Betas' place

@β Lee Hoseok "Hoseok, I want you," Seungcheol's words were low and possessive as he pumped himself faster, the want in the other's words of admission almost enough to make him release just like that. But this was Hoseok, the guy he was always fantasizing about...he wanted to make it last. "God, baby, tell me how you want me..." He his lips at the thought, eyes closing as he focused on the other's raspy moans just for him, overwhelmed at the thought that Hoseok could ever even want him like that. As he heard the the other seemingly too far gone to answer his words, he smirked, intent on pushing the other over the edge with his words. "I'd want to have you under me, facing me so I can see the pleasure on your face as my knot fills you up...legs pushed up high so you wan feel every single inch of me..." He didn't know where this silver tongue of his came from, how he could so lewdly speak his desires with his friend, but there was no going back now.

@α Choi Seungcheol Hoseok would never get tired of hearing his name fall from Seungcheol's lips like a plea. No amount of fantasies could ever live up to actually hearing the alpha's voice wracked with desire and knowing that it was all for him. Before, even when he'd shamefully given in and imagined what it might be like, there was always a sense of sadness when he finished because he knew it could never be. But now here he was, hanging on his best friend's every word as he told him that he longed for him to want him back and, Gods, Hoseok was all too willing to give himself to him, body and soul, in that moment. "I want you. , I've wanted you for so long." He confessed without a second thought, desperate and breathy as he squirmed against the sheets. Pale skin glistened with a light sheen of perspiration like after a workout, but Hoseok was shivering, his body temperature fluctuating erratically as his heat set it. All his nerves were alight, hyper aware of everything from the sheets bunching up beneath him to how hot the cellphone felt pressed against his ear. Yet still, he hung on every word that came through the connection, his fingers wandering between the cleft of his backside to press against his leaking entrance as Seungcheol with just what his heat addled brain thought he needed. He couldn't even manage a coherent reply to such a lewd proposition. A broken moan clawed its way out of his throat as he pressed two of his fingertips against the tight ring of muscle, feeling resistance and then the pleasant give that allowed him to dip his fingers teasingly to the first knuckle. It wasn't the same as the jarring press of the tip of someone's finally sinking home, but it had Hoseok arching into it, his twitching in his grasp. What he wouldn't give to be able to hold Seungcheol right now, to let his hands wander over his back as he hovered over him.

@β Lee Hoseok The other's words rushed over him like a wave, face feeling hot from the bold admissions. He wondered if Hoseok had always been so irresistible, knowing just how to use his words to seduce men into a puddle. Part of him felt foolish to even wait so long to flirt with him. "God, Hoseok..." Was all he could muster out, letting his hands roam over his body as he heard the other's soft and flirty tone, closing his eyes as he pumped his own length and let our a few breathy moans. "I just want you when I know you want me...and when I do, Seok, I won't hold back," He purred at the admission hoping the other wouldn't just see him as some innocent guy after this, at least. "I'd be lying if I said today was the first time I thought about you lying under me, my name and taking my knot so well...." Even the thought made his imagination run all the more wild, his eager hips bucking up into his hand.

@α Choi Seungcheol "I called because I wanted to hear you when I make you all over those sheets." Hoseok countered shamelessly, his smirk almost evident in his breathy tone. So Seungcheol wanted to play dirty? Two could play at that game. The beta knew he had more experience under his belt and he wasn't afraid to flex his skills at ing if his friend kept tempting him. Hooking his fingers into the waistband of his boxers that were already slightly damp with his slick, he worked the fabric down past his knees and wrapped his hand around his hard that curved proudly up against his toned abdomen. "You did screw up, but that's just who you are. You're thoughtful like that. Which makes it harder... You're the guy a lot of people would kill to take home, Cheolie. I- ..." A moan left him on a wispy breath as he gave a slow, torturous , his thumb swiping over the weeping crown, and tried to imagine how Seungcheol would feel pressed against him in his tiny bed. his lips, he tilted his head to wedge the phone between his shoulder and his ear so he could use his other hand to cup balls, pinky just subtly brushing the sensitive spot beneath them. "It just makes me want you more."

@β Lee Hoseok Seungcheol smiled a bit as he heard the other's voice on the other side of the phone. It was odd...despite his want, that was his best friend, someone who always just made him genuinely happy to receive a call from. It was odd to hear from him now, with his hand on his hard length, hearing him talk in such a seductive tone he'd never heard from him. It was as if he'd traveled to another dimension, one where he and Hoseok were just kids again, enjoying each other with no repercussions. He wondered for a second if this would be hard on their friendship, where if would leave them after heat, if he really wanted Seungcheol to pursue him romantically...but none of it even mattered when faced with how much pure want he had.

"What, you don't like a little teasing? Isn't that why you called?" Seungcheol grins a bit as he thinks of just how much his pictures had riled the other up in the best possible way, making him feel pretty triumphant. "Well, I missed you. That much I can admit...maybe I screwed up not staying at the beta house longer..." It even surprised himself how y and confident he sounded on the phone with Hoseok, someone who arguably knew every un-y thing he'd ever done in his life. But somehow, it was still okay, he trusted the other enough to be honest with his thoughts even in a way like this.

@α Choi Seungcheol Hoseok rolled onto his back as he listened to the phone ring, his fingers of his free hand restlessly dancing over the lily white skin of his bare thigh that peeked out from beneath his hiked up boxers. Was he seriously about to have phone with his best friend like some desperate teenager? The thought made him laugh, but there was no ignoring the uneasiness he felt over whether or not Seungcheol would even pick up. This was a big step for both of them and there was no denying that the time of the month had certainly addled their minds, but Hoseok knew that his feelings wouldn't change even if he wasn't encumbered by his heat. He'd held Seungcheol in his heart for years, disappointed but content with the fact that he would likely never call him his... Yet now he unexpectedly had a chance and he wasn't going to let it slip through his fingers.

The low gravel of Seungcheol's voice when he finally picked up shot straight to Hoseok's which already strained against the confines of his underwear and he had to bite back a groan, not wanting to embarrass himself with how much he wanted him right from the start. The alpha would never let him live it down. "Damn. When did you become such a tease, Cheolie?" He rasped softly, his heavy breaths washing over the receiver more than he would have liked as his hand inched to squeeze the bulge of his arousal. "Those pictures and talking like that. Is there something I should know?"

@β Lee Hoseok Seungcheol closed his eyes as he slowly pumped his length, that image of Hoseok burned in his memory as he hummed in delight. He thought about letting his fingers wander over every toned muscle, how cute he'd be writhing in pleasure under him...even the thought was too much. He felt almost guilty, thinking of his friend in such a way, his mind wandering with some not so innocent thoughts on what he'd do to him. This was his longest friendship, and some part of him felt so dirty getting off to the thought of how well he could take his knot. He wondered if he and Hoseok would be embarrassed for acting like this once heat season was over, and how odd it would be if they wanted to go back to friends after this...the thoughts were only fleeting, though, as his bodily want for the other was enough to push out any thoughts but those of want. He lets out a soft mewl as he rolls up his hips in desire, only stopping when he suddenly hears his ringtone. Scrambling to silence it, his eyes go wide as he read the name before laughing a bit. Hoseok...the poor beta must be shaking with want right now if he was so eager to call, and the thought sent a shiver down his spine. He only hoped not to fumble with his words too much as he picked up the phone.

"Hey, Seok," He said in a low tone, his voice so clearly dripping with lust from the events before. "Did you miss me so much you had to call already, hm?"

@α Choi Seungcheol It was impossible to not let his hands wander in between typing to Seungcheol. His touches roamed over his defined chest, palming a generous handful of his pec, his breath hitching as he swiped his thumb over the perky bud of his . Somehow, no matter how big he got, he'd always remained sensitive there. Though he was sure it was more mental than anything since he was always more tickling than he ever cared to admit. Burying his face in the fabric of his discarded shirt, he sighed shakily as his fingers trailed along his abdomen to tease the waistband of his boxers. Before he could get too far, though, his phone pinged and he lifted his flushed face up to look at it. There wasn't even any smugness in his win because he was already an utter mess as well. Or so he thought.

If he wasn't too far gone to turn back now already, the lewd picture that took up his screen surely pushed him over the edge. He'd seen Seungcheol in all his glory before, but never like this. So hungry and unbashed in what he wanted, like he had been in the living room when he'd stood up to his father. All for him. A tortured moan caught in Hoseok's throat, his lashes fluttering closed as he imagined the prize that was barely hidden beneath Seungcheol's blanket and how it could give him just what he needed to sate the throb between his legs. , it was too soon for this. Hips rutting against the nest of blankets, Hoseok cursed as he felt just how wet and wanting he already was, his thighs slick with the proof of his arousal. That was it. Fumbling with his phone, the beta found the little icon to call at the top of Seungcheol's text and mashed it, listening to the ringtone with bated breath. Would he even answer? There was a little bit of a grace period with texts because you could have a moment to think of what to say, but Hoseok wasnt a blushing clinging to the safety of hiding behind a screen anymore and right now he just wanted to hear Seungcheol's voice.

@β Lee Hoseok The moments between Hoseok opening his message and responding were some of the most tense of his life so far, wondering if he had pushed some of their boundaries. It was odd, talking to the other like this. Usually, when they were so impacted by each other, they'd just make some thinly veiled passes at each other in the form of joking and teasing. But like this...there was nothing to hide behind. Well at least, he thinks, there's a phone between them, so the first time he so shamelessly flirts with the other his inexperience won't make him fumble with his words. He was by no means a smooth talker, as someone who was a until more recently than he cared to admit. But Hoseok...god, he was so chiseled, handsome, sweet...there's no way he wouldn't have experience. And what all but confirmed that was the picture that he was sent back of his gorgeously toned friend giving him serious me eyes. He could feel the blush creeping up on his cheeks as he got into bed, all but hiding his face in the covers as he tried to calm down. He'd seen Hoseok's body a million times in the locker room or at bath houses, but this was so different. This was a show, specially made for him...he knew Hoseok had wanted him to lose his mind seeing this, and it was working, with his body feeling like it was on fire. He felt embarrassed as his hand traveled south, palming his hard length before sending a text back.

[Seungcheol > Hoseok]
Yeah, you totally win. Holy ...

He contemplated a moment on sending his own before finally deciding to do so, sending a picture of him now sans towel, the hand on his painfully hard only concealed by a tiny strip of his blanket.

[Seungcheol > Hoseok]
You're gonna make me go crazy for you.
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@α Choi Seungcheol Hoseok couldn't resist checking his phone every so often while he somewhat impatiently waited for Seungcheol to return his text, worry beginning to gnaw in the pit of his gut that perhaps he'd gone too far with the flirtations now. Had the alpha had second thoughts now that they weren't affected by each other's presence? He supposed he wouldn't have blamed him if that was the case. They were both running on adrenaline after that encounter with Seungcheol's father and, with the cycle looming, their hormones were off the chain... but that didn't mean it still wouldn't hurt if all this faded away into nothingness. Hiding his face against his bunched up shirt, Hoseok tried to calm himself with the other's scent, but perked up quickly when he heard his phone, scrambling to open the message. Greeted with the image of his friend's toned, dripping form, Hoseok found his throat suddenly unbearably dry and swallowed hard. What he wouldn't give to worship that body and greedily lap up those stray droplets clinging to his skin.

This injustice could not stand. Opening his camera, he quickly snapped a photo, making sure to angle it so the alpha could see the broad expanse of his back which tapered down to his trim waist and the curve of his round backside covered in his blue checkered boxers.

[@Seungcheol] I'm just trying to even the odds. I can't be the only mess here.
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@β Lee Hoseok After a moment, Seungcheol got out of the shower, drying himself off before wrapping a towel around his waist. After getting nice and dry he practically runs back to his phone, perhaps a bit too eager to hear from the other boy. His eyes widened at the messages, surprised that he could be *this* cheeky with him. Okay, two can play at that game, he thinks, snapping a quick mirror photo of himself in this state, half and dripping wet. He hesitates for a moment, wondering if it was too much too fast, but he just couldn't help himself. He knew Hoseok's smell had set off his rutt something fierce, and the thought of the wanton beta getting excited over him in return was an especially rewarding thought.

[Seungcheol > Hoseok]
How cheeky you are,trying to dirty me up after I just cleaned up.
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@α Choi Seungcheol Laying on his side and hugging the bunched up blankets while he waited for his friend to reply, Hoseok hesitated a moment before grabbing his discarded shirt and nuzzling into it. He was used to his own scent so he couldn't really sense it, but Seungcheol's was still faintly lingering on the fabric. It was comforting in a way, but it definitely didn't help the ember of arousal smoldering in his loins. Seeing his screen light up with the new message, he clicked it and immediately felt that desire flare inside him at the images the other's words awoke in his mind. "..." He groaned, his hips involuntarily rolling against the blankets he'd wrapped himself around. That bastard knew exactly what he was doing.

[@Seungcheol] I wouldn't mind you giving me an intimate demonstration about how hard it was right about now.

Chuckling softly, he tapped out another message.

[@Seungcheol] It still feels unreal that I actually said that to you.

@β Lee Hoseok Seungcheol takes the time to slip off his clothes and take a quick shower before coming back to the message. The thought of how wanton the other was for him was enough to drive him crazy, he didn't need his pheromone covered clothing to drive him more mad. He quickly dried himself off before laying back down, face lighting up as he read the text. God, Hoseok was always so cheeky...he figured he'd have to get used to all the teasing if they were going to survive a month of this. The only thing he could do was get even.

[Seungcheol > Hoseok]
Hm, I'm well aware of what I'm missing out on, unfortunately. You have no idea how hard it was to not just pounce on you ;p

@α Choi Seungcheol Hoseok thought there would be some relief when he was no longer overwhelmed by Seungcheol's scent, but it seemed to linger on him even when he ducked away in his apartment. Sagging boneless against the door, his lips parted with a shaky sigh and he closed his eyes to try to get a grip on some shreds of control. Not that he had any reason now that he'd have to settle on for the night and prepare for a couple days of seclusion while he endured the first flares of heat. Already he felt too hot and wanted to strip out of his clothes, but... They carried Seungcheol's scent. He finally convinced himself to move and stripped down to his boxers, holding the clothes in his hand. Instead of throwing them into the basket, he tossed them onto his bed with a small amount of shame before curling up into the unmade, messy nest of blankets he hadn't cared to straighten when his friend had woken him up. He was just getting comfy when his phone chimed and he smiled to himself without even having to see who it was, knowing Seungcheol's promise wouldn't have been hollow.

[@Seungcheol] Glad you made it. Gotta say, though - My bed is pretty comfy and you're missing out =P

@β Lee Hoseok Seungcheol smiled a bit as the other calmed the mood down with him. Perhaps he was a bit bummed that the prospect of spending the night with such a handsome guy was taken off the table, but they both knew it would be better in the long haul. "I promise you, we won't be moving too slow next time I see you," He voice drips with want as he only half teases, giving the other a cheesy wink. "Goodnight, Hoseok. I'll text you when I get home, I promise." Seungcheol walks the other to his door properly this time before taking off towards the alpha house once more, his face still flushed as he thinks about all the affection from the beta. Not to mention that his clothes still lingered with the other's pheromones...God, this was going to be a long and painful month, he thought to himself with a groan as he got home, flinging himself on his bed. He hesitates about what to say before shooting the other a quick text.

[Seungcheol > Hoseok]
Home safe. Rest well, Seok.

@α Choi Seungcheol Hoseok knew they shouldn't, yet his devious mind on the cusp of heat also knew that if he pushed the right buttons that he'd be able to get the alpha right where he wanted him and that nagging whisper urging him to do just that was hard to ignore. A quick tussle in the sheets wasn't what he wanted, though. Seungcheol meant so much more to him than that and he couldn't let his base desires override what was most important. Thankfully, the other swooped in with his playful attitude, falling back on that comfortable crutch of humor, and Hoseok couldn't stop the trill of laughter that escaped him. "Am I moving fast, or have we just been moving way too slow over all these years?" He asked cheekily, his words dying in a soft, dismayed whine when Seungcheol's lips torturously pressed against his once more. Before he could even reach up to tangle his fingers in those soft locks, the kiss was over and Hoseok found himself smiling wistfully. He didn't know what came after this and that scared him... but so long as Seungcheol remained by his side that was all that mattered. The goodbye wasn't so bittersweet this time as he leaned into gently peck his friend's cheek. "Goodnight, Cheolie."

@β Lee Hoseok ((ahh dont worry, I hope youre doing well))

Lust was heavy in the air as Seungcheol rested his forehead against the other's own, eyeing the other with want despite his hesitance. God, if it were any other time, he'd pounce at an opportunity like this, to just throw all inhibitions aside and just go for it. It didn't help that Hoseok was giving him serious me eyes that made him all too eager to oblige. "We can't..." He breathes out against the other's lips to break the tension. He knew he needed to pull away, to not push any further, but Hoseok was really drawing him in like a magnet, every touch sending a shiver down his spine. He felt a familiar, primal feeling of want in the pit of his stomach, the kind that would only be fixed by the beta screaming under him, and it only made it worse to know so clearly how bad the other wanted it too.

"You move fast, Seok. Becoming the 'boyfriend', meeting the parents, and now thinking of things like this during the time of year you can have kids...pretty bold," Seungcheol tries to make a joke, to just clear the air enough that he could think rationally for just a second. This wasn't how things should go. No...Hoseok deserved more than some heat of the moment hookup. He presses another longing kiss to the other's lips, pulling away only when he knew it'd be too hard for him to turn back if he continued. "I'll see you soon, Hoseok."

@α Choi Seungcheol ((blah sorry replies are slow. Had a funeral and then last night work, then work tonight again OTL))

It was reassuring to hear that Seungcheol was willing to wait. Most alphas would have probably pressed him, instinctively trying to see him while he was in heat or simply wanting to sate their curiosity of being with an uncanny beta. Yet primal desire or ual escapade seemed to be the last thing on his friend's mind right now. It was sweet that he intended to pursue him sincerely and not simply because of the affects of the season, but he wouldn't expect anything less from Seungcheol. He was too good for this world. Especially when it came to his father and probably for Hoseok himself. But, Gods, Hoseok still greedily wanted him.

Draping his arm around the alpha's neck, he easily yeilded to the insistent press of his tongue, lips parting to coax him into the heat of his mouth so he could kiss him deeper. If Seungcheol insisted, in that moment he would probably have given him anything. The low, possessive rumble was something he'd never heard from his friend before but it sunk deep into Hoseok's core like a physical thing, settling molten between his legs and awakening an ache within him that had him arching against the smaller alpha in search of some relief. Though, almost as soon as it began, it was over. A soft whine of dismay escaped him as their lips parted and the dazed beta unconsciously chased the feeling of the kiss, leaning forward as his fingers sunk into the soft stands at Seungcheol's nape. He barely got ahold of himself in time, slowly blinking his eyes open which seemed to glow with a honeyed hue for a moment before turning back to the warm brown tone. "It's too bad that all I want right now is to do bad things with you." He murmured thickly, his gaze still captivated by those pretty, delectable lips as his fingers gently traced the curve of Seungcheol's jaw. It wasn't exactly easy to walk away when he'd dreamt of kissing him for years and now it had finally come true. "Gods, you're too much..." It was more affectionate than a complaint. Sighing shakily, he slowly slid his arm from around Seungcheol's neck, hand tracing the curve of his jaw and then down over the other's chest before letting it fall to his side. Subtly, he tried to bury his hand deep into his pocket to try to hide the swell of his arousal.

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@β Lee Hoseok Seungcheol nods a bit at the offer. Of course, life would be a lot easier if they were able to put heat on hold and enjoy each other, but they'd been waiting years, so what was one more? "I'd love to see you more often if it's possible. But even if not, we can do what we've always done." He flashes the other a reaffirming smile. Nothing crazy was to happen within the next few weeks that would drastically change his opinions of the other, so at the end of the day he could hold out if he needed to. Maybe a kiss was a bad idea, though, as the feeling of melting against Hoseok's lips made him oh so eager to do it as much as possible. A sentiment seemingly shared by the other as Hoseok held him impossibly close, their bodies reacting on their own as Seungcheol took the lead and deepened the kiss, nibbling on the other's lower lip before darting his tongue out to explore the other's mouth. The sensation was overwhelming, his mind going hazy with lust as the other's pheromones assaulted his senses in the best way.

He could feel that alpha need in the pit of his stomach like a fiery burn and he emits a low growl against the other's lips, which was the only reason he practically forced himself off the other. He needed to behave himself, things could go quite bad if he wasn't paying attention for even a second in these circumstances. "S-sorry..." He mumbles out shyly, feeling embarrassed for getting so overwhelmed in the presence of the beta. "I should probably let you go, since we won't get anything good done in this state, Hoseok."

@α Choi Seungcheol "It's kinda last minute, but I'll see what I can figure out. It's not like I was planning on having pups this season anyway. Why suffer?" He explained nonchalantly, though it wasn't clear whether he was talking about suffering through his heat or without his best friend. Hoseok couldn't resist leaning against Seungcheol's side when he pulled him close, draping his own arm around his shoulders. If someone had noticed them, they might have easily mistaken them for a couple, so caught up in each other. What the beta wouldn't give to be able to spend the evening cuddled close with Seungcheol, maybe just watching a movie and enjoying each other's company... But there was no way he'd be able to endure that tonight. The other's scent was already so alluring and he knew that he wouldn't be able to keep his hands from wandering or from craving his friend's touch if he invited him inside. Even now, the barest brush of his fingertips left a nagging warmth in their wake that made Hoseok want for more. Gods, why did his heat have to have such terrible timing?

With the beta residence looming ahead, Hoseok knew that they'd have to part ways soon even if he didn't want to. Clearly Seungcheol didn't want to say goodnight either as he slowed to a stop and the blonde gladly followed his lead, his heart fluttering anxiously in his chest as his arms wrapped snugly around his trim waist like they belonged there. A small voice in the back of his mind tried to warn him, to remind him how risky this was, but it was quickly drowned out by the rush of his pulse as his friend's lips claimed his in a heated kiss that had been years overdue. It took a moment for Hoseok's shirt circuiting brain to catch up, but he reached up to lightly curl his fingers in the front of Seungcheol's shirt, a contented little sound catching in his throat as he eagerly returned the lingering kiss. His pheromones flared at the intimate contact and he felt the tell tale flush creeping down his neck, but rather than pull away he only urged Seungcheol closer with desperate, grasping hands. Plush lips parted with a hitched breath as they brushed against the other's before he traced along his lower lip with a kittenish flick of his tongue in silent invitation.

@β Lee Hoseok Seungcheol laughed at the other's comment. Ah, so nothing has changed. But that was for the best, wasn't it? Seungcheol loved the relationship they shared more than anything, it was something so near and dear to his heart that he'd hate himself if he messed it up with his words. He smiled softly as he saw the other so eager for his touch, thinking that he could get used to this. Hoseok was so warm and inviting, in times like this, all he wanted to do was kiss him speechless. But that all would have to wait, at least for a little while. "Right...we've been apart for so many heats, but this feels exceptionally awful," He laughs with just a tinge of sadness, his arm wrapping around the other boy and hugging him tightly as they made the trek back home. Seungcheol looks over to see the boy, gentle and flustered, but the appearance sets him at ease. At least he's not the only one so shy and tongue-tied, he thinks, flashing the other a gentle smile. "I'll support you no matter what, Hoseok. But even with the heat, you know I'll just be blowing up your phone," The notorious triple texter grinned, thinking of just how often he was sure he drove the other crazy with 2am questions and jokes.

He was going to continue to joke with the other before Hoseok's words caught him off guard. Most days, they'd seem pretty typical, but for some reason they made his stomach do somersaults. He sighed softly at the other's sweet touches, the beta house in sight as he suddenly stops to look at the other. "I'm gonna miss you too, Hoseok," He sighed, arms snaking their way around the other's waist to pull him closer. Maybe they were too close to heat for such affections, but honestly, he couldn't care less as he leaned in closer, capturing the other's in a soft yet passionate kiss. After waiting for so many years, he simply couldn't hold himself back any longer, melting into the feeling of Hoseok pressed up against him.

@α Choi Seungcheol "Aw, come on~ you know what I meant. But some people might be into that." Hoseok retorted with a wicked wink and nudged Seungcheol's side, glad to see that nothing had seemingly changed between them. The feelings he'd felt for his best friend had always been there, deep down. An unspoken thing that they both felt in the subtle sparks when they touched or their playful flirtatious which held more truth to them than they could admit. Nothing was different now that they'd come clear, but it was. Before, those affections had been something that Hoseok treasured in his solitude but never gave hope to. Now... They were something he wanted to protect. He didn't want to bury them anymore and pretend to be content with never knowing how they might grow. Even if it was frightening, living with the regret of what might have been and missing out true happiness was even more unbearable.

Hoseok didn't know if it was the approaching heat or simply Seungcheol that had him feeling so weak from the contact, his eyes fluttering closed and a shaky breath passing his lips as he leaned into the sweet touch. He reached up to gently rest his hand over the alpha's, holding his against his cheek as he tilted his head to press a soft kiss to his palm. His heart swelled with warmth hearing Seungcheol's intentions, especially that he was considerate enough to want to wait until after the heat season was over to really pursue anything since neither of them would be in their right state of mind. Most wolves would never do that. It was just a testament to how truly special his friend was. Honestly, sometimes he swore that no one in this world deserved him. Not even himself. "I think... that this is going to be the most miserable month I've ever spent without you." He confessed quietly, nuzzling against Seungcheol's hand before finally opening his eyes to peer fondly at him. "If I can get some suppressants, maybe we don't have to spend all that time apart. I mean, I'm not saying we have to rush or anything. I just-" Catching himself rambling, he sighed and drew his lips along Seungcheol's inner wrist, breathing in his scent which was already getting to him. "I'll miss you."

@β Lee Hoseok "It's hot for me to get knocked down a peg by my family?" He teases with a laugh, feeling good that he could feel a bit more comfortable now that they were out. "I know you're always telling me to stand up for myself, but...to be honest, I never was passionately against anything I was forced into but this. I want a family, a mate...but not like this. I want to figure out for myself who I want." Seungcheol reaches out his hand, stroking the other's cheek as he continues. "That's why I want to pursue you truly, Hoseok. Maybe not yet, but once the month is over and we can spend time together properly."

He rubbed the back of his neck shyly as they walked, not sure what to make of his own feelings, yet alone how to explain them to someone else. Hoseok had always been his rock when times were tough, his helping hand and warm embrace. The first person he called to share good news and the first to comfort him with the bad. But the thought of them being incompatible terrified him, never wanting to ruin the amazing thing they had. Perhaps that's what had stopped both of them periodically from pursuing each other, as well. But if Seungcheol didn't try now, he knew how it would play out, how he would settle down with kids and always wonder 'what if'. And he knew himself well enough to know he couldn't live with a regret like that. "What do you think, Seok?"

@α Choi Seungcheol Stepping out of the Choi household, Hoseok felt a wave of relief now that he could be alone with Seungcheol, away from prying eyes. They had successfully turned his father's world on its head, but now that that was done, he just wanted to enjoy his friend's company for whatever time they had left. Though he still had so many questions on the tip of his tongue, some regarding the lingering feeling of the alpha's lips against his own, he held them back for fear of shattering whatever fragile ground they tread on. "You don't have to thank me, Cheolie. I hardly did anything back there. That was all you. The way you stood up to your old man- Gods..." He trailed off in his admiration, shaking his head at the thought that crossed his mind and that he was actually about to admit it. "It was actually kinda hot. I can't really explain it."

Chuckling softly, he glanced down at his feet as he tried to figure out how to convey how it had made him feel when Seungcheol had so boldly declared he still intended to pursue him. Because he was a bigger guy, most people assumed that he could handle himself and didn't jump to defend him. When his friend had chosen to stick by their relationship – albeit /fake/ relationship, he had to remind himself – over being forced to cater to his father's lofty standards, it touched him more than he ever should have let it. How was it that the world was so cruel to present such a perfect mate to him, but then deny him the chance to have him? At least that's what he thought, until Seungcheol's words truly sunk in. Hoseok slowed to a stop, fingers still so nicely intertwined with the alphas, and stared dumbfounded at him. "You- ... So all that- ... You weren't just saying it?" The rarely speechless man stammered hesitantly, feeling like his heart was teetering on a precipice. One word could cast it down and he didn't know if he'd ever find all the pieces of it again...

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@β Lee Hoseok The other's blush gave a bit of an implication to what he was thinking, and he'd take it for now. Especially with his older brother there, eyeing them with a cheeky grin on his face. He just knew he'd hear about this nonstop later, when Seungwon was stuck at home from the heat and so painfully bored that he would do nothing but pester the alpha about his social life. But what would he even say to him? That Hoseok is his fake boyfriend that he was enjoying all too much? Perhaps he'd let things get too complicated to explain well at this point, but he could worry about that later. For now, he just wanted to spend time with Hoseok until they couldn't any longer.

Now that he thinks about it, Seungcheol isn't so sure he'd ever been around the beta during heat before. Sure, they were always joined at the hip, but he remembered Hoseok fading their communications out right before the usual time of heat, perhaps to save them both from doing anything too regrettable. He was thankful for it, though, because even smelling Hoseok's pheromones now were enough to drive him completely wild, only wanting to pick him up and kiss each other senseless. He couldn't even fathom how alluring the other would seem during heat, not that he should be imagining such things anyway.

He waves a quick goodbye to Seungwon as he gets up, his brother simply giving him a knowing glance that made him feel see through. Seungcheol shyly diverts his eyes, taking the other's hand as they talk off back to the beta house, his cheeks completely flushed from all of the excitement from today, and the painfully adorable pet names weren't making anything easier. "Hey, um...thanks. For all of that." He didn't even know what to say about the events that transpired except for thank you. Hoseok's strength was always something Seungcheol had admired, both physically and mentally, and he knew if he had gone by himself, he would have quietly listened to the same argument about family and pack values. Still, though, he knew this was far from over. Maybe he bought them another month or two, but he couldn't imagine this was the last of his arrangements. Regardless, Hoseok just calmed him in a way nobody else did. "You know, I meant what I said back there. You don't have to accept me, especially this time of year with heat coming up, but...I'm going to pursue you seriously, Hoseok."

@Choi Seungcheol The question tinted Hoseok's cheeks pink as well and he gave a subtle nod. Of course it was okay. He'd been waiting years to feel Seungcheol's lips against his own, but he was too embarrassed to lay countless fantasies – Oh, and kisses were only half of what he'd imagined – that spanned the length of their friendship bare with the alpha's brother standing right there. What did he possibly think? Shifting nervously in his seat, he drew his lower lip between his teeth as Seungwon lectured them like a proper hyung. He hadn't even considered his heat when he'd agreed to this endeavor.

Pheromones usually started going haywire the evening before the cycle began and Hoseok tried his best to get everything he might need in order before the full brunt of his instincts kicked in. As much as he loved being with Seungcheol, his company was near to impossible to keep unless he was dampened with suppressants. Before, he'd have to settle with long talks on the phone or video calling over the course of the month and the thought of having to do that now felt like torture. How could he stay away when they'd finally been honest about how they felt? What if the time apart undid it all?

Though he hardly needed anyone to walk him back since he doubted anyone would start trouble with him, he'd take any moment he could steal with Seungcheol before sequestering himself away for the next month. "I'd like that. Come on, yeobo." He agreed fondly and reached down to take Seungcheol's hand in his before rising up from the couch. "Thanks, Wonie. Seriously... I guess I'll see you around."

@β Lee Hoseok Seungcheol nods at the question. "It felt good. Like..I could do anything." Anything with you by my side, he adds in his mind, settling instead on pulling the other closer in complete relief. He was sure to get an angry phone call tonight, or maybe 3, but it was all okay. Love was the only thing he knew he could never let his family decide on with him. Perhaps that's why he was so boldly able to pull the other into a kiss, despite how embarrassing the aftermath was.

"O-oh...it was okay?" He asked shyly, feeling his cheeks heating up. Despite how much of a romantic he was at heart, he never truly had any opportunities to show it, never having anything close to a mate unless you counted seeing his crush changing in front of him. How could Hoseok even deal with him and all of his inexperience, when he was supposed to be confident for him? He's pulled out of his head from the other's sweet kiss, looking at Hoseok to give him a gentle smile. God, he wished he could stay in this moment forever; but unfortunately for him, his older brother had to startle them away from each other with some sense. "Shouldn't you guys be getting home? Heat's starting soon, you don't want to be out wandering in all that nonsense." Damn, he'd pretty much blocked the thought from his mind, it seemed, but his brother was right. With so many predatory alphas roaming around at the beginning of heat, it really wasn't the most comfortable time to be out. "Yeah...can I walk you home, /jagiya/?" He offered with a gentle smile.

@Choi Seungcheol Relief washed over Hoseok's features when Seungcheol insisted he was okay, but he couldn't help searching his eyes to make sure he wasn't just saying it on his behalf so he didn't worry. "Weird? No. It felt good?" He inquired softly, forgetting that the other's sibling was even here at all. The alpha seemed so radiant right now as he smiled, more comfortable in his own skin than Hoseok had ever seen him. All these years he'd feared his father, but now knowing that he could stand up to him and take his life into his own hands seemed to imbue him with confidence. Perhaps all he'd needed was a little push and someone at his side this entire time.

Rubbing a gently circle with his thumb on Seungcheol's knee, Hoseok shook his head when his friend thanked him. "Idiot. You don't need to repay me." He began softly, though he honestly didn't know if he could find the words to describe the feelings surging within him at that moment. Thankfully, he didn't have to. Hoseok found himself stunned into silence as Seungcheol cupped his cheeks and plush lips captured his own in a chaste kiss. Heart stalling, the beta forgot how to breathe as his mind struggled to process what was happening, that he wasn't imagining this. His best friend and the man who he'd held dear for so many years was actually kissing him. In his living room no less!

It was over much too quickly, but Hoseok's giddy smile was far from apologetic as he reached up to hook a hand behind Seungcheol's nape to pull him closer again. "Don't be. I'm not sorry." He reassured him, though it extended to far more than just the stolen kiss. Going through this with Seungcheol was never something he could regret. Even if he could never call him his, helping him find his voice and realize be could stand tall before his father was all he hoped for. Leaning in to press his forehead against the alpha's, he nuzzled his nose sweetly against his in a ghost of a kiss. Gods, he wanted to kiss him again. But then he heard the sound of Seungwon clearing his throat broke him out of his trance. After witnessing all of this, of course the other would have questions. Regretfully easing back, Hoseok smiled bashfully at him.