha's knot building at her base. Making extra effort to work the knot into himself, Matt collapsed his top half over Marisha - forearms now either side of her and being brought back into a passionate kiss. She could feel Matt's movements through the sloppy kiss - mouths clumsy, teeth clashing, tongues dancing. She could feel his messy brown hair tickling the edges of her cheeks and is cock rubbing between their stomachs.

It wasn't long after that Marisha lifted her feet to support herself, raising her hips up and forcing Matt upwards as she began slamming into him from her position still under him. Matt whimpered and cried as every nerve in his body lit on fire, each thrust from Marisha filling him more and more. The obscene sound of too much slick in-between their bodies heightened their own primal drive to fuck. 

“M-Marisha-a fuck, fill me” matt cried in between whines of pleasure. He hunched down further to Marisha's neck and took the tender flesh into his mouth, biting as his pleasure boiled over. He came all over Marisha - transparent and thin white ropes decorating the space between them. His legs shook and all he could feel was the white hot intensity of his orgasm. Feeling her omega find his release on her knot, squeezing and pulsing her cock, She followed quickly. She came with a final few thrusts into Matt's hole, making sure he took all of her - everything she had to fill him with.

As they both came down, still laying limply across each other, Marisha mumbled sweet nothings and brushing his sweat soaked hair. Kissing him on his forehead and trying not to focus on her knot still pulsing inside of him or the way his own body kept twitching in response to he movement.

“Better?” Marisha whispered after some time catching their breaths.

Matt lifted his head to head to look directly at her. Tears were streaming down his flushed cheeks. Sparkling blue eyes wide and lip quivering ever so slightly. "Sorry” he managed to choke out, wiping a tear from his face “I-I shouldn't be crying. Why am I crying?”. His body trembled while he keep back the sobs that tried fighting their way to the surface to escape with the confession.

“Oh babe, no don't be sorry, It's okay. You’ve had a rough few days. It's okay, I’ve got you” The redhead pulled the taller man into a tight embrace, eventually pulling blankets and pillows around their bodies as best she could while still attached to him;  Making sure her makeshift nest was tucked up around them, and matt could find a way to lay comfortably on his side instead of directly on top of her.

Accepting the new comfort of added blankets and the tender, genuine voice of Marisha, Matt clung to her and let himself weep. “God- I don't deserve you.” Matt's voice hushed and broken, still clinging to Marisha as if she would float away from his grasp.

“Stop that- you deserve the world. You deserve all the love and care I can give you and then some. You are mine and I am yours. I can and will support you in whatever way you need it, just as you’d do for me.” Marisha's gentle voice took on a playfully stern tone - soothing lazy circles on Matt's back as she spoke. “And I won't hear anything otherwise”

A faint, wobbly smile broke through Matt’s tears, and he exhaled shakily. “Thank you,” he whispered. “For everything.”

“Always,” she promised, brushing her thumb across his cheek.

Chapter Text

The door clicked softly behind Taliesin, sealing away the muffled sounds of Marisha and Matt inside. For a moment, he just stood there, his hand resting on the doorknob. The lingering scent of Matt’s heat clung to his skin, faint but unmistakable, stirring something restless in his chest. Normally, Taliesin prided himself on being steady, unaffected. But tonight was different. Too much had happened in one day—too much vulnerability, too many emotions—and it was all sticking to him like a layer of grime he couldn't wash off.

He finally turned toward the living room, his movements slower than usual, deliberate. The others looked up as he approached: Travis, leaning against the back of the couch with his arms crossed; Laura perched on the armrest beside him, her expression unreadable but calm; Liam scrolling on his phone with a faux air of disinterest; Ashley and Sam whispering in low tones.

“Everything okay in there?” Travis asked, his deep voice laced with concern.

“Yeah, Marisha’s got him, Heats definitely hitting way harder than it should be,” Taliesin replied, his tone deliberately casual as he moved to the couch. “He’s still worried about all of you, though. Thinks he ruined the night.”

Sam let out a sharp laugh. “Of course he does. Matt could be literally on fire, and he’d still be apologizing for it.”

“Classic Matt,” Ashley murmured, shaking her head.

Taliesin chuckled faintly, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes. He sank onto the couch, resting his elbows on his knees and rubbing his temples. His mind felt foggy. The tension in his chest hadn’t eased since he stepped out of the bedroom; if anything, it was worse now, amplified by the pack’s quiet energy around him.

“Tal?” Laura’s voice broke the silence, gentley. “Are you okay?”

“I’m fine,” he said automatically, but the words felt hollow. He ran a hand through his hair, exhaling sharply. “It’s just... tonight. It’s a lot.”

Travis straightened, his gaze sharpening. “This about earlier? The alpha at the market?”

Taliesin hesitated, his jaw tightening. “Maybe. It’s not just that, though.” He paused, his voice dropping lower. “It’s Matt. Seeing him like that—vulnerable, scared—it’s hitting me harder than I expected. And now, with the heat on top of everything...” He trailed off, shaking his head. “I feel... protective, I guess. I don’t know what to do with that.”

“You’re not used to feeling that way,” Liam said quietly, looking up from his phone.

“No,” Taliesin admitted, his lips quirking into a humorless smile. “Not like this at least. I’m usually the guy on the sidelines, the one who keeps his head. But tonight, it’s like... everything’s louder. Closer. I keep thinking about how easy it would’ve been for that bastard to hurt him worse, or—” He stopped himself, the thought too sharp to finish.

“You’ve been around enough alphas to know what it means to care like this,” Laura said, her tone steady. “It’s instinct, sure, but it’s also Matt. He’s part of your pack.”

“Yeah, well,” Taliesin muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. “Instinct isn’t exactly my strong suit.”

“You’re selling yourself short,” Ashley said firmly. “You stepped up today. You helped. It's natural to protect people you care about. I think you're a natural. You're just feeling instincts blowing in from a different direction.”

The weight of her words settled over Taliesin, but the tension in his chest didn’t fully dissipate. He leaned back against the couch, closing his eyes. The scent of Matt’s heat still clung to him, subtle but persistent, like an itch he couldn’t scratch. It wasn’t overwhelming—not like it might’ve been for a more instinct-driven alpha—but it was enough to remind him that he wasn’t immune to the pull fully in the way he thought he was. He's known these people - Matt- for decades. What's going on now?

“You okay?” Travis repeated, his voice softer now.

“Yeah,” Taliesin replied, though his voice was tinged with weariness. “Just... need a minute.”

Laura stood and crossed to him, her touch deliberate as she rested a hand on his shoulder. “Take all the time you need,” she said simply.

Across the room, Liam glanced at his phone, breaking the moment with a wry comment. “Well, at least we know Matt’s still Matt. Worrying about everyone else while he’s half-dead in there.”

Taliesin let out a soft laugh despite himself, Matt was safe, and Marisha was with him. For now, that was enough.

“Y'know” Travis spoke up with his low voice “Instincts are hard to wrap your head around. Being blind to the effects of pheromones and shit usually doesn't mean you don't have them hidden away somewhere. You are still an alpha after all. Maybe you don't react or feel what most alphas feel in general but I think, Maybe being so close to Matt and with everything that's been happening with him- that's probably what's drawing those feelings out.”

Taliesin listened carefully, relaxing back into the couch as Travis talked. “That's….Not a bad theory actually. Damn, specialists told me growing up I would be effectively a beta with Alpha anatomy. I've never really considered that I could be… alpha-y. Hell, kids always picked on me because of what a sad excuse of an alpha I was.  Everyone assumed I was broken and acted like there was a deeper part to living I was missing out on” Taliesin rubbed his shaky hands over his newly tear stained face as he spoke, unpleasant memories clawing their way back up while he rattled on.

Travis leaned forward with intention, voice steady and direct, “whoever said all that had no idea what they were walking about. Being an alpha, hell being a person, isnt about claiming and scenting and fucking or whatever. It's nice I guess but really, It's about caring in whatever way that means to you. I think whatever is happening here means something deeper than whatever pricks poked fun at you experience. You are deliberate and youve never let instincts control you - now isn't any different.”

Sighing, staring up at the ceiling, Tal paused to let Travis words permeate his brain. Maybe this wasn’t some late life alpha presentation swinging in to fuck up his sense of self, maybe it was just a facet of himself letting itself be known because it was matt. “I guess... I never thought of instincts as something I could grow into,” Taliesin said slowly. “Like, maybe it’s not about reacting to every scent or situation but finding the ones that matter. The ones that feel... right.”

Clapping a hand to his shoulder, Travis responded with a smile, “Couldn't have put that better myself man”.

Ashley, who had been quietly listening from her perch on the armrest, chimed in. “It’s kind of beautiful, actually,” she said, her voice soft. “The way you connect with people, Tal. It’s not about pheromones or heat or any of the usual stuff. It’s just... you. You see people for who they are, and that’s why they trust you. Why Matt trusts you.You are feeling new things but trust me, you're still you.”

Taliesin felt his throat tighten, his usual wit momentarily failing him. He looked between Travis and Ashley, the quiet support in their expressions comforting him.

“Thanks,” he said finally, his voice rough with emotion. “I needed to hear that.”

Travis clapped a heavy hand on Taliesin’s shoulder, a grin breaking through his usual stoicism. “Anytime, man. That’s what pack’s for.”

-----

Taliesin was picking up after the get together, everyone had left not too long ago leaving just himself, Matt, and marisha in the apartment. He hadn't wanted to interrupt whatever was going on behind that door. Instead, he busied himself with picking up cups, doing dishes, and general tidying. His thoughts lingered on the heat scent of matt that was faintly permeating the place. Tal reflected idly on how he was feeling, when a spike in the scent made him pause mid step. The faint scent of Matt was suddenly replaced with distress. It froze taliesin for a moment as the change set his own senses on edge - as if trying to to detect danger. Another wave found its way to his nose, affirming he wasn't imagining it, and he shook himself from his spot in the living room- dashing for the master bedroom.

Not even thinking to knock, Tal quickly turned the cold doorknob and urgently stepped inside. The thick air of heat hit him immediately. There, He saw Matt curled up in  Marishas lap. He was mumbling, sweating, and clearly irritable. Marisha was smoothing over his hair and rocking gently.  Matt shifted, acknowledging the new presence in the room. “Tal…Please” he mumbled with lidded eyes.

Locking eyes with Marisha, who nodded and waved him over with purpose, he quickly strutted over and sat next to Matt. “I can't get him to settle” Marisha’s own scent was tense, her alpha instincts clearly on edge - frazzled and desperate. The crease in her brow and genuine worry in her eyes set alarm bells off in the back of Taliesin's head. 

The cool hands of Taliesin found their way to the back of Matt's Neck. The omega leaned into it with a whine. Tal continued his hands gently massaging points of tension along his neck, shoulders, combing fingers through his hair. “I'm here, we're here” he cooed. He made an effort to scent the omega, rubbing his steady and calming pheromones onto Matt. All the while Marisha continued whispering comforting words and giving gentle kisses.

Matt's body was clearly fighting itself. He was feverish and couldn't seem to get comfortable. His muscles were tight and his breath was uneven.

”If we can't help him, we might need to head to an urgent care” marisha mumbled out loud, eyes sharp on her husband but flicking her eyes to make contact with Taliesin's equally concerned face. 

Taliesin and Marisha together worked slowly and deliberately- eventually able to get Matt to come down from his overwhelming heat wave. A cold towel was placed on Matt's forehead, gentle music was put on in the background. They were making progress. Tals calm and steady presence mixed with Marishas determined and caring presence worked to their advantage.

“I..Need more” Matt eventually asked, voice hoarse and quiet. Every touch on his skin was too much and not quite enough. He was sticky with sweat and his muscles felt like he had just run a race. 

“More what?” Taliesin lowered his voice in the omegas ear, earning a writhing moan.

“Tal, Please, fu-ck me”

Taliesin being involved with Matt and Marisha was nothing new - helping with heats, ruts, and just for fun was easy. But Taliesin's newfound alpha instincts peaking through was a new complication. “Are you sure, Matt?  I want to help you but -tonights been.. My alpha instincts are kind of much more…they are louder than usual. I don't want to accidentally ruin this - or hurt you.”

Matt pulled himself from Marisha and took Taliesin in a deep kiss. His arms wrapped tightly around his neck, and Tal found his hands slithering around Matt's waist without second thought. “I trust you, I trust marisha, My alpha’s” Matt's words dripped from his mouth like honey, still in the shared breath of their kiss. Glancing at Marisha - who was smiling and gave him a thumbs up, was courage enough to allow himself this. If Matt and marisha trusted him, he would have to trust himself as well. 

Taliesin kissed Matt back with twice the need and want. He let himself desire Matt in a way he's never felt before.  Matt responded with just as much eagerness.

It was really just now dawning on taliesin that Matt was naked; it was very clear how much arousal was surging through him. While Taliesin tasted his mouth, his neck, his shoulders and allowed his hands to pull slightly at his hair, Marisha’s hand found its way straight to Matt's need. Her fingers easily slipped right inside, finding their way straight to his sweet spot. Matt moaned with fervor as her deft hands worked. At first just two fingers, but very quickly able to accommodate more. Obscene sounds of his slick dripping core being fingered replaced the music in the background with the sweet sound of sex. Tal took the opportunity to run his hand teasingly over the head of the omegas cock “you look so beautiful like this” his gravelly voice whispered “falling apart under our touch.” Matt's hips bucked and whimpers escaped from his throat as expert hands set his nerves on fire. 

Taliesin’s other hand continued to dance around Matt's body, finding its way to Matt’s hip, steady but tentative. The slight pressure was enough to make Matt exhale sharply, the sound caught somewhere between relief and anticipation.

Clumsily, Matt reached for Taliesin's belt desperately trying to gain access to tal's own growing cock. As much as he didn't want to stop what he was doing, he got the hint. Pulling away, he fumbled with his clothes. Marisha circled around the bed and helped tal strip, stealing kisses and lingering touches, making sure to find eye contact with Matt. He watched on with stars in his eyes. 

Taliesin responded hesitant at first, but Marisha's natural lead was easy to follow. Her silky skin against his was near mesmerizing. Marisha’s unhurried grace made quick work of Taliesin's clothes. The alpha man found his hands at her waist as she continued electric kisses across the pattern of hair that dappled his chest. 

Matt was transfixed on the site before him. The way Marisha gave and took deep kisses, her body pressing perfectly against the curve of the other alphas body. His throat was dry and his limbs felt heavy. Part of him felt like he should look away to give them privacy, but the other much louder part of him refused to tear himself away from the heavenly sight in front of him. He was momentarily distracted from his own need, only for Marisha's sharp eyes to draw it right back up to the surface. 

He couldn't take it anymore, Matt took his own cock in his hands and rubbed up and down his length. The faint hum of Marisha, the rumbling response of Taliesin was too much. He could feel warmth spreading through his whole body , emanating from his cheeks into his chest, eventually breaking into a cold sweat as he continued to drink in the site in front of him and work desperately  at his own cock. 

The alphas looked at Matt hungrily and slunk across the bed right back to the omegas side as he continued to pump and twist himself, following their movements with unblinking awe. 

Marisha stilled his hand where it worked, and pulled his hand away from its ministrations. “Fu-uuk” Matt complained with a gasping breath filled with frustration interrupted. 

“Shh.. you said you trust us, didn't you?” Marisha mewled in his ear. Matt only nodded meekly as he surrendered his hand to her. 

“Tal, kiss please. Give him a matching mark right next to mine, here-” Marisha raised the bruised wrist and pointed to the hickey she left not too long ago. “That bruise is ours”

Not entirely sure what he was feeling anymore, the omega allowed himself to watch and eagerly await the promised mark. He leaned forward himself to help Taliesin's access.

 “What a beautiful idea,” Taliesin remarked with genuine affection in his voice.  

He moved so that he was straddling Matt's thigh, hovering, still upright in his knees. He leaned his body close up to Matt and gingerly took his hand up to his mouth. With expertise, he rubbed his scruff delicately across the sensitive skin and leaned his hips so his own thigh was now pressed right up against Matt's erection. The omega let out an involuntary, strangled sound from the back of his throat as Taliesin took his arm. 

With the grace and hunger of a vampire, Taliesin began to suck at the delicate flesh. First a gentle suction, but then added a tongue flicking over the hold. The tease was almost too much for Matt. Barely holding himself together, he desperately rocked against the other man's thigh with very little success. “Don't distract the man from his work” he heard from behind him. 

The hairs on his back stood up with the warm breath of Marisha. She to took the flesh of Matt's warm skin into her mouth, biting and sucking along his shoulders and back.  “Y-ou guys are gonna kill me” he managed to say. 

It took Taliesin completely by surprise when Matt's mouth connected with his growing erection. He started with a soft kiss to the head, followed by a slow devious lick up the shaft with the flat of his tongue. The vibration against his wrist told Matt he was on the right track. 

Taliesin released his mouth, keeping hold of his hand, and admired the dark purple and red bruise already forming. I might have gone too far with that one he thought to himself, comparing his mark to Marisha's. 

Too distracted to really care, he paused his admiration when more pleasure hit his body. Looking down, he saw Matt with his nose pressed right up to the base of his cock, balls being teased at with his tongue and free hand. He turned just in time to see Marisha lean over Matt's shoulder and took his length in her hand. The angle was a bit awkward, but what she did manage to fit in her hand was enough pleasure to make him fly. 

“This is immaculate” Taliesin gasped, after allowing himself a moment “ but I do believe we have a mission”  

“I'm just following his lead,’ the redhead teased with a tongue sticking out her toothy smile. 

“Well, I suppose if the boy wants to suck, who am I to disagree?” 

Gently releasing the hand still in his grasp, he stroked the side of Matt's face. “Does my pretty boy need to taste my knot before I stuff you to the brim with it? Make sure I'm ready for the job?” Taliesin teased, pulling his stiffness downward to angle it towards the eager omegas flushed face. 

“Please” Matt's voice was just above a whisper, eyes practically glazed over. 

“ Come again? I can't hear you”

“Please” he pushed his voice out louder. 

“Look me in the eyes Matt, ask for it” despite his eagerness, the unfocused look in his eyes made Taliesin a bit worried. He needed to make sure it was a pleasure- high and not a dissociative response.  He took Matt's chin in his hand, and sat back on his own feet to get a better look at the man's face. 

Sensing the worry across from her, Marisha crawled around next to Taliesin so she could see for herself what Tal was worried about. 

It took an extra beat longer than it should have for Matt to respond. So , marisha slithered a hand to the back of Matt's head and took a fist full of hair at the base on good neck and yanked. Sometimes, a tiny bit of pain as a disruption was enough to pull Matt's head from the clouds. It showed they were being serious and not just dirty talking. 

“Answer him”

“ah- ah! yes Taliesin I want to suck you off, please let me” good, the sharp focus was back in his expression. Now maybe he won't accidentally choke himself on dick. 

“Good boy” Marisha smoothed her hand over where she had just tugged. “Have at ‘em”

Making eye contact with the alpha in front of him for a silent ‘go ahead’ , he began. 

Savoring the salty taste and unique musk of the alpha, Matt took his time. Making sure to commit every detail to memory - despite this clearly not being his first time in this predicament. With a practiced mouth, he inched the cock inch by inch into his mouth. Matt's tongue swirled every surface it could reach- desperate to please. 

Each swish of tongue and bob of the head had Taliesin unsure if he could manage not bucking straight into the man's throat. This was a true gift in his eyes. He was expecting the heat mad brain of Matt would be demanding his knot with zero room for anything else. “God you must really love a good knot if you want it in your mouth instead of tied up inside you. “

Matt moaned as some sort of answer - he was too busy to clarify though. 

“Don't forget Matt, you have two alphas here. “Marisha teased the head of Matt's cock -still trapped between himself and Taliesin. 

In the heat of the moment, Taliesin found himself growling and tugging at Matt's silky hair. Taken completely by surprise, Matt pulled back and stared with wide eyes up at Taliesin. 

“Woah!” Marisha jumped up, putting a hand on Matt's shoulder and the other on Taliesin's hip. 

Realizing what just happened, the other man also froze, releasing his grip on Matt. “ Oh my God, Matty I'm so sorry - I didn't mean- I didn't-,” he couldn't seem to find the right words to express his own genuine surprise and guilt. He knew Matt hated being growled at. At others? Sometimes sexy. But never at him. 

“Tal?” Marisha asked cautiously. Her body language hit the defense, but her expression was genuine and open. 

Matt's eyes flicked between the two alphas - panic fading. Marisha was taking the reins and that was always a relief. 

He could see the genuine concern and guilt in the eyes of Taliesin, which in turn made him feel guilty. The rational part of his brain desperately wanted to reach out, touch him and tell him it's okay, he's not upset or mad. But his body refused to move. His lips opened slightly but no words would come out.

“I don't know- I'm sorry-” Taliesin took a deep breath to steady his shaking voice, “ Matt, I'm genuinely sorry about that. I never had any intention of growling - that wasn't supposed to happen” 

Marisha took both of the men's hands in each of her own. “I know you didn't mean anything by it Tal” then she looked at Matt “Are you okay? Do you want to keep going?”

Nodding, Matt leaned into Marisha, and grabbed Taliesin's other hand. He allowed himself a moment to focus on the feeling of his fingers on the rougher ones in front of him. 

Managing to finally get his mouth to work, he croaks out: “I'm okay. I'm - I'm just on edge, y'know? Everyone was surprised there” he forced a chuckle.

 “I... I know it’s dumb,” he continued, his voice barely above a whisper, “but... you two are okay, right? Like... with each other?”

Marisha tilted her head, a soft, knowing smile spreading across her lips. “Of course we are, love. Why would you think otherwise?”

Matt hesitated, his cheeks flushing. “I just... I know it’s stupid, but alphas aren’t supposed to share, right? Normally? I mean, I know you’re different. We’re different. But... after the growl...” He trailed off, his fingers tightening around the blankets under him. “I guess I just... My monkey brain needs to see it.”

Marisha pressed a wordless kiss against Matt's lips - full of reassurance- before drawing her attention to Taliesin, giving him his own gentle kiss. 

her hand came to rest on the side of his face. Taliesin sat stiffly, his posture tense, his hands resting awkwardly on his knees. His eyes flicked to Matt, then back to Marisha, uncertain. Marisha noticed the hesitation immediately and smiled softly, her thumb stroking along the sharp line of his jaw. 

“I mean it when I say I genuinely love you tal” Marisha said, voice steady. She would have been more coy about it in any other context, but this was for Matt. Actually, Marisha was grateful for the opportunity for this particular kind of intimacy with Taliesin. 

She leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to Taliesin’s lips, her fingers slipping into his purple Mohawk. Taliesin froze for a heartbeat, caught between his instincts and trust, but as her other hand rested lightly on his shoulder, he melted into the touch. He returned the kiss cautiously, his movements slow and deliberate

“God Marish’ I love you too”  Taliesin responded genuinely. 

Marisha deepened the connection, her hand sliding down his neck, pausing just long enough to rub her wrist lightly against his skin. The motion wasn’t possessive—it was a deliberate offering, a gesture of trust. Taliesin exhaled shakily, his shoulders relaxing as he mirrored the motion.

His hand moved to her neck, tentative at first, the pads of his fingers brushing against her skin. Then, with more confidence, he dragged his wrist along her collarbone, leaving a faint trace of his scent mingling with hers.

As if encouraged by the small success, Taliesin leaned forward, pressing his forehead to Marisha’s neck. The motion was unhurried, almost feline, as he nuzzled into the curve of her shoulder. A quiet hum escaped Marisha’s throat, and she tilted her head slightly, allowing him better access.

The two danced with their scents. There was no claiming, no aggression, no dominance. This was a pure display of love, trust, and mutual understanding. 

Matt inhaled sharply as their combined scent filled the room, a blend of warm cedar and bright citrus layered with something uniquely them. It was grounding, soothing, and undeniable proof that they were in this together. 

“Thank you…” Matt reached for them, his hands trembling slightly. Marisha was there first, catching his hand and pressing it to her cheek. Taliesin followed, his larger hand resting lightly over Matt’s.

The three of them stayed like that for a moment, a quiet triangle of connection, until Marisha shifted closer, pulling Matt into her arms. Taliesin leaned in as well, his hand finding its place on Matt’s back.

“We’ve got you,” Marisha murmured, her lips brushing his temple.

“You’re safe,” Taliesin added, his voice a steady rumble.

Matt exhaled shakily, his body sinking into theirs as the last remnants of doubt left him. “I... I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

Chapter Text

The room was still, heavy with the warmth of their combined scents. Matt rested against Marisha, his head nestled on her shoulder, while Taliesin sat in front of them, his hand drawing lazy circles on Matt’s back. The knot of tension in Matt’s chest had finally loosened. 

Marisha’s voice broke the quiet. “How are you feeling now, love?” she asked softly, brushing her lips over his temple.  

Matt hesitated, unsure how to respond. His body had started to hum with heat again, his skin prickling where their hands rested on him. “I’m fine,” he said quickly, though the words felt unconvincing even to his own ears. He shifted slightly, trying to relieve the ache building in his hips, but the movement only made it worse.  

Taliesin’s hand paused on Matt’s back. “You sure?” he asked, his voice low and full of quiet concern.  

“I--” Matt started, but the words caught in his throat. He clenched his hands, his cheeks flushing. The emotions of the moment still lingered: relief, vulnerability, gratitude--but they were quickly being eclipsed by the surge of his omega instincts. He swallowed hard, his voice barely a whisper. “It’s just... my heat...”  

Marisha’s arm tightened around him, her fingers combing through his hair. she murmured, her tone soothing. “That's okay.”  

Taliesin shifted closer, his hand sliding down to rest on Matt’s waist. “We’ve got you,” he said simply, his steady presence grounding Matt as his body trembled. “Just tell us what you need.”  

But Matt hesitated, guilt twisting in his stomach. “I--after everything, I shouldn’t... I mean, we just--” His voice cracked, and he buried his face against Marisha’s neck, ashamed. “I feel weird wanting to jump right back in. Im messing everything up”  

“Oh my god, babe, I promise you've done nothing wrong” Marisha said reflexively in a gentle tone.

“No but I did! Things were going well and I just had to go and stop it all mid intensity. God I just…hate myself” Matt could feel those stupid tears trying to well up again. “Im so fucking needing arent I? One stupid sound made me freeze for no reason! What the fuck! I left mid hangout because I just needed to get dicked down that badly apparently, but even that wasn't enough was it?! God, my stupid ugly ass -”

Marisha flung herself into her husband, giving him the tightest hug she could manage.Her hands splayed across his back, holding him firmly as if she could physically keep him from slipping further into the torrent of self-loathing.

“Stop,” she whispered, her voice breaking. “Stop saying those things about yourself, Matt.”

Matt froze in her arms, his breath hitching.

“You’re not ugly,” she continued, her tone fierce and unwavering. “And you’re not a burden, and you sure as hell aren’t messing anything up. You’re human, Matt. You’re allowed to feel things. You’re allowed to need things. That’s not weakness, okay?”

Taliesin shifted closer, his warm hand anchoring him. “There's nothing wrong with you, Matt,” he said softly, his voice low and steady. “You’re ours. And we love you—all of you. The good, the messy, the things you think are flaws. We don’t see them that way.”

Matt let out a shaky breath, But the tears didn’t stop. “I just... I feel like I’m too much,” he whispered. “Like I’m this big, needy... thing. And you shouldn’t have to deal with that.”

Taliesin leaned forward, his forehead pressing against Matt’s temple. “Matt,” he murmured, his tone dipping lower, softer, like he was speaking directly to the deepest part of him. “We want to deal with it. All of it. That’s why we’re here. You’re not just someone we have to take care of. You’re someone we get to take care of.”

Marisha nodded, “You’re our heart. And right now, our heart needs a little extra love. That’s okay. We’re not going anywhere.”

They fell into silence as Matt grappled with the sentiment. He couldn't argue, or rather didn't know how to. He wanted to keep apologizing but clearly the alphas didn't want any of that. So, he let himself go limp against marisha, and let his legs relax against Taliesin. Matt let his fingers roam whatever flesh was closest and allowed his eyes to close, taking in the safety and comfort of his lovers.

Tal’s eyes met Marishas and an understanding sparked in their gaze. Matt would not be able to vocalize what he needed so clearly right now. If they left it up to him, he would probably bury them all alive in blankets and pillows - just cuddling until his skin burst into literal flame. Besides, knowing from experience, If they could relieve his heat symptoms, the increased depression would also fade along with them. It was a rather unfortunate addition to his heat symptoms, but this time around Matt's heat was hitting him real hard -- mentally and emotionally. 

Just the idea of letting his omega suffer like that made Taliesin's skin crawl. ‘Wait, since when have I thought of matt…so possessively?’ he thought to himself. Another thing to tuck away until he can sort it out later. ‘Ours’ he corrected himself. That felt more on the mark, anyway.

Taliesin moved first, his lazy grip on Matt's legs stirred, tracing their way up his thighs and agonizingly close to his center. When Matt didn't stop him, instead letting his legs fall further apart, He inserted his fingers. Matt with his eyes still closed, shivered and let out a breath as adroit fingers explored him. His fingers moved with precision, his touch deliberate. He watched Matt closely, his sharp eyes catching every faint shift in the omega’s expression, every tremble that rippled through his body.

Matt’s lips parted slightly, a soft gasp escaping as Taliesin’s fingers pressed deeper, his touch slow and exploratory. “There you go,” Tal murmured, his voice low and warm, almost a purr. “That’s better, isn’t it?”

Matt shivered, his lashes fluttering as he nodded faintly. His body shifted toward the sensation, his hips rolling forward just enough to encourage Taliesin to continue.

Behind him, Marisha’s hands moved in calming rhythms along his arms and chest, but even her grounding presence wasn’t enough to ease the edge of his frustration. A low growl of impatience rumbled in his throat before he could stop it, and his hips jerked against Taliesin’s hand.

Taliesin froze for a moment, his sharp eyes flicking up to meet Marisha’s. She raised a brow, her lips quirking into the faintest smile as if to say, You’re the one who can fix this.

Taliesin shifted slightly, his fingers curling with more precision. Matt let out a shaky whimper, his head rolling back against Marisha’s shoulder as his hands fisted in the sheets 

“It’s—ah, it’s not enough,” Matt finally choked out, his voice cracking with frustration. His thighs trembled against Taliesin’s steady grip, his body taut and trembling. “I need—” His words broke off into a low, needy whine, his hips lifting as if searching for something more.

Taliesin’s breath hitched, the omega’s desperate sounds sending a sharp flare of heat through his chest. His alpha instincts surged, demanding he give Matt what he needed. He glanced at Marisha again, his brows furrowing as he searched her expression for confirmation.

She nodded once, her eyes warm. “Go ahead,” she murmured, her hands tightening slightly around Matt’s waist. “He needs you.”

Taliesin exhaled slowly, grounding himself as his free hand slid up Matt’s trembling thighs. His touch was firm but careful, his thumbs brushing soothingly over sensitive skin as he positioned himself between the omega’s legs. 

“Matt,” he murmured, his voice low and steady, but the omega didn’t respond. His head lolled back, his breaths coming in uneven gasps as his body quivered beneath their touch.

Taliesin leaned forward, his hands gripping Matt’s hips as he pressed a soft kiss to the omega’s stomach. He inhaled deeply, letting Matt’s scent settle over him. His instincts roared, sharp and insistent, but he kept his movements measured.

Slowly, he aligned himself, the blunt heat of his arousal pressing against Matt’s entrance. The omega’s body tensed briefly, his breath hitching, before he relaxed into Marisha’s arms, his thighs falling open in a silent invitation.

Taliesin pushed forward with deliberate care, his hands steadying Matt’s hips as he entered him inch by inch. The omega’s breath stuttered, a low moan spilling from his lips as the ache inside him finally began to ease.

The change was immediate. Matt’s body arched sharply, his hand flying up to grip Marisha’s arms as a broken cry escaped him.

Taliesin set a slow, deliberate rhythm, his hips moving with careful precision as he watched Matt’s every reaction. The omega writhed beneath him, his body responding to the deep, steady strokes.

Marisha held Matt through the thrusts. She pressed a kiss to his temple, her breath warm against his damp skin. She snaked her hand to stroke the omega’s length in time with Taliesin's thrust, twisting her hand just the way she knows he likes. Her own arousal that had been present was now blooming even deeper at the scene in front of her. That’s it, love,” she murmured, her voice low and steady. “You’re doing so well.”

Taliesin leaned forward, his forehead brushing lightly against Matt’s as his movements deepened. The omega’s cries grew louder, his nails digging at someone's skin (he couldn't tell, and didn't really care to try) as his body trembled on the edge of release.

Taliesin could feel it building, the primal pull of his knot swelling as Matt’s body tightened around him. His alpha instincts surged again, sharper this time, demanding completion. Not that sex necessarily felt different than usual, but just the idea of getting to fill Matt up , being able to get Matt to make those noises, riled him up way more than it should have. 

Matt let out a desperate whimper, his hips jerking upward as he chased the relief he so desperately needed. “Please,” he gasped, his voice raw and broken. “Please—Tal.”

Taliesin’s grip on Matt’s hips tightened, his rhythm faltering slightly as his knot swelled fully. The sudden stretch sent a sharp cry tearing from Matt’s throat, his body arching as the sensation combined with marishas hand tipped him over the edge.

The omega’s release hit like a wave, his muscles locking before trembling violently as he cried out. His body tightened around Taliesin, pulling him deeper as the alpha groaned low in his throat, his own release following in thick, pulsing waves. Matt could feel himself being stretched with Taliesin's knot.

The room stilled, save for heavy breathes and desperate kissing. The trio rested on each other in a limp pile until Taliesin's knot went down enough to separate from Matt, as much as he would have rather stayed for eternity. 

Matt was boneless and blissful. He was moved out of marishas lap and laid down properly on the bed. His beautiful, almost elven, body glistening with sweat and glowing in the dim light and high on the endorphins of a powerful heat orgasm.

Taliesin wordlessly crawled next to the omega and tucked his face into his shoulder, faint purrs emanating from his chest as he cuddled into Matt. The scent of a pleased omega was just as addicting to taliesin in that moment as the sweet scent of matts heat. And now that both of those scents were swirling into his nostrils, taliesin swore he felt lightheaded and a bit tingly.

Marisha had the foresight to grab a couple damp towels for half assed clean up and a separate cool towel to dab at Matt's forehead before she too tucked herself up against Matt.

In the quiet glow, Matt fell asleep promptly. Being knotted twice was apparently enough to be graciously allowed respite. It wouldn't last for long, but in this moment marisha allowed herself to relax and drink in the sight of Matt's face finally relaxing, and taliesin with an unusually proud look to his own resting expression. His penchant for purring was a soothing rumble that accompanied marishas own descent into much needed sleep.

Chapter Text

The next few days were a blur for Matt, filled with alpha scent and deep need. Marsha and Taliesin took turns knotting Matt when his body began throwing fits about it (one of the best upsides of two alphas , they can take breaks to keep up with an omega heat). 

After the 6th day of heat, Matt began to get worried. On the rare occasion he had gone through heats before, things started calming down about day 4 for him. There were zero signs of his body slowing down, almost a full week into it. 

He was so tired. He felt gross, constantly covered in one bodily fluid or another. He couldn't predict his appetite - either food made him nauseous or he was absolutely ravenous.

 He tried to be productive- work on campaign notes, listen in on meetings, or even reply to emails. But all he could think about was his alphas. Or how miserable he felt. It must be a consequence of being on heat suppressants for so long, it must be. 

Taliesin had actually left for the day, going back to his place. He ran out of clean clothes like two days ago and had been relying on marishas laptop for his own work. He actually needed to stop by the office and-oh he should probably get groceries while he's out. Much to Matt's dismay, Tal would be gone for most of the day. 

So with Taliesin gone for now, it was just Marisha and Matt sitting in the living room, illuminated by the TV and natural light. 

He didn't really have the energy to talk, let alone concentrate on the TV show they had on. 

A sudden sharp pain split through his abdomen, tensing and doubling over. His breathing became sharp and shallow as he froze. 

Marisha noticed immediately. “Babe?” She asked, voice laced with concern. 

All Matt could do was whimper. In his mind he was desperately calling for Marisha, for her help, but his body wouldn't listen to his commands as it reacted to the pain. God, he’ll never get used to cramps, will he?

Marsha slid off the couch and crouched to meet Matt's face. “What's wrong, are you alright?” Panic began to bubble up in her mind. He wasn't responding- how is she supposed to help if he can't tell her what's wrong!?

Marisha’s hand hovered over Matt’s face, her thumb brushing against his flushed cheek in an effort to draw his attention. “Matt, babe, can you hear me? What’s wrong?”

Matt took a moment to gather the will to speak. “It hurts,” he mumbled, the words so faint she barely caught them.

“Hurts where?” she asked, keeping her voice steady even though her heart was racing. Cramping was normal , but this was one hell of a reaction she couldn't recall ever seeing. 

“Here,” he whispered, moving his hands slightly to show her the spot just below his bellybutton. His breath hitched as her fingers pressed lightly against the area.

Marisha frowned, her sharp eyes scanning his face. “Cramps?” she asked softly.

“Maybe. I don’t know,” Matt replied, frustration creeping into his voice. He winced as the pain flared again, his body curling in on itself despite her best efforts to soothe him.

“Alright,” she murmured, standing up quickly. “Stay right here. I’m going to grab the heating pad and some water, okay?”

Matt didn’t respond, his focus entirely on trying to ride out the wave of pain. Marisha darted into the kitchen, filling a glass of water with one hand while yanking open a drawer to retrieve the heating pad with the other. She then rumbled through their cabinet where they keep medicines, searching quickly for pain relief. 

When she returned, she found Matt slumped back against the couch, his breathing shallow but steady. His eyes flicked up to her, and for a moment, she thought she saw tears welling in them.

“Hey, I’ve got you,” she said gently, setting the glass down on the coffee table and plugging in the heating pad. “We’ll get you sorted out. Just take a sip of water for me, yeah? Got some meds for you too.”

Matt hesitated, but when she pressed the glass into his hands, he obeyed, taking a small sip and tossing the two little pills he was handed into his mouth before setting the cup back down, trying not to gag.

Marisha eased the heating pad over his stomach, adjusting it until he nodded faintly, letting her know it was in the right spot. Then she slid back onto the couch beside him, pulling him into her side as her hand resumed its slow, comforting circles over his abdomen.

“You’re okay,” she murmured, her voice soft and steady. “I’m right here. Just breathe with me, babe.”

For a while, they sat in silence, the tension in the room gradually easing as Matt’s breathing steadied. But the pain eventually faded from sharp pressure into a more annoying dull ache. 

“I hate this,” Matt muttered suddenly, his voice low but sharp.

Marisha blinked, her hand pausing mid-stroke. “What?”

“This. All of this,” he said, his voice rising slightly as his hands clenched into fists. “I hate being like this. Being an omega. I hate how my body... it’s like it’s not even mine anymore.”

His voice cracked on the last word, and Marisha felt her heart clench. “Matt...” she started, but he shook his head, cutting her off.

“No, don’t. Don’t tell me it’s okay, because it’s not,” he snapped, his frustration boiling over. “I feel like I’m falling apart, and I can’t even control my own body. All I can do is sit here and wait for it to get worse.”

Marisha’s chest ached as she watched him, his shoulders trembling with the weight of his emotions. She reached out, her hand settling on his cheek, her thumb brushing away the tear that slipped down his face.

“You're not in this alone,” she said softly, her voice steady despite the lump in her throat.

Matt let out a bitter laugh, his head falling forward as he muttered, “I shouldn’t need help for something my body is supposed to know how to do.”

“Your body’s been through hell,” Marisha countered gently, leaning in closer. “Coming off suppressants, handling this heat... it’s not something you can just snap your fingers and fix. it’s okay, Matt. That’s what I’m here for. That’s what we’re here for.”

For a moment, he didn’t respond, his breathing ragged as he tried to pull himself together. Then, slowly, he leaned into her touch, his head resting against her shoulder.

“I don’t want to feel like this anymore,” he whispered, his voice breaking.

“I know,” Marisha murmured, pressing a kiss to the top of his head. “We’ll figure this out, love. Whatever’s going on, we’ll handle it”.

-----

The door clicked shut behind Taliesin, and he exhaled slowly, the weight of the day finally settling on his shoulders. It was late—too late—but he’d been determined to get everything done before coming home. The groceries weighed heavily in one hand, his backpack slung over the other shoulder as he carefully set them down on the kitchen counter.

He moved quietly through the space, putting away the groceries with practiced efficiency, his movements barely disturbing the quiet hum of the apartment. When he finished, he slung his backpack into a chair and made his way toward the living room, his boots soft on the floorboards.

He stopped in the doorway, his eyes adjusting to the low light and landing immediately on the couch. There, tangled together under a pile of blankets, were Marisha and Matt.

Marisha’s arm was draped protectively over Matt’s middle, her body curled into his as if shielding him from the world. Matt’s face was tucked into her neck, his hand resting loosely against her arm, his expression slack with the rare softness of sleep.

Taliesin’s lips twitched into a faint smile, warmth spreading in his chest at the sight of them. For a moment, he just stood there, hoping to dedicate every detail of this scene to memory, the familiar scents of home and pack soothing something deep and primal inside him.

After a long moment, he moved closer, crouching beside the couch with the intention of waking them gently. But as his hand reached toward Matt’s shoulder, he froze.

Something... something was off.

His nostrils flared slightly as his alpha instincts prickled at the edge of his awareness. Matt’s scent was different—richer, warmer, with a faint sweetness that hadn’t been there before. It wasn’t unpleasant. In fact, it was almost... soothing. But it was also unfamiliar, and that set off a quiet alarm in the back of his mind.

Taliesin pulled his hand back, his brow furrowing as he leaned closer, breathing in deeply to confirm what he was sensing. It wasn’t drastic, but it was enough to make his instincts hum uneasily.

What the hell is that? he thought, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly as he glanced at Matt’s relaxed face.

His first thought was that it had to be some heat thing—a hormonal shift or a delayed reaction to coming off suppressants. It made sense, didn’t it? Matt’s body had been through so much lately, it wasn’t unreasonable to assume his scent might shift a little as a result.

But deep down, in the part of him he didn’t like to acknowledge, something about it felt... significant.

Taliesin shook his head, pulling himself out of the thought before it could spiral. No. It’s nothing. Just weird alpha shit. My instincts are probably just overcompensating because he’s been sick.

Even as he thought it, the words felt hollow. He glanced down at Matt again, his gaze lingering on the way his hand rested loosely over his stomach.

He scrubbed a hand over his face, exhaling quietly. I’m reading too much into this. It’s late. I’m tired. I’ll deal with it in the morning.

But the unease didn’t fully fade as he stood and moved back toward the kitchen, leaning against the counter as he wrestled with the nagging feeling in his chest.

After a moment, a new thought surfaced—one that made his lips press into a thin line.

Travis.

Travis was an alpha, and if anyone would understand, it would be him. He’d been through it—granted, with Laura, who was a beta, but her scent had shifted during her pregnancy, becoming more reactionary in ways that weren’t dissimilar to omega scent changes. If there was anyone Taliesin could trust to give him a level-headed opinion, it was Travis.

I’ll call him tomorrow, Taliesin decided, nodding to himself. He’d bring it up casually, frame it as a hypothetical if he needed to. Travis wouldn’t push unless Taliesin gave him a reason to.

With that plan in mind, Taliesin pushed off the counter and returned to the living room. He crouched down again, his hand finally resting gently on Matt’s shoulder.

“Hey,” he murmured softly, his voice barely above a whisper. “Let’s get you two to bed.”

Marisha stirred first, blinking groggily as she turned her head to look at him. “Tal?” she mumbled, her voice thick with sleep.

“Yeah, it’s me,” he said, offering her a faint smile. “Come on. Couch can’t be that comfortable.”

She yawned, nodding faintly as she sat up and stretched. Matt stirred against her, his brow furrowing as he mumbled something incoherent.

Taliesin reached out, his hand gentle on Matt’s arm as he coaxed him awake. “Matt, love, come on. Let’s get you to bed.”

Matt let out a soft groan, his eyes fluttering open to meet Taliesin’s. “What time is it?” he mumbled, his voice hoarse.

“Late,” Taliesin replied, helping him sit up. “Come on. You’ll feel better in bed.”

As they shuffled toward the bedroom, Taliesin couldn’t help but glance back at Matt’s relaxed face, the unease in his chest refusing to completely settle.

  ----

In the late morning glow, Matt was still asleep, curled on his side under several blankets, his face buried in the pillow. Marisha sat at the edge of the bed, scrolling through her phone while sipping her coffee.

Taliesin leaned against the doorframe, his arms crossed as he watched them. His alphas’ instincts were unusually sharp this morning, still prodding at the change in Matt’s scent that he’d noticed the night before. It lingered faintly in the room now, warm and sweet, like honey laced with something sharper he couldn’t quite name.

“I need to make a phone call,” he said finally, his voice calm but a little strained.

Marisha glanced up at him, her brow arching. “Everything okay?”

“Yeah,” he replied quickly, offering her a small smile. “Just... work stuff. Be back in a bit.”

She frowned slightly, but she didn’t press, nodding before turning her attention back to her phone.

Taliesin slipped out of the bedroom and into the kitchen, grabbing his phone from the counter and dialing before he could second-guess himself. The line rang twice before a familiar voice answered, warm and deep.

“Hey, Tal!” Travis said, the faint sound of a toddler giggling in the background. “What’s up, man? You never call this early.”

Taliesin hesitated, his fingers tapping restlessly against the counter. “Yeah, uh... sorry about that. Is this a bad time?”

“Nah, I’ve got time,” Travis said easily. “I’m just wrangling Ronin into eating his cereal instead of wearing it. What’s going on?”

Taliesin exhaled slowly, running a hand through his hair. “Okay, so... this is gonna sound weird. And I need you to not laugh at me.”

There was a brief pause, then a chuckle. “No promises, but I’ll try,” Travis said.

Taliesin groaned, already regretting the call. “It’s about Matt,” he started, his voice lower now, more serious.

“Okay...” Travis said, his tone shifting to match Taliesin’s. “What about Matt?”

Taliesin hesitated again, his mind racing as he tried to piece together how to explain without sounding completely ridiculous. “Last night, when I got home, I noticed something... off,” he said finally.

“Off how?”

“His scent,” Taliesin admitted, the words tumbling out before he could stop them. “It’s different. Warmer. Sweeter. And it’s strongest when I’m near him, like... I don’t know. Like something’s changed.”

There was a beat of silence on the other end of the line before Travis let out a low hum. “Huh. And you think it’s... what? Hormonal?”

“I don’t know,” Taliesin said quickly, pacing the length of the kitchen. “That’s the thing. I’ve been trying to convince myself it’s just lingering heat hormones or something, but... it doesn’t feel like that. It feels... different”

“Okay,” Travis said slowly, his voice calm and thoughtful. “Have you talked to Marisha about this? Or Matt?”

“Not yet,” Taliesin admitted, dragging a hand down his face. “Marisha might’ve noticed, but Matt... he’s been so sick lately. He’s already overwhelmed, and I don’t want to add to that if I’m wrong.”

“Fair,” Travis said. “But you don’t usually jump to conclusions, Tal. If your gut’s telling you something, it’s probably worth paying attention to.”

Taliesin sighed, leaning back against the counter. “That’s the thing. My gut’s telling me something, but my brain’s screaming at me to calm the hell down. I mean, he’s on birth control, Travis. He shouldn’t... it shouldn’t be possible.”

Travis let out a low chuckle. “Ah, but you know how it goes, man. Birth control isn’t a hundred percent. Especially not if he’s been messing with his suppressants.”

Taliesin groaned again, his head tipping back as he stared at the ceiling. “I knew you were gonna say that,” he muttered.

“Look,” Travis said, his tone turning serious again. “It might be nothing. But if it’s not, you’re gonna need to handle it carefully. Matt’s already got a complicated relationship with his omega side, right? If he’s pregnant... that’s a big deal. Physically, emotionally, all of it.”

Taliesin’s chest tightened at the words. ‘pregnant’ rang sharp in his mind. Just the word made him freak out more somehow. “I know,” he said quietly.

“Start by talking to Marisha,” Travis suggested. “See if she’s noticed anything. And maybe find a way to gently bring it up to Matt. You don’t have to have all the answers right now—just take it one step at a time.”

Taliesin nodded, even though Travis couldn’t see him. “Yeah. Yeah, you’re right.”

“Of course I am,” Travis said, his tone lightening. “And hey, if it turns out you’re not imagining things, let me know. I’ll tell you everything I remember from when Laura was pregnant. Might not be the same, but it’s a start.”

“Thanks, man,” Taliesin said, a small smile tugging at his lips despite himself.

“Anytime,” Travis replied. “Now go take care of them. And call me if you need to freak out again.”

“Will do,” Taliesin said, hanging up with a quiet laugh.

He stared at his phone for a moment, his smile fading as the conversation replayed in his mind. Travis was right—they’d have to handle this carefully

Taliesin leaned against the counter, gripping his coffee mug tightly as if the heat could ground him. The faint sounds of Matt and Marisha stirring in the bedroom carried through the apartment, but he didn’t move. He couldn’t.

Matt’s scent still clung to him—sweet and warm, impossibly distracting even after he’d stepped away. No amount of pacing, no amount of logical reasoning, could shake the weight of it.

It’s nothing, he told himself for the fifth time that morning. Hormones. Heat sickness. His body’s been through hell. That’s all it is.

But his alpha instincts wouldn’t let it go. The change wasn’t subtle, not to him. It was like something had shifted in the core of Matt’s being, deep and undeniable, and his body had reacted before his mind could catch up.

He took a slow sip of the coffee he busied his hands with during his call, his free hand gripping the edge of the counter as his thoughts circled like vultures.

Why now? Why this?

He’d never felt this... primal before. Not even during Matt’s heat, when their instincts had all been on edge. This was different, sharper. It wasn’t just the urge to protect—it was the need to understand, to figure out why his omega’s scent was twisting him up like this.

Taliesin stared into his mug, his jaw tightening. “What the hell is wrong with me?” he muttered under his breath.

The memory of the market flashed through his mind, unbidden and vivid. The way that alpha had cornered Matt, the way Matt’s voice had cracked as he shouted for help, the look of pure terror and fury on his face...

Taliesin’s grip on the counter tightened, the ceramic of his mug creaking faintly under the pressure of his hand. His blood had run cold that day, his instincts screaming at him to do something, to protect Matt, to rip that asshole’s throat out for even daring to touch him.

He’d barely been able to contain himself then. And now? Now, his instincts were worse, louder, more insistent. Was it because of the attack? Was his alpha side overcompensating, trying to make up for the fact that he hadn’t been there to stop it before it happened?

Or was it Matt himself?

Taliesin closed his eyes, inhaling deeply to calm the storm in his chest, but that only made it worse. The memory of Matt’s scent from the night before hit him like a brick wall, the sweetness of it coiling around his senses, making his pulse quicken and his breath hitch.

It wasn’t just the change in Matt’s scent that was throwing him off—it was the way his body responded to it, the way his mind couldn’t focus on anything else. It felt like...

He didn’t finish the thought. 

Taliesin’s free hand drifted to his phone, his thumb hovering over the screen as he debated calling Travis again. The conversation from just a moment ago played over in his mind.

“Birth control isn’t a hundred percent.”

“Your gut’s probably right.”

“You’re going to have to handle it carefully.”

The weight of those words settled heavily in his chest. If Travis was right—if Matt really was...

Taliesin shook his head sharply, setting the coffee mug down with a loud clink. He couldn’t let himself go there. Not yet. Not without proof.

But the thought wouldn’t leave him. It whispered at the edges of his mind, planting seeds of doubt and possibility that he couldn’t ignore.

If he’s pregnant...

The idea made his stomach churn, not because he didn’t want it ( they'd cross that bridge when they came to it), but because he couldn’t imagine how Matt would handle it.

Matt, who hated being an omega.

Matt, who’d been so adamant about birth control and suppressants.

Matt, who already looked like he was barely holding it together.

Taliesin dragged a hand down his face, exhaling slowly. “You’re spiraling,” he muttered to himself. “Get a grip.”

But his alpha instincts weren’t listening. They were too focused on the scent, on Matt’s pale face and trembling hands, on the way his body seemed to be crying out for something Taliesin couldn’t yet name.

----

Taliesin sat in his car, fingers anxiously rubbing at the texture of the steering wheel. He hadn’t planned to leave this morning—especially not like this—but when he’d caught himself pacing the kitchen again while Marisha was distracted upstairs, he’d blurted out, “I forgot something at the store last night. Be back in a bit.”

He hadn’t waited for a response.

Now, as he parked outside the pharmacy, his heart was racing in a way that made no sense. His palms were damp, and his instincts felt louder than ever, pressing at the edges of his thoughts anxiously.

He stepped into the store, the overhead lights far too bright and his own footsteps far too loud as he made his way to the intended section. His feet slowed as he approached the aisle he needed, and he stood there for a moment, staring blankly at the shelves.

Pregnancy tests lined the rows in neat, colorful boxes, each one claiming to be the most accurate or the fastest. There were soft pink and blues, sporty purples and greens, and clinical white boxes scattering his field of vision. But Taliesin’s eyes were drawn to the section marked specifically for omegas, the boxes distinct in their branding. He hovered there, completely frozen.

This section talisin crouched at practically swam in front of him as he tried to make sense of what each box was advertising. “heat cycle detection!” , “omega male and female test!” , “peace of mind, early pregnancy test”.

Which one? he thought helplessly, scanning the options like they were written in a language he didn’t understand. He grabbed two—one box with bold, clinical text, and another that claimed it was “discreet and accurate.” 

He was never one to be embarrassed buying omega products. He's picked up Matt's suppressants before, and helped Matt and his other omega friends by running for emergency supplies. But buying something like this had weight behind it. It was a private matter on display for all who saw him holding it. He held the boxes awkwardly and threw them into the plastic bags at the self checkout as soon as he could, as if they were burning his hands. The casual glance from the worker stalking shelves seared his skin. He figured he looked suspicious as hell being so skittish. 

The drive home was a blur. He parked but didn’t go in right away, his hands gripping the steering wheel as he tried to straighten himself out.

How the hell do I bring this up?

The thought of handing Matt the tests outright made his stomach twist. He couldn’t picture Matt’s face—couldn’t imagine the sharp edge in his voice as he inevitably pushed back. The last thing he wanted to do was offend Matt, be pushed away. 

Taliesin pulled the boxes out of the bag, staring at them in his lap. The word omega stood out like a glaring accusation, bold and obvious, and he frowned. Digging through the center console, he pulled out a black Sharpie and quickly scratched the word out, leaving awkward black squares across the boxes. 

“Better,” he Muttered to himself.