Chapter Text
Detective Deputy Chief Kwon Soonyoung wasn’t the kind of police man who earned respect by rank alone. He had climbed the ranks faster than most, his combination of skill, intuition, and determination marking him as exceptional from early in his career. In fact, he was one of the youngest officers to ever reach the position of Deputy Chief. A distinction that drew both admiration and scrutiny. Yet those who worked with him quickly learned that his rise was no fluke. He earned every promotion through talent, experience, and a dedication to this job that few could match.
He was known as an Alpha man who didn’t stay behind a desk, even as second in command under the chief. When cases called for hands-on work, especially high risk cases, Soonyoung didn’t hesitate. He went into the field himself, side by side with his team, facing dangers that most officers of his rank would avoid.
His reputation had been built on countless high-profile investigations. Syndicates that exploited omegas, traffickers who thought they were untouchable, criminals who preyed on the vulnerable. Soonyoung had brought them down, time and again. Yet, despite the nature of his word, he is still very much a warm and approachable person, which made him admired beyond the bounds of authority. New officers entering the force often looked to him as a role model, inspired by his skill, his courage, and the way he treated everyone with fairness and respect.
Despite his authority, he was surprisingly fun and chill. He had a way of making even tense operations bearable, joking with his team when he could, celebrating small victories, and reminding everyone that behind the uniform was a human being who cared. He demanded excellence, yes—but he also gave his heart to the work, to the victims, and to the people who served under him.
Soonyoung’s hands-on approach wasn’t just about his self pride; it was about trust. He believed in leading by example. If he asked his officers to go into the field, to risk themselves, to face danger, he would be there alongside them. That authenticity, coupled with his years of experience and his unbelievable instincts, made him both respected and deeply liked. You can truly say that he earned every ounce of loyalty.
It was no wonder that his presence alone could lift morale, that his team trusted his judgment with no second thoughts, and that even those outside his line of job know of him as the skillful police officer who has a heart of gold.
Detective Deputy Chief Kwon Soonyoung was not just a leader; he was a force of nature and beneath it all, there was a fire in him that drove every action, every decision, every case. And it is his commitment to justice, and to those who could not protect themselves.
The precinct smelled faintly of coffee and disinfectant, a mix Soonyoung had grown used to over the years. The fluorescent lights overhead mingled with the occasional chatter of officers walking briskly through the hallways. Soonyoung leaned back in his chair, spinning the small desk chair he sometimes forgot he even needed, eyes scanning the latest reports sprawled across his desk. His office, tucked in the corner of the building, was modest for someone of his rank, but he liked it that way. Here, amidst stacks of case files, mugshots, and photos of crime scenes, he felt most at home.
He had solved cases others had abandoned, chased down leads that vanished like smoke, and taken down syndicates that preyed on the vulnerable. High-profile criminal organizations that exploited omegas for sex trafficking, manipulation, and worse. You bet, he had seen it all. And he had never let it go.
Even with all his experience, Soonyoung could never forget the first mission that truly shook him to his core. It had started like any other investigation. Tracking leads and following whispers of a network that preyed on the most vulnerable but nothing had prepared him for the horrors he would uncover. The place had been pitch dark, the air was filled with rot and the metallic tang of blood. He remembered the moment he unzipped one of the luggages they recovered from a trunk of an abandoned car, was the decaying naked body of a very young omega, probably a kid due to how small the body is, staring back at him, infested with maggots, the life that had once burned so brightly snuffed out violently. He had almost thrown up on the spot, the nausea and revulsion coiling in his stomach, but he forced himself to stay. Every sense screamed at him to turn away, but he couldn’t, he needed to further investigate.
From then, he couldn’t fathom how some humans could be so vile, so cruel and so devoid of any shred of humanity. That mission had left a permanent mark on him, it was forever embedded in him. An unshakable reminder of why he had chosen this path, why he would never stop, and why he would always fight with every ounce of himself for those who could not fight back.
Every time an omega victim smiled at him, even in the briefest moment of relief after being rescued, it reminded him why he endured the long nights, the cold stares of criminals, and the constant paranoia for you and for your loved ones safety with such a dangerous job.
Deputy Chief Kwon wasn’t just a brilliant officer. Well, he was also single, and had been for most of his adult life. Love, he had learned, was complicated when his job demanded every ounce of his attention and energy. On top of that, he wasn’t just single; he was a single father. At twenty-two, he had rescued a baby, now a six-year-old girl, from a dangerous situation and legally adopted her, raising her as his own. Ever since, his daughter had been his top priority. Romantic relationships, no matter how fleetingly appealing, always came second.
That wasn’t to say he didn’t attract attention. Many of his omega subordinates and colleagues, both male and female, had quietly nursed crushes on him over the years. A few had even tried dating him, drawn to everything wonderful about him. But Soonyoung had always kept a polite distance. He could not and would not ask anyone to step into the life of a father he loved more than anything else. Anyone serious about him would have to understand that his daughter came first, and few were willing to accept that reality. When he tried dating a few before they couldn’t accept their daughter so he guess, fuck it then, he’ll die as an unmarried man then.
Yet despite the sacrifices, there’s satisfaction in his life. His career had been meteoric. He told himself on time that he is handsome, confident, and unflinchingly competent. He had earned respect not only through his rapid rise but also because of how he led. He could not have it all and probably one of those things that won’t ever be his was a stable lovelife.
It’s not that he had fallen deeply in love with any omegas before, he barely spared a glance at anyone before…..
….And then there was Jihoon.
The first time Soonyoung had seen him walk into the precinct, he had almost missed him among the sea of officers, detectives, and staff. But he knew there’s something special about Jihoon that made him stop in his tracks. For sure, he undeniably possesses such a pretty face that actually made quite a number of heads turn when he entered the room, and that probably part of the reason too but what drew him the most was the way he carried himself with both intelligence and a hint of melancholy. His shoulder length onyx black hair catching the light, eyes sharp with curiosity and thought, and an aura that seemed to command attention without demanding it. Soonyoung had been smitten from the first glance, though he had no idea Jihoon was an omega. That didn’t matter. All he knew was that he wanted to see him, talk to him, and somehow be near him whenever he could.
Lee Jihoon is an attorney working in the government, specialized in offering free legal assistance to omegas who had been victims of sexual trafficking, abuse, and exploitation. His dedication was admirable, due to him being very intelligent a lot of law firms have been so desperate to hire him but he stayed loyal with his current job despite it paying less than the privileges and opportunities being offered to him on a silver platter.
Despite Attorney Lee’s usual serious personality, it was obvious to anyone watching that he carried invisible walls around him, carefully shielding himself from the world. In his line of work, that caution made sense; he dealt with humanity at its worst, representing victims whose pain ran far deeper than most could imagine. But it wasn’t only professional caution. Jihoon had scars, trust issues from past betrayals he wasn’t ready to unveil, and he always wore scent blockers to hide his omega nature—a precaution not strictly necessary for his role but telling of the care he took with his own safety. Combined with his poised, controlled demeanor, it led almost everyone, even Soonyoung, to assume he was a beta.
Every time Jihoon entered the precinct, Soonyoung’s heart thudded a little faster. Today was no exception. He watched as Jihoon adjusted his blazer, carried his briefcase gracefully, and greeted officers politely but without unnecessary chitchats, he is known for always getting straight to the point afterall. Every movement of his seemed planned out, every glance intentional and utterly captivating.
Soonyoung reminded himself to stay professional. He had to. His career, his reputation and the lives of victims, they all demanded focus. Yet when Jihoon looked up at him, even briefly, and offered a small, polite smile, Soonyoung felt something stir deep in his chest, it felt like butterflies starting to fill and fly around in his stomach. He swore even his first highschool crush didn’t make him feel like. But he knows for sure that it wasn’t just a petty attraction. It was admiration and a longing to protect and to be close to the shorter male despite the invisible barriers he had built.
Soonyoung knew Jihoon probably didn't notice the subtle way his gaze lingered. He didn’t know about the simmering crush, the subtle tension that accompanied every shared moment in the precinct. All he saw was another part of the complex machinery of law enforcement. The competent, responsible, and entirely untouchable Deputy Chief. That suited him fine.
The mixtures of sounds in the precinct, pulled Soonyoung from his reverie, phones ringing, officers typing reports, radios crackling with updates from patrols. He found his focus divided and it’s unusual for him to lose his focus on whatever he is doing. He shook his head.
Now is not the time to dream about Jihoon, the genius lawyer who didn’t know the depth of Soonyoung’s feelings, or the fact that an alpha like him could feel so utterly captivated by someone who seemed so untouchable.
And speaking of the devil….
Soonyoung rose from his chair the moment he saw Jihoon approach his office door with his briefcase in hand.
“Morning, Jihoon,” he greeted, trying his best to keep his voice steady, though his chest skipped a beat. “I wasn’t expecting you until the meeting, actually. Is everything okay?”
Jihoon offered a small, polite smile. “Morning, Deputy Chief Kwon. Yes, everything’s fine. I came by early to review the case files for the omega that was brought in last night.” He placed the briefcase on the corner of Soonyoung’s desk, careful not to disturb the stack of papers. “I thought it’d be better to go over the details before the rest of the team arrives.”
Soonyoung nodded, leaning against the desk. “Makes sense. We rescued her around midnight, so things are still being processed. I’ve got the preliminary report here.” He pushed a folder toward Jihoon. “There’s a lot we don’t know yet—her statement’s still being verified, and she’s in protective custody. I thought you might want to read it before the interview.”
Jihoon picked up the folder, his fingers brushing against Soonyoung’s briefly. Soonyoung felt a spark that he quickly suppressed, pretending to busy himself with his own notes.
“Thank you,” Jihoon said, his tone was always calm and somewhat precise, as if he were trained not to give anything away. “I’ll review it thoroughly. I’ll need to meet with her later today to ensure she understands her legal rights, and to start the paperwork for her case.”
Soonyoung nodded again, trying not to stare. “Of course. I can have one of my detectives escort you to the interview room when you’re ready. We’ll make sure she’s comfortable.”
Jihoon’s eyes flicked up at him. “I appreciate that. I know the victims trust your department, Deputy Chief, but I also want to make sure my clients feel safe with someone who isn’t just from the law enforcement.”
There it was, the distance that Jihoon always manage to put in between them. Soonyoung felt it hit harder than it should have. “I understand,” he said smoothly. “You’ll get full cooperation. We take care of our omegas, Jihoon. You don’t have to worry about that.”
For a moment, Jihoon’s gaze softened just slightly, though he quickly masked it behind his professional composure. “I trust your experience, Deputy Chief Kwon. That’s why I’m here.”
Soonyoung allowed himself a small smile. “Good. And… if there’s anything I can do to help beyond the usual procedure, you let me know. No one’s going to slip through the cracks on my watch.”
Jihoon closed the folder carefully, standing straighter. “Understood. I’ll start reviewing the files, then. Thank you for taking the time to brief me.”
As Jihoon turned to leave, Soonyoung’s voice softened just enough that it wasn’t overt but carried the warmness he didn’t dare show fully. “Jihoon… glad you’re here.”
Jihoon paused for a fraction of a second, acknowledging it, but said nothing. He simply nodded and walked toward the elevator, briefcase in hand. Soonyoung watched him go, chest tightening in a way he wasn’t quite ready to admit, already looking forward to the next time they interact again.
----
Soonyoung moved around in his chair, glancing down at the files before him, but his mind was elsewhere. The moment Jihoon had stepped into the office earlier, he’d been transported back to that very first day he had interacted him.
It had been a late afternoon, the precinct unusually quiet as most of the officers were out on patrol or handling paperwork elsewhere. Soonyoung had been reviewing a case file when he heard a soft knock and he told whoever was outside to come in, the door opened softly, and a short, slender figure entered whose presence seemed to illuminate the room.
It was Jihoon
Even in the ugly fluorescent lighting of the precinct, he had looked almost unreal. During that time his hair was still blonde, falling just enough to catch the light, pale skin flawless under the harsh bulbs, and eyes that seemed to see everything without giving away a single thought behind his spectacles. Soonyoung remembered how his chest had suddenly tightened, how his normally calm demeanor had faltered for a split second. He had been blushing. An alpha in his late twenties, and here he was, flustered over a young attorney, how ridiculous is that?
He had tried to straighten, clearing his throat. “Uh… you must be Jihoon, the new legal liaison for the omegas?”
Jihoon had smiled softly, a polite curve of his lips that made Soonyoung’s stomach do flips. “Yes, Deputy Chief Kwon. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” The tone of his voice was professional but Soonyoung swore he could hear friendliness underneath it, like sunlight peeking through clouds.
Soonyoung nodded, fumbling slightly with the papers in his hands. “Pleasure… yes, of course. I, uh, I wanted to brief you on our current case load… make sure you had all the necessary information you’d need for your clients.” His words stumbled over themselves, betraying how nervous he suddenly felt. Soonyoung coughed and tried his best to regain composure.
Jihoon had tilted his head slightly, giving him a look that was equal parts curious and amused. “Thank you. I do appreciate your help, Deputy Chief. I want to make sure everything goes smoothly for the victims. I’ve read the briefs from the other units, but I wanted to hear directly from you. I’ve heard… a lot about you.” He paused, then smiled softly. “About how you don’t just stay in the office issuing commands or attending meetings. How, even as the Deputy Chief, you get your hands dirty, the way you did back when you were a low-ranking detective. That’s… rare.”
Soonyoung blinked, caught off guard, his usual confidence faltering. “Oh… that. Well… I just… if I’m going to ask my officers to do it, I should be willing to do it myself.”
Jihoon’s smile deepened, and there was a gentle, teasing lilt to his voice. “I can see why your team respects you and why young officers look up to you. You’re skilled, yes, but also… approachable. Fun, even. It must be inspiring to see their deputy chief jump into the action alongside them, rather than just staying behind a desk.”
Soonyoung felt his ears burn. He quickly glanced away, trying to hide the blush that threatened to spread across his face. “I… uh… thank you. That… means a lot.”
Jihoon leaned slightly closer, tilting his head in genuine interest. “I mean it. You’re… different from the usual executives. Most people in your position wouldn’t do half of what you do. And yet… here you are. Besides that you’re still pretty young.”
And then something happened that Soonyoung would never forget. As he handed Jihoon a folder, their fingers brushed. It was brief and accidental, but it felt electric. He had cleared his throat again, cheeks burning, trying to act professional. “Uh… sorry about that. Reflex, you know.”
Jihoon smiled again. “No harm done. I think it’s nice to have someone so… enthusiastic.”
Soonyoung had nearly choked internally at that word, his flustered alpha mind spinning. “Enthusiastic… yes, that’s me… uh, always… professional,” he muttered, wishing he could sink into the floor.
Jihoon’s smile lingered, and just like that, he had left Soonyoung standing there, heart racing, entirely captivated by the young, brilliant lawyer he had just met.
It was a small and fleeting interaction, but to Soonyoung, it was enchanted. His heart had raced, his mind spun, and yet he couldn’t help but admire the way Jihoon had seen him, not just as a commanding officer, but as the man who still cared deeply about every case, every officer and every victim.
And even now, years later, the memory made him smile faintly, remembering the polite, confident tone of Jihoon’s voice, the meaning behind his words, and the way he had made Soonyoung’s heart race.
----
The soft chime above the flower shop door rang as Soonyoung stepped inside, the faint fragrance of roses and lilies immediately wrapping around him. The place was cozy, filled with carefully arranged blooms in every corner, sunlight streaming through the windows to catch on petals and glass vases.
From behind the counter, Wonwoo looked up from trimming a bundle of tulips, his glasses sliding slightly down the bridge of his nose. “Long day?” he asked with a small smirk, brushing stray petals from his apron.
Soonyoung let out a sigh as he inhaled his Wonwoos familiar peony scented omega pheromones, but before he could answer, a high-pitched squeal echoed across the shop.
“Daddy!”
A tiny whirlwind in pink barreled toward him, his daughter, Heewon. She wore a frilly pink dress with little ruffles along the hem, her black hair tied into neat pigtails, each decorated with a pink ribbon that bounced as she ran. Her cheeks were flushed from excitement, eyes sparkling as she threw herself into his arms.
Soonyoung’s exhaustion melted instantly. He bent down, sweeping her up into his arms with ease, hugging her tight against his chest. “Princess!” he exclaimed, peppering kisses all over her round cheeks until she giggled uncontrollably, squirming but clinging to his neck all the same.
“How was school today?” he asked, shifting her to one arm so he could cup her tiny face with his free hand.
“It was great!” Heewon beamed, kicking her legs happily. “I got so many stars, Daddy. And—and I helped Uncle Wonwon make bouquets!”
Wonwoo chuckled from behind the counter, shaking his head in amusement. “She insisted on helping. And you know what? She actually made some very lovely ones. Might have to hire her part-time.”
Soonyoung’s eyes softened with pride as he looked back at his daughter. “Really? My little princess made bouquets? That’s amazing. I knew you were talented.” He kissed the top of her head, breathing in the faint scent of baby shampoo that lingered in her hair.
Heewon giggled again, burying her face into his shoulder, the pink ribbons in her hair brushing against his jaw.
He pinched her cheeks gently. “I’m the proudest dad in the world.”
Wonwoo leaned an elbow on the counter, watching them with mock disdain. “I swear, you turn into the cheesiest sap the second she’s in the room. Deputy Chief Kwon Soonyoung, feared by criminals and admired by cops, reduced to mush by a six-year-old.”
Soonyoung shot him a playful glare. “And what’s wrong with that? She’s my princess.” He tickled Heewon’s side, making her squeal in delight. “Right, baby?”
“Right!” she laughed.
Wonwoo snorted. “Unbelievable. You don’t even look at the women who swoon over you like that.”
Soonyoung raised a brow, still bouncing Heewon lightly in his arms. “What women?”
“Oh, please.” Wonwoo rolled his eyes. “Half your squad has a crush on you, and don’t get me started on the omegas who linger way too long at the station just to watch you walk by. You’re practically the precinct’s mascot.”
Soonyoung laughed while shaking his head. “That’s exaggerating.”
“Is it?” Wonwoo pressed, his lips twitching into a grin. “Or maybe you’re just too oblivious. Come on, Soonyoung, single dad or not, you’re young, good-looking, and you’ve got a good reputation. Don’t tell me you haven’t noticed.”
Soonyoung shrugged, kissing Heewon’s temple. “Not interested if they’re not ready to love her, too. She’s the whole package with me.”
At that, Wonwoo’s expression softened a little. Heewon, completely oblivious to the adult talk, was now playing with the buttons on her dad’s shirt, humming quietly.
“You’re too good for this world, Kwon Soonyoung,” Wonwoo muttered, shaking his head before smirking again. “But seriously, maybe there’s someone out there who’s both into you and okay with being an instant parent.”
Soonyoung gave a light laugh. “Yeah? You volunteering?”
Wonwoo gagged dramatically. “Gross. I’m your best friend, not your boyfriend.”
Heewon giggled at their exchange, though she didn’t quite understand it. “Uncle Wonwon’s funny.”
“Funny looking,” Soonyoung teased, earning a glare from Wonwoo.
“Keep it up,” Wonwoo warned, brandishing a pair of scissors he’d been using on stems. “I’ll cut your tongue.”
“You’d never,” Soonyoung shot back with mock seriousness. As he walked towards the counter to put Heewon there.
Heewon was now perched on the counter, swinging her little legs while clutching a ribbon she had “borrowed” from Wonwoo’s work table. Her cheeks puffed out into a pout as she looked between her father and her beloved uncle.
“Daddy Soonie,” she began with all the seriousness a six-year-old could muster, “why can’t you and Uncle Wonwon just be together instead?”
The question landed in the air like a dropped vase. Wonwoo froze mid–stem trimming, blinking in surprise, while Soonyoung stopped arranging the flowers he had been helping with.
Heewon huffed, folding her arms across her frilly pink dress. “Uncle Wonwon is already like my second daddy anyway. And he’s an omega, and you’re an alpha! You’re supposed to be a perfect match just like the story my teacher read us the other day. They’re best friends too, an alpha and an omega and they fell in love, then they gave birth to a little princess and lived in a castle happily ever after.”
Wonwoo’s ears went pink, and he let out an awkward cough to break the silence. He tried to laugh it off, but Heewon’s earnest gaze left him flustered. “Kids these days… they really just say whatever they want, huh?”
Soonyoung rubbed the back of his neck, struggling to hide his amusement at his daughter’s logic. He crouched down so he could look Heewon in the eyes. “Princess, Uncle Wonwon and I are best friends. And best friends don’t always fall in love with each other.”
“But why not?” she pressed, her nose wrinkling in confusion.
Wonwoo put down his scissors and gently tapped her on the head with a sprig of baby’s breath. “Because your daddy’s right. Some people are meant to stay best friends forever. And besides…” he hesitated, glancing at Soonyoung before smiling softly, “Uncle Wonwon is already seeing someone.”
Heewon blinked at him, lips forming a small “o.” Then she leaned toward her dad as if sharing a big secret. “But Daddy, don’t you think Uncle Wonwon deserves someone cool like you?”
Soonyoung chuckled, scooping her up into his arms again and peppering her cheeks with kisses until she squealed. “You’re too smart for your own good, my princess. But trust me, Uncle Wonwon deserves someone even better than me.”
Wonwoo rolled his eyes but couldn’t fight the grin tugging at his lips. “Well, I’m glad you finally admitted I deserve better than you,” he teased.
“Yah, don’t say that in front of my daughter!” Soonyoung shot back, mock offended, while Heewon giggled between them, delighted that her little suggestion had sparked so much fuss.
—
In Heewon’s little pink room, fairy lights twinkled above her bed, casting a soft glow on the walls decorated with crayon drawings and paper stars.
Soonyoung gently tucked the fluffy blanket up to his daughter’s chin, smoothing out the ruffles of her favorite dress she refused to change out of. She clutched her stuffed bunny tightly, its ears already worn from years of cuddles.
“Daddy Soonie,” she mumbled sleepily, blinking up at him with wide eyes.
“Yes, princess?” he asked, sitting on the edge of her bed, brushing back the ribbon that had slipped loose from her hair.
“You’re the best poliss… po-police… um, officer in the whole world.” She grinned proudly, stumbling over the word but saying it with such certainty that it melted his heart.
Soonyoung chuckled softly. “Oh really? The whole world? That’s a big title, you know.”
“Mmhm!” She nodded, her pigtails bouncing against the pillow. “You catch the bad guys! You’re like… like a superhero. But better, ‘cause you’re my daddy superhero.”
Her little hands reached up and squished his cheeks, making him laugh. “Superhero, huh? Do I need a cape then?”
“Yes!” she giggled, showing off her missing front tooth. “But not red! You look better in blue, Daddy.”
Soonyoung kissed her forehead, heart swelling. “I’ll keep that in mind, princess.”
There was a small pause before Heewon whispered, “Daddy… you won’t ever get hurt by the mean bad guys, right?” Her voice cracked just slightly, the way only a child’s hidden fear could.
Soonyoung’s chest tightened, but he kept his smile soft and reassuring. He pulled her closer, hugging her gently while rocking her side to side. “I promise, I’ll always come home to you. No matter what. Daddy’s really strong, remember?”
She buried her face against his shoulder, her voice muffled but full of trust. “Yeah… ‘cause you’re the strongest daddy in the whole wide world.”
He laid her back down carefully, tucking her bunny beside her arms, also removing her hair bows so she could sleep comfortably before placing a kiss on her forehead. “Sleep now, my little princess. Daddy will always be right here.”
Her eyelids grew heavy, and as she drifted off, she mumbled one last thing, barely above a whisper. “Love you, Daddy Soonie Night night…”
“I love you the most my little Heewon..”
Soonyoung stayed there for a while longer, watching her breathe peacefully, feeling the meaning of her words settle into his heart like the sweetest promise he could never break.
—
Soonyoung lingered in the doorway after carefully closing Heewon’s bedroom door, the faint glow of her fairy lights still visible through the crack. His little girl’s soft breathing played in his mind, and for a moment, he let himself exhale deeply. The badge on his chest carried honor and responsibility, but nothing compared to his duty of being her father. No matter how dangerous the world outside was, this home, this warmth, was the one place he would protect with everything in him.
“Hey,” Wonwoo’s voice drifted from the living room, pulling Soonyoung back from his thoughts. “How’d your day go, Deputy Chief?”
Soonyoung chuckled as he padded over, rolling his sleeves up. “Busy, as always. Paperwork stacked like mountains, and then a meeting that could’ve lasted half the time.” He plopped down onto the couch beside Wonwoo, who was already setting out the plates for their casual dinner together, something they’d been doing for years.
“Ah, the glamorous life of a big-shot cop,” Wonwoo teased, handing him a pair of chopsticks. “No wonder Heewon thinks you’re a superhero. You even fight paperwork.”
“Yah,” Soonyoung laughed, tapping the back of his friend’s head lightly. “Don’t make fun of me in front of my kid, she already thinks I’m perfect.”
Wonwoo smirked knowingly. “Oh, she’s blinded by love, just like her daddy.”
Soonyoung narrowed his eyes, then grinned mischievously. “Speaking of love… how’s Mingyu?”
Wonwoo nearly choked on his rice. “W-What?”
“I’m just asking.” Soonyoung leaned back, arms crossed and his smirk widening. “Tall, handsome guy, cooks for you, drives you around… sounds like a perfect boyfriend material to me.”
“Stop it,” Wonwoo muttered, his ears turning red. “We’re just… seeing each other. It’s nothing serious yet.”
“Uh-huh, sure,” Soonyoung teased, bumping his shoulder into his best friend’s. “I better be your best man at the wedding.”
Before Wonwoo could snap back, the television suddenly flashed breaking news. Both men turned to look, their laughter fading as the screen displayed a bold headline:
“Authorities Investigating Crimson Flames Syndicate Ties to Recent Omega Trafficking Operations.”
The news anchor’s voice filled the room, detailing raids, missing omegas, and whispers of the syndicate’s expansion.
Wonwoo glanced at Soonyoung, his expression serious. “Wait… isn’t that the case you told me you’ve been looking into?”
Soonyoung’s jaw tightened slightly, his playful demeanor replaced with focus. “Yeah,” he said quietly, nodding. “It’s the one. I’m working on it with a lawyer named Jihoon Lee.”
The name lingered in the air.
Soonyoung didn’t even realize how softly he’d said it until he caught the corner of Wonwoo’s smirk. His best friend leaned back on the couch, chopsticks dangling lazily in his hand, eyes gleaming with amusement.
“What?” Soonyoung asked, instantly suspicious.
Wonwoo tilted his head, studying him like he always did when he was about to pounce. “Nothing. Just… you said his name real nice.”
Soonyoung frowned, feigning ignorance. “I said it normal.”
“Nope.” Wonwoo grinned wider. “I’ve known you for over more than a decade, Soons. You’ve got tells. And right there? That wasn’t just some casual ‘I’m working with a lawyer.’ That was a ‘Jihoon Lee,’ with extra seasoning.”
“Seasoning?” Soonyoung threw him an incredulous look.
“Yup. The sprinkle of fondness. The pinch of admiration. The dash of—dare I say—interest.” Wonwoo’s chuckle filled the room as he jabbed his chopsticks in Soonyoung’s direction. “Don’t try to deny it. I can smell it a mile away.”
Soonyoung groaned, dragging a hand down his face. “God, you’re insufferable.”
“I’m observant,” Wonwoo corrected proudly, clearly enjoying himself. “So… what’s he like?”
Soonyoung hesitated, but his mind instantly conjured the image of Jihoon from earlier that day, the sharp lines of his face, the way his blonde hair caught the light, the intensity in his eyes when he spoke about victims like their pain was his own. The memory tugged at something in his chest.
“He’s… different,” Soonyoung admitted finally, his tone softer than before. “Aside from the fact that .. well he is cute .. You can tell he’s been through a lot, but… he still fights for people. Doesn’t back down.”
Wonwoo’s brows shot up, and he let out a low whistle. “Wow. Listen to you. That’s not just interest. That’s admiration. Respect. Maybe even a little bit of—”
“Stop right there,” Soonyoung warned, pointing his chopsticks at him like a weapon.
“—crush,” Wonwoo finished smugly, ignoring the threat.
Soonyoung groaned again, slumping back into the couch. “You’re unbelievable.”
“Unbelievably right,” Wonwoo said with a laugh. Then his expression softened slightly. “Hey, Soons. I’m not teasing just to tease, you know. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen you like this.”
Soonyoung glanced at him warily. “Like what?”
“Like you’re interested in someone beyond the surface. You date, sure. You’ve had crushes, flings but this? You’re glowing.” Wonwoo’s voice was teasing, but gentle. “The way you said his name… you really like this guy already, don’t you?”
Soonyoung stayed quiet for a long moment, staring at the muted news broadcast still replaying images of raids and crime scenes. His thumb idly rubbed the edge of his chopsticks, a restless habit.
“…I don’t know,” he said finally, almost to himself. “I barely know him. But… yeah. Something about him just… stuck with me.”
Wonwoo leaned back, arms crossed, a satisfied smirk plastered on his face. “Knew it.”
Soonyoung shot him a glare, but there was no real heat in it. “…You’re not going to let this go, are you?”
“Not in a million years,” Wonwoo said cheerfully, raising his glass of water in a mock toast. “To Jihoon Lee—the man who finally made Deputy Chief Kwon Soonyoung flustered.”
Soonyoung let out a laugh despite himself, shaking his head. “I hate you sometimes.”
“You love me,” Wonwoo corrected smoothly, clinking his glass against Soonyoung’s even though he hadn’t raised his own. “But maybe not as much as you’re starting to like Jihoon.”
Soonyoung groaned for the third time that night, burying his face in his hands.
Wonwoo’s chuckle was the last sound before the two of them fell into easier conversation again, but the seed was planted and Soonyoung couldn’t deny, deep down, that Wonwoo was right.
---
It was well past midnight when Soonyoung finally left the precinct, fatigue pulling at his shoulders. Graveyard shifts weren’t his favorite, but tonight he’d insisted on staying, there’d been a lead on an informant tied to a trafficking ring, and he wanted every detail sorted before morning. By the time the paperwork was done, his stomach was growling loud enough to make the rookie officers chuckle.
So, here he was, easing out of a McDonald’s drive-through with a paper bag of food in the passenger seat, the golden arches glowing behind him in the otherwise tranquil night. The streets were nearly empty, save for the occasional late-night cab or delivery truck.
That was when he spotted a figure by a parked car near the corner.
Soonyoung slowed down, his instincts kicking in. The man’s movements were frantic, hands patting his pockets, glancing over his shoulder with wide eyes. It wasn’t until the headlights swept over him that Soonyoung recognized the blonde hair and sharp profile.
“Atty. Lee?” Soonyoung rolled down his window, pulling to the curb.
Jihoon jumped at the sound, body going rigid. His head snapped up and fear still painted on his face until recognition softened it, replaced with relief. He exhaled sharply, his shoulders sagging. “Deputy Chief Kwon… you scared me.”
Soonyoung frowned as he steps out of the police car. “Scared you? What are you doing out here this late? This isn’t exactly prime lawyer hours.”
Jihoon pressed his lips together, trying to collect himself, but his hand still trembled faintly where it clutched his blazer. “I… I dropped my car keys. I can’t find them anywhere.” He gestured helplessly at the ground and at the locked car behind him. “I’ve been looking for ten minutes.”
Soonyoung’s brows furrowed. Something about Jihoon’s rattled expression didn’t sit right with him, but he decided not to push further. Instead, he sighed, running a hand through his hair. “Alright. Forget it for tonight. I’ll call someone to tow your car back to the station garage, make sure it’s safe. You can sort out duplicates tomorrow.”
Jihoon blinked at him, clearly caught off guard by the decisiveness. “You don’t have to—”
“I’m not leaving you stranded here at one in the morning,” Soonyoung cut in firmly, already dialing a number. “So stay right there.”
Minutes later after Soonyoung made the call, the tow truck hadn’t arrived yet, and the two of them were left leaning against Soonyoung’s car under the dim streetlight. The silence stretched, broken only by the occasional sound of passing motorbikes and other vehicles.
Then, a soft rumbling sound from Jihoon’s stomach cut through the silence.
Jihoon stiffened, his face instantly flushing in embarrassment. He placed a hand over his stomach as though he could muffle the sound.
Soonyoung blinked at him before chuckling, reaching into the paper bag on his passenger seat. He pulled out his untouched burger and fries. “Hungry?” he asked casually, holding them out. “Take this.”
Jihoon blinked at the offering, then at him. “No, no. That’s yours. You just came from a drive-thru—”
“I can grab another later. Just eat,” Soonyoung cut him off gently, shoving the bag closer.
Jihoon hesitated, chewing on his lower lip before finally, with a small sigh, taking the food. “...Thanks.”
Watching Jihoon nibble on the fries made Soonyoung smile a little too fondly. But his smile faltered when his eyes caught a faint cut across Jihoon’s knuckles, it looks fresh.
Without thinking, he popped open his trunk and dug around until he found the small first aid kit he always carried.
Jihoon, still chewing, blinked at him in confusion. “What are you—”
“Give me your hand.”
Before Jihoon could protest, Soonyoung had already taken his hand carefully, tilting it under the weak light. His touch was very warm.
Jihoon’s breath caught. His cheeks immediately heated and he quickly looked away. “It’s nothing serious.”
“Still needs cleaning,” Soonyoung muttered, fishing out alcohol wipes and a bandage. He dabbed gently at the wound, ignoring Jihoon’s faint flinch.
For a moment, it was quiet again, only the rustle of wrappers and Jihoon’s quickened breathing filling the air. Then Soonyoung spoke, his voice is now lower and more serious. “You know… it looks to me like you’re running away from someone.”
Jihoon froze.
Soonyoung’s gaze sharpened as he secured the bandage. “Or maybe… you’re investigating something on your own, without telling authorities?”
Jihoon stayed silent. He didn’t confirm, didn’t deny.
And that silence was all Soonyoung needed. His jaw tightened, and he clicked the kit shut.
“You’re a lawyer, not a cop. You should let us handle the dangerous tasks.”
Jihoon’s eyes darkened as he turned to him. “How can I, when half of your officers' reports don’t add up? When I know someone inside is feeding me inconsistencies?”
Soonyoung met his gaze, holding it without flinching. Then, firmly he said, “...Then report it to me. I’ll take care of it.”
Jihoon’s lips parted, surprise flickering in his eyes. Then, almost cautious, he asked, “...Should I trust you?”
Soonyoung let out a small laugh, shaking his head. “Think about it, Attorney Lee. Right now, we’re standing in the middle of a dark street with nothing but a street light that offers little to no light. If you really didn’t trust me…” His smile tugged slightly, softer this time. “…you would’ve made a run for it by now, wouldn’t you?”
Jihoon swallowed hard, that is correct. If his guts told him that the man beside him wasn’t trustworthy; he wouldn't be as complacent as he is right now. Jihoon shifted his weight against the car, the crumpled burger wrapper now resting on his lap. The silence stretched again, heavier this time, and Soonyoung could see the lawyer’s shoulders tense as though he was wrestling with something inside his chest.
“Attorney Lee,” Soonyoung finally broke the silence once more, “why are you so serious about this case? I mean—” he gestured vaguely, “you’re dedicated to all your clients, sure, but this one… You’ve been in the precinct more than usual then now I caught you alone at this ungodly hour … it feels different. You’re running yourself ragged over it.”
Jihoon didn’t answer right away. His fingers tightened slightly on the bandaged hand, his gaze fixed somewhere in the darkness beyond the streetlight. For a moment, Soonyoung thought he wouldn’t reply at all. But then Jihoon exhaled slowly.
“I…” His throat bobbed. “I’m interested because I know who’s behind it. The syndicate handling the omega trafficking cases, it’s the Crimson Flames.”
Soonyoung straightened, his expression hardening at the name. Crimson Flames. The name was very familiar. He’d heard enough about them through back channels and scattered reports to know they weren’t just another big crime group, they were organized, vicious and untouchable. Probably because they also have connections with big shot authorities.
Jihoon continued, his words laced with disgust that seemed to burn from somewhere deep inside him. “And I want them to pay. Badly. For everything they’ve done.”
His hand clenched around the wrapper until it crumpled further, the sound sharp in the still night air. His jaw was tight, his eyes glassy from unshed tears. Whatever the Crimson Flames had taken from him, it wasn’t small.
Soonyoung studied him silently. He didn’t press for details. He could’ve asked—what did they do to you? Who did you lose?—but something in Jihoon’s guarded expression told him now wasn’t the time. Instead, he let the silence hold for a beat longer, letting Jihoon’s words hang in the cool air between them.
Then, slowly, Soonyoung reached out and took Jihoon’s hands. Both of them.
Jihoon startled, his breath hitching as he looked up in shock. “W-what—”
But Soonyoung didn’t waver. His grip was steady, albeit not forceful. It was in fact very soft. He held Jihoon as though he’s someone so precious.
He leaned in slightly, his gaze locking with Jihoon’s. His dark eyes reflected nothing but sincerity, the kind of earnestness that couldn’t be faked.
“You don’t have to tell me the whole story,” Soonyoung said softly. “But I can see it, you’ve probably been through hell.”
Jihoon swallowed hard, but he didn’t pull away. His heart pounded uncomfortably in his chest.
Soonyoung’s voice grew stronger, carrying that familiar look of a man who believed in justice to his core. “Then let me help you, Jihoon. Whatever the Crimson Flames took from you, whatever you’re fighting for, I’ll stand with you.”
The sincerity in his tone cut through Jihoon like a blade. He’d spent years building walls, convincing himself he didn’t need anyone else, couldn’t trust anyone else. But here was this man, this alpha, this police man offering his hand without hesitation. Jihoon’s chest tightened not with pain, but with hope? He is certain himself.
His fingers caught between Soonyoung’s grip. He should’ve pulled back. Every instinct told him to yank his hands away, to keep that wall between them high and impenetrable. Vulnerability had cost him before, cost him everything. Trusting the wrong person had shattered his life in ways he still hadn’t fully recovered from.
But instead of pulling back, his body betrayed him. His pulse pangs right in his ears, his heart skipped unsteady beats, and a faint warmth spread through his chest just like an ember refusing to die. His throat tightened. He bit the inside of his cheek, forcing himself not to speak, not to let slip the storm brewing inside of him.
Don’t be stupid, Jihoon.
He scolded himself silently.
Don’t fall into this again. You can’t afford it. The last time you let yourself believe in someone, especially an Alpha, they tore you apart. Don’t… don’t let him in.
But then Soonyoung gave his hands a gentle squeeze, as if reminding him he was still there, and Jihoon’s chest ached.
Jihoon exhaled shakily, pulling his hands back at last, needing the distance before he betrayed himself even further.
“…We should wait for the tow truck,” he muttered.
Soonyoung only nodded. And as Jihoon turned his face away, hiding the flush that had risen to his cheeks, he told himself the same lie he always did.
You can’t fall in love again.
Even if, for the first time in years, he wasn’t sure he believed it.
Minutes later the tow truck finally arrived, after making arrangements, Soonyoung turned back to him, holding open the passenger side of his police car. “Come on. I’ll drive you home.”
Jihoon hesitated, gaze flickering to the street, then to Soonyoung’s expectant eyes. His heart skipped once, hard again, before he gave in, climbing into the seat with a quiet murmur. “Thank you.”
Soonyoung shut the door gently after him, circling back to the driver’s side. As he started the engine, he cast one more glance at Jihoon, who was staring out the window, still visibly unsettled.
And though Soonyoung didn’t voice it, his mind sharpened with suspicion that although Jihoon already admitted the reason why he’s out late. Something or someone from his past had shaken Jihoon tonight. And until he found out what, he wasn’t about to let his guard down.
TBC…