Chapter Text
The inspiration for this story come from the following fan art by @secret_jeen.
When Yoongi finally managed to lift his head from the endless workload of the past few days, the morning hours were long gone, and the sun had taken its place at the peak of the sky, painting the town square with bright lights. As the alpha leader of the pack, after granting his right-hand man Taehyung and the other alphas on the advisory council permission to have lunch, he decided to enjoy the spring weather by heading to the abandoned sheep trail in Songdo. Yoongi had known this place since he was a much younger alpha, and in this secluded cove, hidden from prying eyes, he wanted to sit on the pebbles, watch the waves crash against the shore, and perhaps, for the first time in days, savor the solitude.
Since returning to his pack two weeks ago, he hadn’t had any time to himself. He had known, of course, that he would have to take on numerous responsibilities after his father’s death. Yet the months he had spent in Gwangju—first training and then representing his father as leader—had lulled him into a false sense of calm. But his fate had already been decided, and the time granted to him by his highly authoritative omega mother had come to an end.
As he followed the winding path down the hill, walking briskly and slightly out of breath, he thought about the letter his mother had sent to summon him. After advising him not to leave his pack unattended and warning him that their enemies could strike at any moment, she, of course, like any mother, had shifted the conversation to marriage. Yoongi knew she expected him to bond with a suitable omega as soon as he returned.
Well, Yoongi was prepared for that. He couldn’t say he was against the idea of bonding. As a leader, he needed to marry an omega worthy of him and have an alpha heir. After spending years on battlefields, he knew better than anyone how much he craved a calm and peaceful life.
When the path ended, leading him to a beach covered in smooth white pebbles, he turned south and continued walking. That evening, at the festival in the town square, many omegas would have the chance to present themselves to Yoongi. His mother was confident he would find his mate among them, but Yoongi had serious doubts.
For one thing, he wasn’t just looking for someone beautiful and fertile, as was customary. Yoongi wanted a partner who wouldn’t shy away from books, someone intelligent, reasonable, and capable of offering advice. If he told Taehyung this, he would probably be mocked relentlessly. Like most of the other alphas around him, Taehyung believed Yoongi was looking for qualities that shouldn’t matter in an omega. It was easy for him to talk, of course. Taehyung had found the perfect omega for himself and married him about six months ago. Omega Jungkook, as Yoongi himself would admit, was extraordinarily beautiful and incredibly alluring. On top of that, he possessed all the qualities needed to build a strong home.
But Yoongi wasn’t building an ordinary home! His omega wouldn’t be just anyone who managed the household, cared for their pups, and doted on their alpha. The leader’s omega was just as important as the leader alpha. Even though things were calm for now, if he ever had to go to war, the omega he left behind needed to be as clever and authoritative as his mother. That was one of the most important lessons his father had taught him. Never underestimate omegas.
And when choosing your omega, never let lust cloud your judgment.
Yoongi sighed. Did it really have to be this difficult? Couldn’t he just pick one of the most beautiful ones like Taehyung had?
He pulled his hands out of his pockets and, with the pebbles he had gathered to skip across the water, walked toward the foamy waves brushing the shore. That’s when he saw them.
He had been so lost in thought that he hadn’t noticed at first. But now, mingling with the salty scent of the ocean, the fragrance of jasmine reached his nose. It was immediately followed by orange blossom and iris. Yoongi’s wolf purred in satisfaction, scratching at his soul as Yoongi stared at the omega waist-deep in the water. With graceful movements, they poured handfuls of salty water over their shoulders, their body shimmering under the sun.
They must have been just as lost in thought, Yoongi realized, because they didn’t seem to notice they were being watched by an alpha.
Yoongi knew he shouldn’t be watching them like this. It wasn’t proper behavior for someone as well-trained and disciplined as he was. Yet he couldn’t look away. He was frozen, his eyes fixed on the omega’s pale back. The curve of their hips disappeared beneath the water, reappearing in the foam as the waves ebbed and flowed. Yoongi parted his lips slightly. Was it suddenly hotter than before?
The omega’s delicate shoulders, the strands of wet hair brushing their nape, and the rhythmic way they poured water over themselves provided such a mesmerizing sight that Yoongi’s usually controlled wolf pushed him to approach them.
Of course, Yoongi wasn’t going to do that. While swimming completely nude in broad daylight wasn’t exactly appropriate, he knew better than to disturb them. Besides, this wasn’t really a public area. Nobody from the town came to this cove. At least, Yoongi hoped so, because the mere thought of someone else seeing the omega’s body made anger flare up inside him.
Before he could process his own emotions, the scent of cedar, patchouli, and the salty ocean breeze—something that could only come with a warm summer wind—spread through the air.
The omega stopped moving immediately. They must have realized they were being watched—by an alpha, no less.
Yoongi thought about turning around and leaving quickly to avoid frightening them. But the omega’s intensified pheromones rooted him in place. Damn it! Was this an invitation? Were they calling the alpha they hadn’t even seen yet to come closer?
The omega turned around slowly. Yoongi’s heart stuttered before it began pounding so hard it felt like it might break out of his chest.
The face before him was flawless. Slightly narrowed eyes, a button nose perfectly centered on the face, and full red lips. It was undoubtedly the most beautiful omega Yoongi had ever seen in his life. Even their eyebrows were perfect. Their lips parted slightly, curling into a mischievous smile as their shapely eyebrows rose in a way that made Yoongi want to kiss them.
Damn it! Yoongi thought once more. Park Jimin?
Then he heard his wolf’s voice.
Could he be mine?
The omega his wolf selfishly wanted was none other than Park Jimin, a boy Yoongi had known since childhood.
Yoongi’s breath hitched. He hadn’t seen Jimin since he had left the pack to train and become a good leader in Gwangju. Back then, Jimin had been a rambunctious and adorable little boy, barely 9 or 10 years old. He would constantly hover around Yoongi, sweet-talking and charming him with playful antics, then coaxing him into buying him ice cream or cotton candy.
Yoongi even remembered the day Jimin had stopped him during a town tour with his father and council members, holding up a ring he had made in school craft class. “Alpha Yoonie, please marry me,” Jimin had said. They had laughed so much at the little boy that his eyes filled with tears, and he stomped his foot, declaring, “You’ll see! When I grow up, I’ll marry Alpha Yoonie!”
Perfect, Yoongi’s wolf said. Let’s take him home. The pebbles on the beach don’t look very comfortable.
Yoongi wanted to scream at that moment. The wolf wasn’t helping, and neither was Jimin, whose every step brought more of his smooth, pale skin into view. Yoongi found himself fighting a battle to keep his gaze fixed on Jimin’s beautiful face, rather than letting it drift downward—a battle fiercer than any he had fought on the battlefield.
“Alpha Min,” Jimin said, stopping right in front of Yoongi. His smile was still on his lips, his expression playful. “It’s so nice to see you.”
For a moment, Yoongi’s eyes were drawn to the water droplets dripping from Jimin’s hair, trailing down his neck and chest, and disappearing toward places Yoongi refused to look. He quickly averted his gaze.
Get a grip, his wolf said. Can’t you see? He’s dying for you to look at him.
Jimin was glowing like a precious gem in the sunlight. With delicate fingers, he brushed the wet strands of hair from his forehead, looking completely at ease—almost as if he weren’t standing stark naked in the middle of the cove.
Yoongi’s brow furrowed. Once again, the thought of someone else seeing Jimin flashed through his mind, filling him with a primal protectiveness that even his wolf shared. He wanted to wrap Jimin up, shield him from view. And he wanted to scold him. How could he be so reckless?
But before Yoongi could say anything, Jimin’s mischievous expression disappeared. Letting out a soft “Oh!” he crossed his arms over his chest and turned his back to Yoongi.
Jasmine flowers surrounded him. The sweet scent of orange blossom intensified to the point that it assaulted Yoongi’s senses, leaving a taste in his mouth. He felt like he was about to explode. When his eyes fell to the plump curves offered before him, he bit down on his lower lip. God must be testing him today. If another alpha were in his place, they would have already claimed Jimin against the backdrop of this view. After all, resisting such a beautiful and brazen omega wasn’t something just anyone could manage.
“Would you hand me my towel?” Jimin’s voice was as sweet as honey. “It’s just over there. On the rocks.”
Yoongi struggled to tear his greedy eyes away from Jimin’s firm hips and thick thighs.
Imagine your hands on them.
His alpha’s voice cut through his mind, and Yoongi clenched his teeth. He was nearing the end of his restraint.
Grip those thick thighs and pull him toward you. Press yourself against him. Leave your mark on that smooth skin.
No, no, no! He couldn’t think about that.
Yes, yes, yes! You can. Picture it. In our home. In our bed, Yoongi. He’s writhing for us. Just look at him… Look at how he tilts his head, how he bares his nape to us. He wants this too. Take him home.
Yoongi took a step back and shook his head quickly, grabbing the soft, powder-pink towel folded neatly on a rock near Jimin’s clothes. The towel’s soft texture made his hands tremble, and a curse slipped through his lips.
Lucky towel. Who knows how many times it’s touched him. How many times it’s reached even his most secret places, wrapped tightly around him.
Yoongi had to find a way to silence his wolf, or things would get truly out of hand.
With a sense of duty, he unfolded the towel and draped it over Jimin’s shoulders, doing his best not to look at him. But before he knew it, his hands were moving on their own, helping Jimin dry off. His alpha purred in delight, trying to court Jimin’s omega as if he were a bonded alpha doting on his mate. At the same time, his alpha released his pheromones in a subtle attempt to convince the omega of more. The familiar scent of Yoongi—a combination of cedar, patchouli, and ocean breeze—enveloped Jimin. And now Jimin was coated with jasmine, orange blossom, and, of course, iris.
Iris was Yoongi’s favorite—a shy, delicate scent that only emerged in special moments Yoongi didn’t yet understand.
“Thank you,” Jimin said, wrapping the towel snugly around himself as he turned to face Yoongi. His eyes sparkled as if he knew the effect he had on him.
“Isn’t it dangerous to be out here alone?”
Yes, that was the first thing Yoongi asked the moment he opened his mouth. He hated the idea of Jimin swimming naked and alone in this deserted cove.
Jimin shrugged. “No one comes here.”
“But I came. And it could’ve been someone dangerous—”
“Actually,” Jimin took a small step closer to him. The distance between them shrank considerably. “Considering you’re an alpha, aren’t you dangerous? At least to me?”
He tilted his head slightly to the side. Wrapped in his powder-pink towel, he looked as pure and innocent as a baby. And those bright, beautiful eyes…
I’m getting hypnotized, Yoongi thought. Meanwhile, his wolf encouraged him to yank the towel away.
Undress him. He can’t hide this beauty from us.
“You can rest assured that I won’t harm you,” Yoongi said, sliding his hands into the pockets of his tailored pants. “And no matter what, I will protect you.”
Their gazes locked. Jimin wondered if Yoongi even realized what he was saying. Did he know he was claiming him? And that he was looking at Jimin as if he were a slice of cake made just for him? If Yoongi offered, Jimin might just let him take a bite.
Then Yoongi blinked rapidly, trying to snap himself out of it. Even his wolf had gone quiet, allowing them to speak. Still, something felt off. Since he’d first seen Jimin, Yoongi hadn’t been able to sense his omega’s wolf. It was as if it were too quiet, too distant.
Just as Yoongi wondered if it would be inappropriate to ask, Jimin opened his mouth as if he could read his mind.
“My wolf knows I can handle this,” he said. “That’s why, unlike your crazy wolf, mine prefers to rest and save its energy for the evening.”
There was so much meaning packed into Jimin’s words. For one, he was saying that being caught naked and alone by a dominant and powerful alpha didn’t faze him much. Perhaps that’s why Jimin had released his pheromones the moment he caught Yoongi’s scent. He had recognized him and had actually wanted him to come closer.
And then there was the evening. Yoongi hadn’t considered that Jimin might be one of the omegas presenting themselves at the festival, vying to bond with the leader alpha. Why hadn’t he thought of it? Was it because of the age difference? Or because he’d known Jimin as a tiny child?
After all, Yoongi was in his early thirties, and by that calculation, Jimin must’ve been in his early twenties now. The age gap didn’t feel so significant anymore. In fact, every alpha Yoongi knew preferred omegas younger than themselves.
He suddenly recalled Taehyung’s advice about choosing an omega. The younger, the better, Taehyung had said, clapping his shoulder. They’re more energetic and flexible.
Damn it!
He shouldn’t be thinking about Jimin like this.
Why not? his inner voice countered. He’s an adult now, and as he just said himself, he’ll be among the omegas there tonight to marry you.
Suddenly, Yoongi saw a flash of little Jiminie in his mind and let out a loud laugh. “So, you’re still intent on marrying Alpha Yoonie, huh?”
But Jimin didn’t laugh. He hadn’t forgotten how they’d mocked him all those years ago when, as a child, he’d run to Yoongi with his handmade ring, only to have his heartfelt proposal turned into a joke.
He tugged his towel lower, exposing his neck, and delicately ran his fingers over the scent glands that were the source of his pheromones. “Mmhmm,” he hummed softly. Remembering how Yoongi used to call him Yoonie made his cheeks flush pink. “All the omegas are preparing for you. They’ve gone to the hot springs on the other side of town to freshen up.”
“Oh, really? And why aren’t you there?”
Jimin smiled, baring his front teeth slightly—a smile that reminded Yoongi of little Jiminie’s crooked teeth and boisterous laughter. But that boy was long gone. This smile pierced Yoongi’s heart like an arrow. He tried looking upward to escape the ache in his chest, but that was a mistake.
Jimin’s eyes were waiting for him like a predator’s. His breath caught. He melted like soap bubbles.
With a slight shrug of his delicate shoulders, Jimin said, “I wanted to bathe in the ocean water. I wanted you to see how well the ocean’s fresh, salty scent matches my pheromones. Just like yours.”
If Yoongi’s favorite scent was iris, Jimin’s was the ocean breeze paired with cedar and patchouli.
Jimin pulled his fingers away from his scent glands and extended them toward Yoongi. It was an odd moment. Yoongi, stunned by Jimin’s boldness, found himself grabbing his wrist and drawing his fingers closer to his nose. He closed his eyes. The iris scent had finally taken over, accompanied by the ocean’s freshness.
“Hmm!” The satisfied sound that escaped his mouth broke the silence between them. Yoongi had to admit it was a delicious scent. Breathing it in so closely almost made him taste the orange, leaving a sweet and tangy sensation on his tongue.
He opened his eyes suddenly, his gaze landing on the spot just below Jimin’s ear where his scent glands were hidden. He wanted to devour it.
Omega, his alpha whispered. He wants your mark.
Then Yoongi realized what his wolf meant. When he lifted his head, his eyes met Jimin’s blue ones. The omega, who had claimed he was gathering strength, was standing right in front of him, having clearly understood Yoongi’s weakness, his wolf’s desperate desires, and the demands of his pheromones.
Yoongi’s wolf howled long and loud at the sight of Jimin’s wolf—a pristine white creature with piercing blue eyes, the most beautiful omega his alpha had ever seen. Yoongi pressed his lips together tightly, fearing that if he opened his mouth, his wolf’s cries would pour out.
“Alpha,” Jimin said, a devilish smile curling on his angelic face. “It’s so nice to see you again. You’re more… intense than I remember.”
Yoongi knew wolves were more stubborn and vengeful than humans. Jimin’s wolf hadn’t forgotten how it was rejected all those years ago. Jimin’s towel slipped slightly lower, just enough to expose the base of his neck, where the bond mark would go. Yoongi’s narrowed eyes honed in on the spot.
Damn it, Yoongi thought, cutting off his wolf. I want to devour him.
“I have to go,” he said abruptly.
Jimin smirked, his omega still teasing him. A gentle breeze carried the sweet, honey-like scent of iris into Yoongi’s lungs, making things even harder for him.
“Of course,” Jimin said, slowly unwrapping the towel to dry himself further. “I’m sure Alpha Min has more important things to do than chat with an omega.”
On any other day, Yoongi wouldn’t have let such a snide remark slide. But as an alpha who had always prided himself on his restraint, he was hanging by a thread.
“Omega,” he said before turning on his heel and walking away quickly. “Be at the festival tonight.”
***
Omega Sang Hee, after ensuring everything at the festival in the town square was running smoothly to help her son find a suitable mate, retreated to a corner to observe Yoongi surrounded by eager omegas vying for his attention. As a mother, she already had a clear name in her mind and heart, and she patiently awaited the moment her son would notice the same omega and announce their bond. Though she had kept her thoughts to herself so as not to influence him, her watchful eyes were always on him.
Yoongi, on the other hand, was plagued by the attention of omegas who, despite being formally presented to the leader alpha and instructed to step aside until his decision was announced, stubbornly refused to leave his side. Yet his attention lingered elsewhere—on the omega he couldn’t catch eyes with, not even once, outside the formal introduction.
Park Jimin stood out starkly against the other candidates, who adorned themselves in red and purple silks, draped in extravagant jewelry, and wore their most seductive smiles. In contrast, Jimin appeared modest and reserved, a far cry from the brazen omega Yoongi had encountered naked in the secluded cove, shamelessly using his pheromones to entice the alpha. Now, he was dressed in pure white, like his wolf’s fur, his face bare of makeup, his blond hair softly falling over his forehead, and a gentle, bashful smile playing on his lips throughout the evening, making him look like an angel.
And he was completely ignoring Yoongi.
Yoongi grabbed another goblet of wine, elaborately decorated with gold accents, and narrowly escaped from an omega rambling about their artistic talents. Making his way toward his mother, he decided he needed a break, a moment to breathe. Being near her was the only way to guarantee no omega would dare approach. His mother was a formidable woman, her years as the leader omega having made her intimidating to many.
“Have you made your decision?”
This was the first thing Sang Hee asked as soon as she saw him. The night was nearing its end, and it was time to bring the anticipation to a close.
“Not yet,” Yoongi replied, taking a large sip of wine.
“Oh, really?” Sang Hee’s surprise was evident as she looked at him. Raising his eyebrows, Yoongi tilted his head, silently asking why she was so shocked. “If no one has caught your eye,” she continued, “then control your pheromones. You’re the leader alpha, not some impulsive pup.”
“Mother—”
“And don’t think I haven’t noticed the way you can’t take your eyes off Park Jimin.” Yoongi nearly choked on his drink. He hadn’t realized it was that obvious. “But who could blame you? Since he entered his first heat at sixteen, every eligible alpha has had their eyes on him.”
“Sixteen? Omegas don’t usually enter their first heat until eighteen.”
Eager to learn anything about Jimin, Yoongi listened intently as Sang Hee, sensing her son’s interest, continued with satisfaction.
“Yes, that’s how it’s supposed to be. His poor parents were so worried we had to take him to the wise healer in the Chiri-san Mountains. Fortunately, it turned out nothing was wrong—he simply has a very strong omega. Dominant and, you know… fiery.”
“Mother! For heaven’s sake!”
“What? I’m just trying to help my son find a good omega.”
“You’re wonderful, but you know the omega I choose can’t just be ordinary. They have to be intelligent and possess leadership qualities, just as Father wanted.”
“Oh, forget your father! What does he know? Unlike alphas, all omegas are intelligent and capable. Trust me, and choose Jimin. He’s turned down every alpha who’s ever come to his door. His reputation extends beyond the mountains. Do you know how many alphas have come to our village after hearing about him? All of them fell at his feet, dazzled by his beauty, and he rejected every single one. No gifts, jewels, or promises could sway him. He’s been waiting for you all these years.”
“Or maybe he just wants to be the leader alpha’s mate.”
“No, he wants to be Alpha Yoonie’s mate, just like he said when he was a child. I can feel his love and loyalty.” Sang Hee placed a hand on her son’s shoulder, gazing into his eyes. “He will make you so happy, my dear. You won’t regret it.”
Yoongi wanted that more than anything. God knew, declaring Jimin as his mate, bonding with him that very night, and ordering wedding preparations the next morning was perhaps the thing he desired most in his life. But he couldn’t. He couldn’t ignore his father’s teachings, and no matter what his mother said, he would follow his own path.
Sang Hee seemed to realize this, her gaze softening with sadness. “Follow your heart,” she said gently. “I understand your loyalty to your father, but I’m asking you to choose a mate, not a leader omega. Once you bond, there’s no turning back. I can’t bear to see you unhappy.”
Yoongi forced a smile. “Don’t worry. I’ll do the right thing.”
Sang Hee sighed. Her son’s stubbornness had been her greatest challenge since he was a child. She was about to try one last time to change his mind when she noticed an omega approaching them.
“Honored Omega Sang Hee,” Jimin said with a sweet smile and a soft tone. “It’s been a wonderful evening, but I need to leave now. I can’t leave my mother alone for too long. I wanted to say goodbye before I go.”
Jimin had assumed that Yoongi would choose Yeonjun, who had clung to his side all night, garnering attention, and he didn’t want to stay to see the moment they were sent off to begin their bond. Yet he couldn’t leave without bidding farewell to Sang Hee, who had always been kind and supportive of his family.
Sang Hee threw Yoongi a scathing look before pulling Jimin closer and placing a hand on his back. “Jimin-ah! So soon? The chosen omega hasn’t even been announced yet!”
Her maternal instincts made her want to scold Yoongi right then and there. He’d spent so much time with the other omegas, especially Yeonjun, that Jimin was convinced he wouldn’t be chosen.
“You know my mother is alone. I need to make sure she’s okay and that she’s eaten.”
Jimin’s mother had been Sang Hee’s friend since their youth, and ever since losing her husband, the poor woman had suffered from a mysterious illness that even the village healer couldn’t cure. Still, Sang Hee couldn’t let Jimin leave just like that. Looking around, she said, “Let me find someone to check on your mother for you.”
“There’s no need, really,” Jimin replied. But his gaze, now fixed on Yoongi, was so heartbreakingly sad that Yoongi’s wolf growled, ready to tear apart anyone who had caused such pain.
Fool, his wolf hissed. You can’t let him leave.
Luckily, Yoongi agreed. His plan for choosing a mate required Jimin to stay.
“Omega,” he said in an authoritative tone, “I want you to stay. I’m about to make an announcement regarding my choice of mate, and your presence is necessary.”
Two omegas glaring daggers at Yoongi flinched simultaneously at his commanding voice. Sang Hee, with a swift motion, pushed Jimin closer to Yoongi—nearly into his lap—and said, “I’ll find someone to check on your mother.” Then she strode away briskly.
For a moment, the two of them shared an awkward silence. While the others sipped their drinks and continued their conversations, Yoongi and Jimin were finally alone in a secluded corner. Yoongi’s wolf was thoroughly pleased with the situation. The alpha, recalling his mother’s warning, tried to control his pheromones. Meanwhile, Jimin, in stark contrast to his confident demeanor that afternoon, had turned a delicate shade of pink, his gaze fixed on the ground. Yoongi found himself captivated by his beauty once again.
Choose him, his wolf growled, almost snarling. Let’s take him home and give him a real reason to blush.
Yoongi nearly lost control at the thought, his body betraying him.
Aren’t you curious if the rest of him is blushing too? his wolf teased. If not, we can fix that. Those gorgeous hips would look stunning bright red.
Yoongi cleared his throat, trying to calm his wolf and banish the indecent thoughts.
He took two large gulps from his wine glass, as though the liquid could drown his desires, and asked, “Why are you so eager to leave?” His voice came out gruff.
Jimin didn’t look at him. His gaze was on Yeonjun, who was smirking and chatting with other omegas who had also given up hope of being chosen.
“I thought you’d already made your choice.”
“I haven’t chosen anyone yet.”
“But you said—”
“Yes, I know what I said,” Yoongi interrupted, setting his glass aside. “I think it’s time I ended the suspense.”
Leaving Jimin behind, Yoongi stepped into the center of the gathering and announced a decision that would make history in the pack: he had chosen three candidates to compete for the role of his mate—Park Jimin, Choi Yeonjun, and Han Jisu. The candidates were to spend the entire next day with Yoongi and his advisory council to prove they had the qualities necessary to be the leader omega.
The announcement stunned everyone. The elders were scandalized, while others were left in shock. Sang Hee, on the verge of fainting, managed to stay on her feet. Of course, no one dared to object. Perhaps, once the festival was over, Sang Hee would find Yoongi in private and scold him for not choosing Jimin outright.
As the festival came to a close, Yoongi returned to where Jimin still stood. He finally saw that cheeky smile reappear on the omega’s lips, and both he and his wolf were delighted. Yoongi loved Jimin’s boldness.
“An interesting way to choose a mate,” Jimin remarked, his sparkling eyes fixed on Yoongi.
“Oh? Why do you say that?”
“Because you’re just delaying the inevitable.”
“You were acting like a scared kitten earlier, and now you’ve unsheathed your claws again.”
“I thought you were going to choose Yeonjun. You broke my heart.”
Yoongi paused for a moment. He had no intention of hurting him, nor did he understand why Jimin would think that. Hadn’t he noticed how Yoongi’s gaze had been glued to him all night?
“I wanted to take a different approach to selecting my mate,” Yoongi replied.
“So, if beauty were your only criterion, would you have chosen Yeonjun?”
“No. If that were the case, I would have bonded with you the moment I saw you.”
Jimin felt as though he might drown. His breath hitched, and he shifted slightly in place, his body burning as though set aflame. Beneath the golden glow of the lanterns strung up in the trees, his eyes shimmered like precious jewels, gazing at Yoongi with an intensity that melted the alpha from within. Overwhelmed by the compliment, his heart pounded wildly, and he took a small step back.
Yoongi had been his first love, after all. As a child, when Yoongi was a young and inexperienced alpha, Jimin had been captivated by him, and he’d never loved anyone else since. His heart, soul, body, and omega had all belonged to Yoongi, even when he had spent years turning away every alpha who came knocking on his door, even enduring his heats alone in his loyalty to Yoongi. He had never regretted it. Yoongi would come to him. He knew it.
Jimin’s gaze briefly flitted to Yeonjun, who stood in the corner, watching them with narrowed eyes. The crowd was dispersing, but Yeonjun’s displeasure was evident.
Jimin smirked and turned back to Yoongi. With a graceful hand, he placed a delicate palm on Yoongi’s shoulder, rose onto his tiptoes, and pressed the lightest of kisses to the alpha’s smooth cheek. Their pheromones collided like two lovers reuniting after years apart, blending in perfect harmony. Jimin had been right—the scent of the ocean suited Yoongi exquisitely.
“Alpha Min,” Jimin whispered, his lips hovering just below Yoongi’s ear. “I wish you all the luck in the world.” Then he pulled back to see Yoongi’s stunned expression. His hand remained on Yoongi’s shoulder, the distance between them small.
“Luck?” Yoongi asked in disbelief. “You’re wishing me luck?”
“Mmhmm. For tomorrow. It’ll be a tough day for you.”
“Why’s that?”
“Because every time you see me, you’ll have to fight the urge to bond with me.” Jimin’s mischievous smile returned as the scent of iris enveloped Yoongi once more. “Goodnight, Alpha Min. Let’s meet in our dreams.”
As Jimin walked away, all Yoongi was left with was his intoxicating scent and the lingering feel of his small hand on his shoulder.
***
The following day, an unusual atmosphere filled the two-story historic building designated for the pack’s administrative matters. Even Yoongi’s father, the famously egalitarian Min Jungho, had never allowed omegas inside this building except for menial tasks. Yet, here were three omegas seated side by side, just to the right of the rectangular table where Yoongi sat at the head, in the room where strategic decisions were made.
Jisu looked utterly bored, Yeonjun seemed painfully nervous, and Jimin wore a serene expression that inexplicably calmed Yoongi’s restless mind.
It wasn’t exactly a moment for calm, though. That morning, scouts sent weeks ago to patrol the borders near one of the savage and warlike packs had been found barely alive. A coded message was retrieved from the soldier, but with his consciousness still clouded, they had no way of understanding its contents. The encryption wasn’t familiar to the Min pack, and Yoongi suspected the soldier had stolen it from a messenger belonging to another pack, risking his life to deliver it.
Taehyung, Yoongi’s right-hand man, glanced briefly at the paper lying on the table’s center. “It might not be anything significant,” he said casually. “They can’t afford to break the truce. It probably doesn’t even concern us.”
Jimin didn’t agree but chose to remain silent. He had visited the injured scout in the infirmary before coming to this meeting, checking on his condition and leaving a pot of soup with the attendant in case the man woke up. Jimin had prayed for him as well. His father had once been a soldier, and Jimin couldn’t help but feel for the poor man’s family. No one risked their life for nothing.
Still, he wasn’t about to argue with Alpha Min’s right-hand man. And, if he were honest, Jimin found Kim Taehyung intimidating, despite knowing he had recently married his closest friend. Jungkook often assured him that Taehyung wasn’t as harsh as he seemed, but Jimin couldn’t shake his apprehension.
“It’s definitely important,” Yoongi said, shaking his head. “We can’t overlook it.”
“Alright,” Taehyung said, leaning back in his chair with an amused smirk. His mischievous eyes landed on the three omegas seated opposite him. “Then let’s hear what the omegas think. Yeonjun? What’s your take on it?”
Taehyung found Yoongi’s effort to determine his mate through this process entirely unnecessary. Like most alphas, Yoongi could’ve just listened to his wolf’s instincts, but his childhood friend refused to budge. At least it made for some entertainment for Taehyung.
Yeonjun squirmed under Taehyung’s gaze, clearly uncomfortable. He wasn’t interested in the topic at all. Why couldn’t he just live a comfortable life adorned with jewels and silks as the leader alpha’s mate?
“Well,” he began hesitantly, “I completely agree with the Honorable Alpha.”
Then came a heavy silence.
Yoongi’s brow furrowed, while Taehyung’s grin widened. Leaning forward, Taehyung fixed his sharp eyes on Yeonjun. “And?”
“And,” Yeonjun continued sweetly, “I’m sure our Honorable Alpha will resolve this matter swiftly.”
Taehyung leaned back again, unimpressed. “That’s what I thought.”
Jimin, on the other hand, wanted to slap Yeonjun. Really, he did. He could’ve also snatched away the pursed lips Yeonjun used to deliver his saccharine words. While he was at it, he wouldn’t mind giving Taehyung a piece of his mind either.
“May I see the message?” Jimin spoke for the first time since the meeting began, and Yoongi’s shining gaze immediately found him. Jimin met it without hesitation. “Honorable Alpha?” he asked respectfully. “May I?”
At that moment, Yoongi’s thoughts drifted to Jimin’s parting words the night before. Let’s meet in our dreams, Jimin had said, and Yoongi had spent all night dreaming of holding him in his arms. Now, staring at Jimin’s beautiful face, all Yoongi could think about were those dreams. It had been one of the most vivid and intoxicating dreams he’d ever had. He had woken up drenched in sweat, his body burning as though Jimin’s lips were still wrapped around him.
Focus, a voice in his head warned. This is not the time.
“Of course,” Yoongi said, handing over the paper. Under his breath, he muttered a string of thoughts that, thankfully, no one else could hear.
Jimin studied the seemingly nonsensical letters on the paper for a moment. His father, who had been a senior soldier until the day he died, had been skilled in many areas. Among his numerous talents, he had taught Jimin horseback riding, swordsmanship, and archery—skills typically reserved for alphas.
And cryptography.
One of Park Minho’s passions had been encryption techniques, and while Jimin wasn’t as skilled as his father, he was capable enough.
He laid the paper flat on the table and leaned over it, his face taking on a serious expression. Without thinking, Yoongi handed him a pen he had been toying with, watching in awe as Jimin calmly bit off the cap and got to work. Yoongi held his breath as he watched Jimin, whose serene focus seemed to make him glow. In that moment, Yoongi wanted nothing more than to lean over and kiss him.
“Hmm,” Jimin murmured. “Just as I thought. Traditional encryption techniques rely on two methods: transposition and substitution. Northern packs primarily use the former. Since they’re isolated from overseas countries, they maintain their old traditions, and this simple method is convenient for their communications.” He began circling letters with the pen, his brows furrowed in concentration. “Alpha Han Jisung’s book on transposition techniques describes four main approaches. If I’m not mistaken, this code matches the third method exactly. Here we go.”
Jimin continued arranging the circled letters into a meaningful sentence. When he finished, he read the message again and smiled, satisfied. Only then did he notice the room’s occupants staring at him in astonishment.
First, he raised an eyebrow at Taehyung in a pointed glance, then turned to Yoongi—the only alpha whose opinion mattered to him.
Yoongi was spellbound. Utterly mesmerized. Right then and there, he wanted to dismiss everyone else and lay Jimin across the table, which was covered with the region’s maps. The small, spoiled omega who used to follow him around had grown into someone breathtakingly beautiful, intelligent, and composed.
He’s the one, his wolf growled. Why are you dragging this out? Take him home and solve all his mysteries. Just look at that mouth. That thing between his lips doesn’t have to be a pen cap.
For once, Yoongi wholeheartedly agreed with his wolf.
Still, he was the leader alpha, and he had to control himself. Pushing his instincts aside, he reached for the paper and read the message written in Jimin’s immaculate handwriting. There was no immediate cause for alarm, but it seemed the two northern packs they had signed a truce with years ago were growing closer. Yoongi would need to stay vigilant against any soldiers testing their borders.
“Perfect,” Yoongi said, his dreamy gaze returning to Jimin. “Absolutely remarkable.”
The other alphas at the table echoed their agreement with expressions of admiration. Even Taehyung looked surprised, though he couldn’t resist a playful nudge to an elder alpha seated beside him. “See? My omega’s friend. Perfect taste, just like him.”
The only ones displeased were Jisu, Yeonjun, and the grumpy elder alpha who fixed Jimin with a sharp glare.
“And how exactly do you know all this?” Alpha Chang-wook demanded. “Omegas don’t receive any formal education, and this is a serious matter. Why should we trust you?”
“My father was a good soldier,” Jimin replied. “He taught me everything he knew. Unlike other alphas, he didn’t believe omegas should be confined to their homes.” He shot a sharp look at Chang-wook and the other alphas. “I understand your reluctance to trust me.”
The alphas were visibly uncomfortable with Jimin’s boldness. Seeking support, Jimin placed a hand on Jisu’s shoulder. “But you can’t break a bird’s wings and then blame it for not flying. Perhaps it’s time omegas were allowed to pursue education and careers.”
For a moment, the room fell into deafening silence. Such words had never been spoken by an omega, especially not in front of senior alphas. Jisu shrugged off Jimin’s hand, not wanting to get caught in the middle of controversy, while Yeonjun looked smug, expecting Yoongi to reprimand Jimin.
But that didn’t happen.
Yoongi gazed at Jimin as though he were about to melt. He was on the verge of rising from his chair to kiss Jimin’s forehead and thank him for being so incredible—for never letting him down.
See? his wolf gloated. Beautiful and brilliant. Kick everyone out and lay him on that table.
Yoongi had stopped fighting his wolf. Since the moment he first saw Jimin, he had been reacting in ways no other omega had ever made him react. Everything about Jimin set his heart racing.
“In the coming days, I’ll make sure to implement improvements for omegas,” Yoongi promised, locking eyes with Jimin. It was the first vow he made to him, and he knew it wouldn’t be the last. He wanted to lay the world at Jimin’s feet. Everything Jimin said or wanted, Yoongi longed to grant it, just to see him smile like he was now.
Jimin, ignoring everyone else, reached across the table and placed his hand over Yoongi’s. “Honorable Alpha,” he said in a tone that nearly made Yoongi growl, “I’m grateful to you. I hope you won’t struggle too much in choosing the person to stand by your side.”
Taehyung nearly burst into laughter. If anyone asked his opinion, he’d tell Yoongi to send the other omegas home. It was obvious that Park Jimin was the one. He met every one of Yoongi’s lofty criteria, and his potential as a leader omega was undeniable.
Yoongi gently clasped Jimin’s hand, his thumb brushing over the soft skin. He adored touching him and could easily spend all his time doing so. His skin felt like silk under his fingers, so enticing that Yoongi almost leaned in to kiss his hand right then. If only they weren’t being watched.
Reluctantly, Jimin pulled his hand back, aware of the simmering anger emanating from the other two omegas. At least he had managed to keep his own wolf from losing control under Yoongi’s intoxicating touch.
“What about the scout?” Taehyung asked, breaking the moment. “Do we have any updates on his condition?”
“I visited the infirmary before coming here,” Jimin replied. “He’s still unconscious, but the healer said his condition is stable. After this meeting, I’ll visit his family. They have small children, and his wife will need support.”
As he spoke, Jimin’s expression dimmed, recalling the time when he lost his own father. He still remembered how much the leader omega’s support had meant to his family, and he knew how comforting it was to have someone knock on your door in times of need.
“Always thinking of everything, aren’t you?”
Yeonjun’s snide remark didn’t faze Jimin, who leaned back in his chair with a serene smile. “Of course,” he said. “That’s what Alpha Min expects from us. If the leader alpha has to think of everything, what’s the point of him marrying? Besides, our pack has always looked out for one another.”
This time, Taehyung couldn’t hold back his laughter. “Touché!” he said with a grin, earning a withering glare from Yeonjun.
As the meeting adjourned and everyone began to leave, Yoongi deliberately lingered, and Jimin followed his lead. Yeonjun noticed, of course, and nearly turned back from the door, only for Taehyung to intercept him, claiming he needed advice on beadwork.
Finally alone, Yoongi slid his chair closer to Jimin’s. The moment he did, Jimin seemed to bloom, his iris scent enveloping them like a warm embrace.
“I should’ve listened to my wolf,” Yoongi admitted, breaking the silence.
Jimin, hands folded neatly on the table, sat quietly, his head bowed. He wanted to look at Yoongi, but he also enjoyed the effect his modesty had on the alpha. Slowly, he raised his head and glanced at Yoongi from the corner of his eye. “And what did your wolf say?” he asked, though he had a good idea already. His omega had gleefully relayed every indecent thought Yoongi’s wolf had shared—thoughts of seeing Jimin writhing in his bed or exploring the scent glands on his neck.
But Yoongi’s response surprised him.
“He told me to bond with you immediately,” Yoongi confessed. “I ignored my wolf’s instincts, trying to rely on my own judgment. As if we weren’t one, as if he didn’t know what I wanted or what was best for me. But he did. He always did.”
Yoongi reached out and twirled a lock of Jimin’s blond hair around his finger, making the omega hold his breath. “I can’t imagine anyone more suited to be the leader omega, but more importantly, as a 33-year-old man, I’ve realized you’re the partner I’ve been searching for all my life.”
Yoongi leaned closer, inhaling the soothing scent emanating from Jimin’s neck. “Jimin-ah, tonight, I’m going to ask you to become my mate—my Honored Omega.”
Jimin’s heart pounded like a drum, his pheromones spiraling out of control as his wolf celebrated with gleeful howls. It was everything he had ever wanted.
“So you enjoy making me wait, don’t you?” Jimin teased, trying to regain some composure.
“Never!” Yoongi said quickly, pulling back to look at him. “I was only trying to do what was right. As much as I want you, I have to think of the pack too.”
Jimin smiled and reached out to stroke Yoongi’s chin with delicate fingers, his touch as soft and comforting as a gentle breeze. Yoongi melted into the touch, savoring it.
“It’s alright,” Jimin said, retracting his hand. He moved his chair closer to Yoongi’s, his scent and plump lips tantalizingly near. Leaning forward, he whispered, “But you can be sure I’ll make you pay for it later.”
Yoongi’s half-lidded eyes widened at the playful threat.
“Alphas like you need to be disciplined,” Jimin added with a sly grin.
“Oh?” Yoongi raised an eyebrow, his voice thick with tension. “You talk as if you’ve dealt with alphas like me before.”
Yoongi recalled his mother’s words about Jimin, how he had turned away every suitor and endured his heats alone, waiting only for Yoongi. He knew Jimin was completely inexperienced.
“I haven’t,” Jimin admitted, “but my wolf is an excellent guide. And far more ruthless than I am.”
“Is that so?” Yoongi replied, his gaze growing darker as the tension between them reached a boiling point. If he laid Jimin across the table right now and claimed him, who would blame him?
“I have big plans for you, Alpha,” Jimin murmured.
“I can’t wait to hear them.”
Jimin leaned closer, his warm breath teasing Yoongi’s lips and neck without making contact. “Patience,” he whispered. “That way, you’ll do more than just hear them.”
“Jimin,” Yoongi growled, his control slipping.
“Alpha Min,” Jimin replied, his tone dripping with mischief.
“You know I’m going to ruin you, don’t you?”
“Ah,” Jimin’s sultry gaze met Yoongi’s. At the same time, his hand rested dangerously high on Yoongi’s thigh, just shy of his groin. Yoongi tensed, barely holding back. “You’ll have to be more specific. Ruin doesn’t mean much to me.”
Yoongi, knowing full well Jimin was teasing, asked, “Hasn’t any alpha ever treated you the way you deserve?” He would’ve rather died than hear a yes.
“You’ll be the first to ruin me,” Jimin replied, his hand inching higher. Yoongi fought with all his might not to lose himself, but it was nearly impossible with Jimin looking so angelic and devilish at the same time. “I’ll be entirely yours,” Jimin added, withdrawing his hand from Yoongi’s leg only to grip his chin firmly. “And from now on, you’ll be entirely mine. I don’t care what you’ve done in the past, but from now on, all of you belongs to me.”
“I have no objections.”
Satisfied, Jimin smirked. “Then I might just let you bond with me.”
Yoongi adored Jimin’s playful nature. He had expected to find a mate upon returning to his pack, but he had never imagined it would be Park Jimin. That he would be so irresistible, so utterly captivating, had completely taken Yoongi by surprise.
Before leaving the meeting room, Yoongi gave in to his need to touch Jimin again. He cupped his face, pressing kisses to his forehead and eyelids. Jimin clung to Yoongi’s wrists, silently praying this wasn’t a dream. After how much Yoongi had focused on Yeonjun the previous night, Jimin had been convinced he wouldn’t be chosen. Yet here he was, melting in the hands of an alpha who had never hesitated to claim him as his destined mate.
“Alpha Min,” Jimin whispered, Yoongi’s warm breath grazing his skin like fire.
Yoongi chuckled softly at the formal address, pulling back just enough to meet his eyes. “My future Honored Omega,” he replied.
Jimin immediately flushed bright red.
Of course, he had thought about this moment, and he was confident he could handle it. But Yoongi’s reasons for marrying him had never mattered to Jimin. That’s why he took Yoongi’s hand and placed it over his heart. “I give you my heart,” he said earnestly. “And all I ask for is yours in return.”
Min Yoongi had traveled far and met many people in his life, but nothing had ever made his heart race as wildly as it did now.
***