Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Getting around the hospital was more enjoyable than Wenlang expected it to be. Even though the beginning of their journey had been rocky and strenuous, much more than he anticipated.

It started with a tiny argument before they’d even left the room. The nurse had recommended Gao Tu use a wheelchair, which he had turned down immediately, claiming he was just fine. The ridiculous statement left Shen Wenlang confused, trying to figure out why he would decline aid after being hospitalized. As gently as he could, Wenlang demanded Gao Tu explain himself, but he didn’t expect the little voice the man had when he responded. Nor did he prepare himself for the shameful tone the omega used to express how embarrassed he’d be if he was seen by anyone they knew. It left Shen Wenlang wanting to pick him up, hold him close, and tell him how he should never feel shame or embarrassment. Shame and embarrassment did not belong in any sentence that spoke of Gao Tu. He was perfect.
The alpha didn’t do that to him. In fact, a small part of him could understand Gao Tu’s hesitation, though overall he didn’t like it. However, Wenlang was willing to let Gao Tu have his way. Truth be told, there was a chance the alpha would give him anything he asked for if he used that voice again. But, for now, he’d just let him say no to the wheelchair.
When he flat out refused Wenlang’s offer to carry him around everywhere, the alpha tried not to let it hurt his feelings. Instead, Wenlang brought up how light Gao Tu was, knowing first hand just how easy it had been to carry him around the hospital after he fainted. Gao Tu’s ears had turned an adorable shade of red, filling Wenlang with an odd sense of enjoyment from the sight. He wanted to do it again. More importantly, he was going to figure out exactly what set him off like that. Stuttering and stumbling, Gao Tu still told him no.
So, that left them walking. Which meant Wenlang was glued to Gao Tu’s side.

He knew he had looked ridiculous, trying to carry the three baskets in one hand while his other was constantly reaching for Gao Tu, but he didn’t care. His eyes never strayed too far from his the omega. After every few steps he made the stubborn man take a break, worried about pushing him too far and too fast. They had been trying to get to Gao Qing’s room for some time when Gao Tu officially had enough of Shen Wenlang’s overly attentive behavior.

~O~

“Shen Wenlang,” he snapped at the alpha when he hovered too close. Again. The omega let out a soft sigh, his eyes shut in silent frustration as he helplessly held his hands out like he was trying very hard not to strangle him. It was a rather adorable look. “I am just fine.”

“No, you’re not,” he argued, flashbacks of yesterday flying through his troubled mind. “You’re rushing like there’s a fire. Will you slow down and walk?” Wide disbelieving eyes met Shen Wenlang’s gaze.

“We’ve been ‘walking’ for 15 minutes.”

“Exactly!” he worried, hurriedly ushering him to the side again. “Why not rest for a second? You must be tired -”

“How could I be tired?” Gao Tu demanded, jabbing a hand down the hallway. “We haven’t even made it to the elevator!” The two stood in a mild standoff, one looking far too irritated while the other was far too fearful. Gao Tu’s eyes were roaming over him, taking him in and coming to the realization of what was causing Wenlang to act this way. Only Gao Tu was able to do that - know him so intimately just from a look. Gao Tu let out another sigh, turning to fully face him as he gave Wenlang a stern look. “Yesterday, before I fainted, I didn’t feel well.”

“Do you not feel well now?” At Wenlang's horrified look, Gao Tu shook his head.

“I feel much better today,” he reassured, a gentleness taking over him that somehow eased Wenlang’s frantic heart. “I’m trying to say that when I didn’t feel well yesterday, I ignored it. I kept thinking I could push through, but then I passed out. I’m sorry I did that, especially with you.” Wenlang shook his head, blinking his eyes of those horrible memories.

“Never apologize to me,” he muttered. “I’m sorry for pushing you too much yesterday.” Gao Tu let out a breath, staring up at him with appreciation shining in his eyes.

“You didn’t do that. And I am sorry, because I never wanted to worry you.” Something about that statement didn’t sit right with Wenlang, but he remained silent, choosing to listen instead. “I promise you that if I don’t feel well at any point, I will tell you immediately. And, I will take a break.” Shen Wenlang watched him closely, his eyes narrowing as he studied him. Gao Tu remained steadfast, staring right back and showing no signs of deception.

“You promise?” Gao Tu nodded once more.

“Mm.” Shen Wenlang took a deep breath, holding up his pinky in a rather demanding way. Gao Tu stared at it, a tiny smirk on his lips as he reached up to wrap his own pinky around his, the two of them lifting their thumbs to meet, sealing their promise. They hadn’t done anything this juvenile since their school days; forging pinky promises like they were actual bonds. But something felt so right about it. At their shared smiles, Wenlang gave a little nod.

“Alright,” he called, shifting and holding out his arm to the man. Gao Tu stared at the offer, turning back up to Wenlang with wide eyes. He pushed his arm out a little more, only slightly embarrassed that he was having to ask again. “If you’re not going to use a wheelchair, then you will hold onto me instead.” Gao Tu opened his mouth, a small protest already forming, but Wenlang cut him off. “Please. It will make me feel better.” Gao Tu's look of uncertainty smoothed out at that, staring down at the arm with less hesitation, though it was still there. “Of course, I could always carry you,” he teased, glancing away with a pleased and thoughtful look. “It would be easier.” The lighthearted glare he received was expected. Gao Tu reached up, wrapping his hand around Wenlang’s arm, causing the alpha’s smirk to blossom into a full on smile. But as quickly as the happiness presented itself, the fear and hesitation came back in full swing, his brilliant brain worrying over whatever wrong thoughts he was having.

“You’re not worried about us being seen-”

“My only concern is for you,” he interrupted, gazing down at him and trying his best to show how sincere he felt. “I promise you that.” Gao Tu swallowed, his ears that beautiful shade of scarlet once again as he looked down. Before Wenlang could say anything, Gao Tu held up his free hand, his own pinky out this time. As quickly as the gesture had been offered, Wenlang accepted, wrapping his pinky around Gao Tu’s before pressing their thumbs together. With a quick smile sent his way, Gao Tu cleared his throat, nodding forward expectantly.

“Let’s go.” Wenlang happily obeyed.

~O~

And that’s how they were now, with Gao Tu’s hand resting on his arm as Shen Wenlang patiently guided them through the halls, constantly mindful of how fast he was going and trying to adjust his own gate. They had pleasant conversations here and there when they could think of things to say. Otherwise, the silence was peaceful, a pleasant change to how stifling it was earlier that morning.
As they walked down the fifth floor, Wenlang spotted a familiar head of brown hair standing next to another secretary that was becoming a regular at his side.

“Secretary Chang,” Wenlang called out. Before the two men turned around, he felt the hand on his arm quickly slip out and away. Gao Tu stood tall beside him, putting more space between them as he stepped aside. He avoided Wenlang’s gaze, the alpha staring at him as if he’d just slapped him in the face, and Shen Wenlang would have preferred it to the distance they now had. But he should have expected this. Gao Tu was painfully private. Him not wanting to give others any ideas about them or his health was something Shen Wenlang was already aware of, and should not have hurt his feelings as much as they did. So, brushing off the pain in his hurt, Wenlang focused on squaring his shoulders back, glancing back at the two men who were now walking up to them.

“President Shen,” Chang Yu called when they met in the middle, he and Chen PinMing bowing politely at them. His eyes took on a mischievous glint when he turned to Wenlang’s right, smiling politely to Gao Tu. “Secretary Gao.” His overly delighted tone did nothing but piss Shen Wenlang off for reasons he couldn’t quite explain, his mood only souring when Gao Tu smiled back at them.

“Secretary Chang. Secretary Chen,” Gao Tu greeted. “What brings you both here?”

“Unfortunately, our bosses were in an accident yesterday, caused by the earthquake,” Chang Yu explained, Secretary Chen nodding in agreement.

“We’ve come to check on them.”

“I’m sorry to hear that,” Gao Tu said, missing Wenlang’s fond expression aimed his way. “Are they okay?” The two men nodded under Gao Tu’s concerned stare. “Are you both okay?” The consideration he had warmed Shen Wenlang’s heart. The secretaries both nodded again, Shen Wenlang noticing the too big smile on Chen Pinming’s face aimed at his Gao Tu.

“We’re fine, Gao Tu,” Secretary Chen reassured, earning a smile from Gao Tu that had Shen Wenlang scowling once again. “What brings you both here?”

“That’s none of your business.” The snappish remark from Wenlang left the entire group silent, the three men immediately staring up at the CEO, looking at him crazy as if he was the one who was smiling at people he shouldn’t be smiling at. Gao Tu’s confused look caught his eye though, and Wenlang could see it then; the small calculating gaze as his eyes moved about him, taking in his expressions. It frightened and thrilled Shen Wenlang when he did that.
Gao Tu kept his eye on him, even scaring Wenlang’s glare away, the alpha’s eyes falling back to the other two secretaries. He raised a brow at the startled look on Secretary Chen’s face, silently pleased that he lowered his gaze in fright. But the pleasure was instantly gone when he turned and saw the smug look Chang Yu wore, the irritating man’s gaze drifting between him and Gao Tu. Whenever he got that look it was because he was forming a conclusion, and as much as it pained Wenlang to admit this, the man was never wrong.

“One of our HS employees was injured yesterday in the earthquake," Gao Tu politely cut into the silence, everyone calmly going back to a bit of normality after that. “We’re here to visit them. And my sister, who just had surgery.” Chang Yu made a small noise, knowing who he meant right away.

“Ah, of course. How is Gao Qing?” Gao Tu opened his mouth, ready to answer when the damning realization that he had never told Chang Yu his sister’s name crossed his mind, the same time it crossed Shen Wenlang’s and, judging by his face, Chang Yu’s. The three men stared, wide eyed.

“How,” he started, his confusion evident, “do you know my sister’s name?” Chang Yu blinked, staring at Gao Tu like he’d just woken from a coma and didn’t know where or who he was. It was hilarious. At least for Shen Wenlang.

“What?”

“How do you know my sister’s name?” Gao Tu asked again, his voice becoming low and distrusting. Shen Wenlang had to give it to Chang Yu; he wasn’t looking at Wenlang, nor was he about to give away how he knew her. It made Wenlang want to laugh, seeing the usually calm and collected Chang Yu flounder. And the cause was his wonderful Gao Tu.
Chang Yu blinked again, turning to Chen Pinming with a winning smile.

“I believe Secretary Chen told me about your sister.”

“That would be pretty impressive of me,” Chen Pinming muttered with a shake of his head, “given that I just found out he has a sister right now due to this awkward conversation.”

“Really?” Chang Yu confirmed, looking more and more like a thief caught red handed. Chen Pinming gazed at him with pity, but, much like Shen Wenlang, he too was going to be of no help to the alpha. “Oh, would you look at that?” Chang Yu called out, glancing down at his watch in surprise. “I have to be somewhere.”

“Where?” Wenlang asked, a rather childish glee shining in his eyes that would have gotten him a well deserved middle finger if Chen Pinming wasn’t there. The man was well and truly whipped for the beta.

“Literally anywhere but here,” he stated, ignoring Wenlang as much as he could before giving them all a little bow. “Good day.” And with that, he turned and walked right back down the hall he’d just come from. Chen Pinming watched him leave for a few seconds, turning to the startled Gao Tu and very amused Wenlang. He nodded politely at them before he too quickly turned and walked away, catching up to Chang Yu easily. By the looks of it, he was scolding him as they continued down the corridor, the two exchanging remarks with one another.

“That was weird,” Gao Tu muttered, still unsatisfied.

“Not as weird as this,” Wenlang whispered. At Gao Tu’s curious look, he pointed after the men. Gao Tu followed his hand, the two of them watching the men turn down a hall together, finally out of their sights. “For two people whose bosses are on different floors, any ideas as to why they’re going off together?” Gao Tu’s eyes were wide in wonder, turning back to Wenlang.

“What are you trying to say?” Wenlang smirked, holding out his arm again, biting back how pleased he was when Gao Tu took it without hesitation. Not just that, but Wenlang had to try his best to ignore the reddening ears of the omega at his side and the heat he felt creeping up his own neck.

“I think two little secretaries are sneaking around supplies closets.” Gao Tu’s mouth fell open, the man looking back over their shoulders where the other two had run off.

“Wha?” he breathed, turning back with an adorably shocked look on his face. “That’s… surprising,” he said, though his amusement shone through, a small smile on his face. Wenlang only nodded, agreeing whole heartidly as he thought of the many times he’d caught Chang Yu texting someone. There was never a name, just a heart emoji. He had tried to ask Hua Yong about it, but Hua Yong had been his usual charming self and told him that he didn’t care who Chang Yu was texting. So, Wenlang was left to figure it out on his own, which turned out not to be as hard as he expected, given how smitten Chang Yu had looked when Chen Pinming had stepped into the room one day. It had almost made Wenlang burst out laughing.
“Do you have a problem with them being together?” Wenlang blinked, turning down to Gao Tu, noticing how tense he was as he waited for his response.

“A problem?” When Gao Tu nodded, Wenlang shook his head, still confused by the question. “Not at all. They’re not my employees, so I don’t care what they do.” It didn’t seem like enough for Gao Tu but Wenlang wasn’t finished, gently turning them down the hall. “If they were my employees, I would only care about their performances in the workplace. You know the policy for office relationships,” he reminded Gao Tu, feeling an odd jolt in his stomach talking about office romance with his office “crush”. “Love of his life” had a better ring to it, but in order to keep his heart from exploding, he'd stick with crush for now.
“Chang Yu is an admirable worker - especially given who his employer is,” he grumbled, nodding his head at nothing in particular, “Chen Pinming’s boss also sucks!” He could see the amused smile on Gao Tu’s face out of the corner of his eye, knowing just how much he hated Sheng Shaoyou. “But, from what you’ve told me, you say he’s nice. You say that about everyone though so I’m not sure what to think.”

“Secretary Chen is nice,” Gao Tu defended, a slightly put out look gracing his face that had Shen Wenlang smirking.

“Really?” Gao Tu nodded emphatically, but Wenlang knew him better than that. “Gao Tu, what do you think of President Chaoxing?”

“Of Xīn Co?” he clarified. Wenlang nodded, a small part of him thrilled that he knew exactly who he was talking about. “I think he’s nice too.”

“See?” Wenlang contradicted him, taking in the slightly bemused look on his the omega’s face as Gao Tu shook his head. “Chaoxing is an ass and everyone in the industry knows it.” Gao Tu was thinking, a gentle and thoughtful look gracing his features.

“He’s just misunderstood.”

“Hard to misunderstand what an ass he is,” he muttered, catching Gao Tu’s gaze as he scowled further. “Remember when we first met? He was incredibly unpleasant, demanding, belittling, and then had the nerve to call me an insensitive prick!” Gao Tu’s eyes slowly fell away at the memory, an aura of heartbreak exuding from him that had Wenlang intently waiting. There was something the man knew that Wenlang hadn’t been privy to. Gao Tu tilted his head, lost in the past.

“He was perhaps harsh, but it was understandable.” Wenlang, confused by his reasoning, tried his best to soften his tone.

“What do you mean?”

“He’d just lost his wife back then.” Shen Wenlang startled, staring at Gao Tu. For a few moments, the omega took a turn leading them, gently pulling Wenlang down the hall, his eyes intently on his shoes. Of all the things he could have said, that wasn’t what he expected. The alpha slowly blinked back to reality, hoping he had misheard him.

“What?”

“Xīn, his omega wife,” he explained, his tone colored with sadness. “She had a rare form of cancer her entire life. It’s why President Chaoxing started Xīn Co when he was younger. He wanted to try and find a cure. Unfortunately, he was unsuccessful, and she passed away… I think a month before you met.” Wenlang’s mouth hung open, shocked by the information he’d never known - never bothered to know.

“Jeez,” he mumbled. Thinking back to some of his comments he’d made in their meeting, the careless things he had said about omega’s, he let out a pained sigh. “Wow, I really was a prick. I’m surprised he did business with me at all. And I didn’t even send condolences.”

“You sent them.” Wenlang turned to him with a firm shake of his head.

“No, I didn’t.”

“Well,” he uttered, a sheepish expression on his face as he shrugged. “I sent them for you.”

“You did?”

“Mm. According to his secretary at the time, it was the reason President Chaoxing met with you. No other company had sent them. They feel the same way you do about him.” Wenlang let out a breath, a pain in his heart making him want to reach for his chest.

“I…I had no idea.”

“You had a lot on your plate back then,” he explained, shrugging his shoulders as if it all made sense. “HS was just getting started and you were busy securing new investors. We needed one with Xīn Co. So, I just tried to help, as much as I could.” He couldn’t help but marvel at Gao Tu, his heart thrumming with adoration for the great care and attention he displayed not only for his company but for him as well. It made him want to reach out and hold him till the end of time. To scream for medical assistance as his heart was clearly giving out with how badly it hurt.

“I can’t believe you did that for me,” he said instead, clenching his fingers distractedly so they didn’t snatch him up. Gao Tu gave a little shrug.

“I mean, it’s kind of my job.” There he was again, being so humble.

“When we get back to the office,” he called, holding his head up higher as he took charge in leading them through the hospital once more, “we’re discussing a raise.”

“Okay,” he agreed, falling into step easily beside him. He glanced up, his eyebrows pinching together in the middle in that adorably confused way that he did. “A raise for who?”

“Gao Tu, please,” Wenlang damn near begged, shaking his head. “We already talked about being cute during serious situations. It’s not very becoming of you.”

“I wasn’t-” he cut himself off, eyes growing wide as it finally clicked who the raise was for. “I don’t need a raise.”

“No arguing. Now, come along,” he called, gently coaxing him down the hall while ignoring his adorable spluttering. He was never too pushy, never too quick, painfully aware of his the omega on his arm. 

Once they’d gotten close to Gao Qing’s room, Gao Tu stopped them a few doors away. He had turned to Wenlang and, in that same little voice, asked him to go over what he’d told Gao Qing the night before. Wenlang had quickly explained, Gao Tu giving him a shy ‘thank you’, before he took a deep breath, mustering up some courage and taking one of the baskets meant for his sister.

“Wait,” Wenlang called, reaching out to the man. His own steadying hand wrapped around Gao Tu’s elbow as he curiously looked at Gao Tu. “What do you want to say about… us?” Gao Tu’s eyes widened a moment, flying around the hallway as if in search of what Wenlang could have possibly meant by that. His ears went that beautiful shade of red again.

“What about us?” he stuttered. Wenlang caught on a little too late, mentally cursing himself for such careless words. The last thing he wanted was to scare Gao Tu off with the idea of them together (even if that was the only thing he wanted).

“Not us us,” he redacted, blinking back the thoughts, the hopes, the wishes of them being something more. “I meant, what should we say when she figures out that I know?” Gao Tu slowly understood what he meant then. What were they going to do about Gao Qing finding out that Wenlang knows something so sacred about Gao Tu?

“I - I hadn’t thought about that,” Gao Tu spoke honestly. “She’s been so sick with her pheromone disorder, the thought of her actually being able to…” he released a heavy breath, staring up at him with a look in his eyes that screamed of his sadness. “You know, she’s never been able to smell anything other than fellow alpha’s?” Shen Wenlang ached at that, thinking of the pain that the Gao’s had gone through; Gao Qing’s medical issues, Gao Tu’s health and well being, so many things must have been hard. Wenlang let out a soft sigh, glancing down the hall worriedly.

“I don’t want to upset her while she’s supposed to be resting,” Wenlang expressed, turning down to the basket he was meant to give her. “My knowledge of this might do that.” With a firm nod he turned up to Gao Tu with a determined look, planning to go back down the hall and sit on the bench he had seen. “I should just let you visit with her alone. I’ll go-”

“No,” Gao Tu called with a start, grabbing onto Wenlang tightly. The two looked at one another, stunned by Gao Tu’s outburst. The omega’s gaze slowly moved to his hand that was wrapped around Wenlang’s arm, a hint of shame coming through in his eyes that made Wenlang’s stomach curl at the sight.
“If… if you don’t want to come in, that’s fine. But, you’re more than welcome to. And... I might feel better if you did,” he admitted. The hope that blossomed in Wenlang’s chest could barely be contained, but it was short lived as he closely watched the man in front of him. Gao Tu glanced down at the floor with such sorrow and regret, his expression painfully raw, that Wenlang had to fight back the urge to hold him tightly against his chest till whatever foul thoughts and feelings left him. Instead, Wenlang gave his elbow a little squeeze. He waited, giving him space to process even though every second was torturous. With a shaky breath, he glanced up at Wenlang.
“Gao Qing doesn’t know.” Wenlang blinked, staring down at Gao Tu like he had just spoken an entirely new language.

“What?” Gao Tu sighed, his hand holding on to Wenlang as if seeking strength from him. Shen Wenlang gave it willingly, releasing a small amount of soothing pheromones and searching for any sign of discomfort he could try and fix. Gao Tu’s tense shoulders slowly relaxed, taking a steadying breath.

“Gao Qing presented later than most,” he started softly, “and when she did, her pheromone disorder came quickly after. By then, I was already identifying as a beta.” The gentle explanation had Wenlang’s heart plummeting into the pit of his stomach. He knew the start of using suppressants had to be young, but Gao Tu had been a child. A child. Forced to use something so dangerous most likely under the guise of safety. Wenlang was going to be sick.
…Later.
Right now, he would listen.
“Things were already hard, especially for her. I wasn’t going to be another thing she needed to worry about.” If Wenlang had felt like a bastard before, it didn’t compare to his feelings of self-loathing now. He had imagined his family had at least known and that he had had somewhere he could go that was safe. But he should have known better. Gao Tu had struggled for years. Silently. Alone. Scared. While others went around freely, Gao Tu had to fight every day. Fight for his survival. Fight for his sister. It wasn’t right.
As much as it made Wenlang feel rotten with guilt, he experienced an overwhelming sense of pride and admiration for the man in front of him. To have struggled and go through life the way he had and yet remain heartwrenchingly kind, painfully gentle, and unbelievably understanding of others. Though he lived and fought a Hell that Wenlang was certain he didn’t know the full extent of, he was an angel from Heaven.

“Gao Tu,” he whispered, his eyes blinking back the sting it felt. “I’m so sorry you’ve gone through all of this alone,” Wenlang said sincerely, his heartache blistering through his tone, “and for so long.” Gazing down at him, not even his adorably wide-eyed confused look could lift his spirits. “I want to come back to it, and we will,” he vowed, filing it away even when Gao Tu looked like he’d prefer to ignore that topic of conversation. “But, if your sister doesn’t know yet, then you have to make a decision. Do you want to tell her?” Gao Tu looked torn, his eyes fluttering down the hall to where his sister was.

“I do,” he said, shifting slightly. “I just… I don’t think I want to tell her now.”

“That’s okay,” Wenlang supported, standing taller. “I have a plan, but it involves scenting you. Are you okay with that?”

“Wh-” he stumbled, going silent as some nurses passed them by. Wenlang saw it then. Those red ears. The bit of pink crawling up his neck. Gao Tu really was stunning. “What would that do?”

“Your scent right now is still pretty mild,” he explained slowly. “I will be able to overpower it. Your sister will focus more on my scent and not pick up on yours. She might think I'm an asshole, smelling so much, but that’s okay.” Gao Tu didn’t move as Wenlang studied him, taking in the contemplative look he wore. The smallest glint of hesitation.

“I don’t want to make you-”

“Stop,” Wenlang cut him off, his voice firm. “Anything I offer to you, it's because I want to give it to you. You are not making me do anything.” But, if Wenlang was honest, Gao Tu could. He could make him do anything. If it meant his comfort, his peace, or his happiness, no matter what it was, Shen Wenlang would do it without hesitation.
Thankfully, his statement seemed to be enough for Gao Tu, who gave a little nod in the end.

“Okay.” Wenlang nodded in return, glancing around till he saw a room not that far away with its lights off.

“Come,” he called, guiding Gao Tu slowly across the hall. He pulled the omega in behind him, shutting the door. It was a standard hospital room, much like the one Hua Yong was holed up in a few floors away. He took the basket back from Gao Tu, gently placing them on a little table as he spoke.
“We will have to be close,” he explained, trying to keep the heat he felt spreading throughout his face at bay. “Would you like to be on the bed or in the chair?” Gao Tu made a slightly horrified sound, looking much as he sounded when Wenlang turned to face him.

“I don’t know,” he struggled, looking between Wenlang, the bed, and the chair several times. “What would be easiest for you?” he bit out, carefully picking his words. This wasn’t what Wenlang wanted. He wanted Gao Tu to be at ease in his presence, not panicking or shivering with fear like he looked on the verge of doing. He had to fix this. Wenlang took his time approaching him, waiting patiently till wide unsure eyes turned up to him. Softening his tone was something he wasn’t used to doing, but he’d be damned if he didn’t try for Gao Tu’s sake.

“What is easiest for me is knowing you are comfortable.” It seemed to do the trick, the panic subsiding, the surprise turning soft and looking more like appreciation, as he glanced down.

“Well,” he cleared his throat, running a hand along the back of his neck. “I don’t know how comfortable I’m going to be either way.”

“We don’t have to do this,” Wenlang reminded, trying to give a reassuring look. “We can come up with another plan-“

“No,” Gao Tu cut him off, a slow determined breath escaping him as he looked up at Wenlang. “I want to, I just… I don’t know what to do. Can you tell me? Please.” Wenlang nodded, trying to remain calm at that slightly pleading tone, but how could he? This was also Gao Tu displaying trust. In him.
He thought of how they needed to be for this to work. He was relying on what little knowledge he had of this, since he too didn’t know what he was doing. He had never done this to anyone, and when he had learned Gao Tu was a beta, he truly didn’t bother learning many things that involved omega’s. He knew the basics, of course, and some extra things thanks to his work and having to help Hua Yong with his deranged schemes for Sheng Shaoyou, but it wasn’t enough. He’d need to remedy that immediately.

“The strongest places to scent someone is their neck and their wrists, where their glands are,” Wenlang explained, removing his jacket and tossing it on the bed before moving to sit on the large armchair, rolling up his sleeves and unbuttoning the top buttons of his shirt. “We’ll need access to each,” he quickly adjusted on the seat, gazing up at Gao Tu and catching those calculating eyes. “It would be best if you sat on my lap.” Those eyes widened, the man looking as if he was waiting for the hilarious punchline to a joke. When none came, Gao Tu started glancing down at Wenlang's lap, a growing determination shining on his face as he gave a little nod. 

“Okay,” he whispered, taking a few tentative steps. His unease was starting to come through as he tried to figure out how to best sit on his lap. That idea alone had Wenlang struggling to keep other thoughts at bay, blinking back images of that night a few weeks ago. That night they - No. He needed to focus. It wasn’t right of him to think of that night. Not when it hurt Gao Tu.
With a quick clearing of his throat, he patted his thigh.

“You won’t crush me,” he scolded, sounding softer than he thought while taking in the sheepish look the man wore. “Sit.” With calculated movements, Gao Tu obeyed. He sat stiffly in the alpha’s lap, hands floating, unsure of where to rest. Wenlang couldn’t have that. “I need you to be close,” Wenlang reassured him, his eyes trying to convey that he was okay with whatever Gao Tu did or wanted to do to him. When words didn’t seem to do enough, he voiced his feelings, trying to prove even more of his attempts at change.
“You can place your hands anywhere-”

You are always welcome.
I just need to know that you are okay.
That you are here with me.
That you are securely in my arms.
That you are safe.
…that you somehow feel safe in my arms, here with me. 

So many thoughts ran through Wenlang’s head, but none of them he could voice aloud. Clearing his throat, he stuck with what he felt like he could say.
“…anywhere that helps you feel okay.” Gao Tu gave a little nod, settling into his lap even more, his hands falling to rest on his shoulders. Every small shift betrayed his the omega's nerves, but Wenlang was no better. The alpha’s arms hovered before finally settling - careful, hesitant - around his waist.

For a moment, neither moved. Then, with a quiet breath, Gao Tu tilted his head just enough to let Wenlang know what it was. An uncertain offering. Shen Wenlang followed, just as unsure, until their necks brushed. The contact was tentative, almost accidental. Both of them paused, as if they were waiting for the other to pull away. Neither did. Shen Wenlang never would. And, unbeknownst to him, neither would Gao Tu.
Instead, they both drew in slow breaths, Wenlang catching the faint traces of sage; sweet, delicate, and only growing stronger. Being so close to him now - something that he had believed would take years to be able to do, if ever he was allowed to - Wenlang couldn’t fight back his need to lean in closer, inhaling as if this was the freshest air he’d ever taken in. It was wonderful, overwhelming his senses and filling him with a need to protect. Such basic alpha instincts to keep his omega safe. Never let him go. They were instincts and desires he didn’t want to deny.

He thought his imagination was playing tricks on him. Conjuring up the cruel idea that Gao Tu was pulling him in, fingers gripping at his shoulders even tighter. It wasn’t until he felt Gao Tu’s nose press into his gland, his breath ghosting over his skin, that he realized it was his reality. If he was struck down at this very moment, he would die a happy man.

The omega’s breath hitched softly, a quiet sound slipping free as he relaxed further into Wenlang’s hold, trusting, open. Wenlang answered him back, a low content hum rumbling through him, tightening his arms just slightly, anchoring them both in this moment. They lingered there, trading space, breath, and scents.
The motions were becoming slower, more deliberate. The omega shifted in his alpha’s lap, turning into Wenlang even more, their closeness no longer accidental. Fingers curled more securely against fabric, against skin, and the space between them shrunk to nothingness with every passing second. Their breaths mingling, the soft, wordless sounds between them growing warmer, fuller. It was less about instinct alone and more about something quietly chosen, something shared.

Another soft noise that Wenlang could only describe as a moan escaped Gao Tu, surprising them both. Wenlang’s hold tightened just a fraction, encouraged by his sound, and fearful that Gao Tu would pull back at such vulnerability. Thankfully, it didn’t happen. Instead, something in that simple act softened the tension around them. The awkwardness hadn’t vanished all at once, but it unraveled with every passing second they were like this. They leaned closer, their movements syncing as they brushed their necks together again, longer this time, deliberate.

When Gao Tu pushed up against him, Shen Wenlang didn’t hesitate to give him easier access to himself, their closeness no longer a question but a need. As time continued to pass, the small space between them seemed to dissolve entirely. There were still traces of disbelief in the way they lingered on each other's skin, in the soft pauses between movements, but it was threaded through with something gentler. Relief? A quiet wonder?

After too little time, there was a moment they simultaneously felt it had been enough. The scent of sage was overpowered by Wenlang’s iris pheromones. The only remaining traces of sage lingered on Wenlang’s skin. They both felt incredible, much like when they had woken up in each other's arms that morning. And, much like that morning, they both were reluctant to pull away. Neither said a word, not yet, but Wenlang swore their feelings showed in the way they stayed close. In the way neither of them let the other go.
It wasn’t till Gao Tu finally spoke that Wenlang even realized his eyes had fallen shut in his bliss.

“Do you think it worked?” Gao Tu whispered, his voice rough and breathless, making Wenlang fight back those same impure thoughts he’d had earlier. Instead, Wenlang nodded his head.

“I’m sure it did,” he responded, his voice just as gruff. Gao Tu nodded, pulling back from the alpha with more hesitation than he had getting on him.

“Thank you,” he offered, but Wenlang was already shaking his head.

“You never need to thank me,” he told him, praying that his sincerity came through. Based on the surprised yet grateful smile he received, he believed it did. With slow movements, Wenlang helped them both to their feet, straightening his sleeves as he did. Gao Tu moved around him, coming back with Wenlang’s jacket. He held it out and open, a simple gesture of assistance. Wenlang’s nerves got the better of him, the alpha reaching out to take his coat back and ignoring the flutter in his chest.
“I can do it-”

“Please,” Gao Tu called, that same small smile on his lips as he held it open, “let me.” Shen Wenlang sighed, doing as he was told. Gao Tu had helped him into his suit jacket hundreds, if not thousands of times, so the alpha wasn’t sure why this specific time meant so much more to him. After he smoothed wrinkles from his shoulders, he gently called out, “Here.” Wenlang knew what he wanted, the man turning around for Gao Tu to adjust his collar. Wenlang’s gaze drifted, further down till they landed on the man. Gao Tu was handsome, Wenlang had always thought that. But, he was somehow even more so when he smelled so sweetly of the alpha.
When Gao Tu was finally pleased with his appearance, he gave a small nod of approval, gazing up at him. He was going to be the death of him for sure. With a quick clearing of his throat, and doing his best to ignore the heat rising up his neck, Wenlang motioned for them to leave.

“We should go. Gao Qing.” Gao Tu only nodded, reaching out and taking Wenlang’s offered hand.
They walked out to the hall, heading straight to her room. Gao Tu turned back to look at him, an uncertain look in his eyes, but Wenlang was there for him. He gave an encouraging nod, releasing soothing pheromones for him one last time. With a sigh of relief, Gao Tu nodded back, turning to the door and releasing Wenlang’s hand. They both felt the loss immediately.
The two walked in together, Wenlang barely a step behind him. Wenlang could hear the sounds of a basketball game, happy to see her sitting and watching the tv he had gotten her.
When the siblings saw each other, their love and relief was palpable. She reached for her brother’s hand, squeezing with unmistakable alpha determination. He had reached out just as fervently, smiling so wide at her.

“Qing,” he greeted, the two hugging briefly before pulling away.

“Tu,” she called back, “I’m glad you’re here.” To Wenlang’s surprise, she then turned and nodded at him in greeting. “Shen Wenlang.” He gave as much of a smile back, nodding her way.

“Gao Qing.” Her nose wrinkled in the next breath.

“Really wanted to make an entrance, huh?” she demanded, waving a hand in front of her nose.

“My apologies,” he offered, stepping closer when he saw his Gao Tu tense. “CEO habit, always make yourself noticed.” She seemed to accept the poor excuse.

“It’s a lot. Will you open the window in the bathroom?” Wenlang gave a little nod, immediately walking over to do as she’d requested, surprising the siblings. Gao Qing had originally been talking to Gao Tu, who was willing to do it and even moving to do as she’d asked. But Wenlang was happier to do it. Especially if it meant Gao Tu could sit a little longer. He needed the rest.
He walked into the bathroom, opening the small window in there before coming back out to the main room.

“It might be a minute or two before the smell is gone,” he said, Gao Qing nodding gratefully.
Gao Tu glanced back and forth between them, surprised by the shift in their interactions, which wasn’t all that surprising. They didn’t interact much but Gao Tu was aware that his sister hated Shen Wenlang. He was going to work hard to fix that, and based on their start this morning, he was headed in the right direction.
Gao Tu’s eyes swiftly floated over her room, landing on the large tv. His face went slack as he pointed, turning back to his sister.

“Where did that come from?” She looked over at the screen that was still playing basketball, giving a little shrug, but as she had moved, so had Gao Tu’s gaze, his attention shifting to the many baskets and gifts that were spread across the room. Wenlang was pleased to see she had looked into a few more of them. “Where did all of this come from?”

“A man showed up and dropped them off,” she explained as if it was nothing. Her nonchalance made Shen Wenlang fight off a smile, a battle he was losing. Gao Tu blinked, looking at her as if she’d lost her mind.

“A man?”

“Ya,” she said.

“You’re just accepting gifts from random men?”

“He wasn’t random,” she scolded, her eyes going wide as she remembered something, turning up to Wenlang with a smile. “Oh, also, thank you for breakfast this morning!”

“You’re welcome,” Wenlang acknowledged, a small part of him enjoying this sibling back and forth he was being brought into.

“Who was he?”

“Are you hungry?” she asked, looking around for a certain basket. “I know there’s a basket of cakes somewhere.”

“Don’t distract me with cake.”

“I believe I see it,” Wenlang called, pointing over to where he’d left the basket last night. “Shall I grab you both one?”

“Yes, please,” Gao Qing responded, looking thrilled that Shen Wenlang was helping her.

“Who was the man?” Gao Tu asked again, looking irritated, but the other two simply went about their business, Wenlang bringing the basket over and Gao Qing excitedly looking through them.

“I’ll have… that one!”

“Gao Tu, which one do you want?” Wenlang asked him, catching him off guard for a moment as his eyes lingered over the basket in front of him.

“…that one. Please,” he said after a moment, his gentle tone gone in the next question he aimed at his sister. “Who was the man?”

“Oh, that one’s good,” she acknowledged, eyeing the cake he had pointed at, smiling at Gao Tu’s irritated expression. “I had that one last night - it was delicious!”

“You got gifts from a man in the middle of the night?” Gao Tu spoke, his face looking far more displeased with every word he said. “And not only did you accept them, but you happily ate them as well.”

“I’m fine, Gao Tu,” Gao Qing drolled, turning back to him with narrowed eyes. “You don’t have to worry so much.” Gao Tu gave the look back.

“It’s my job to worry about you.”

“No,” she scolded, pointing at his chest, “your job is to be the head secretary for a billionaire who runs one of the most successful pheromone companies in the world.”

“She’s right,” Shen Wenlang said, passing Gao Qing her piece of cake. Wenlang’s little addition was unwanted by one and very much appreciated by another, the first one shaking his head at the two of them. He looked angrily between them, though Wenlang was thankful he had taken the piece of cake when he passed it to him then.

“I can do both. In fact, I have been doing both - for years now.” The statement had the opposite effect on the others in the room. Where Gao Tu had wanted validation for his hard work, Gao Qing and Wenlang only felt sorrow that he had taken it all on his shoulders. That he had struggled through it all.

“I know you have, Tu,” Gao Qing spoke, her voice small and full of sadness unspoken, a growing look of determination in her eyes as she stared at him. “But you don’t have to anymore. I’m finally getting to a point where I’ll be able to be on my own. To live a life where I get to make my own decisions.” She looked at him with the look that only a younger sibling could have when they were going to defy their elder sibling because they knew it was right. “I’ll be just fine.” Wenlang turned to the other man, spotting the shimmer in his eyes. Gao Tu smiled softly, nodding once.

“I know,” he said. Everyone in the room understood he would worry for Gao Qing anyways. Shen Wenlang stepped closer behind him then, close enough that he could hide the fact that his hand rested on Gao Tu’s back - a quiet show of solidarity. Of partnership.

The secret of their night and his ABO rank would stay safely between them, folded into the warmth of that small, steady touch.

The conversations continued after that, laughter once again filling the room, and Wenlang felt relaxed for the first time in days watching Gao Tu smile a bit more freely.

“Wait here!” Hua Yong heard Wenlang call out nervously, the door shutting loudly behind the buffoon who barreled into his room.

“It’s about time. You were supposed to text me,” he snapped, sparing Wenlang a glance. It wasn’t till he took in his frantic look that he stopped writing his notes, watching the way the idiot started running about the room. “What the hell are you doing?”

“Gao Tu’s coming in,” he panicked, glaring at Hua Yong’s things like they had done him a personal offense. “Why’s your room a fucking mess?” He grabbed Hua Yong’s leftover food from that morning and immediately turned and threw it in the trash.

“Hey!” Hua Yong called. He was ignored, Wenlang moving on to some of his other things that Chang Yu had brought. “I was going to finish that,” he grumbled, growing even more annoyed when the alpha scoffed.

“No you weren’t.” He shuffled some clothes around, snapping his fingers in Hua Yong’s way as he recalled something. “Don’t bring up that Gao Tu passed out. He doesn’t want people to know.”

“I figured that much,” he mumbled, glaring at Wenlang again. 

“And don’t bring up that he’s an omega,” he continued, glancing around the room for more things to clean. “That’s only something he and I officially know, and we’re trying to keep it that way.” Hua Yong narrowed his gaze at the man, stunned that they had made such a jump in their relationship already that Gao Tu had admitted it to him. But perhaps this little hospitalization had been good for them in that sense. He stared at him.

“Why are you telling me this?”

“Because we both know how you have a hard time not bringing up certain things,” Wenlang stated, sounding as if he was being factual rather than a complete and utter liar. “You talk too much and make things worse.” Hua Yong, for all his grace, felt his mouth fall open in shock, gawking at the man while struggling to regain his composure.

“I know damn well that you did not just say that to me,” he remarked, watching Wenlang as he kept running around, moving his boxes of letters so that the chairs were free and open. “I can’t believe you said that!”

“Well, someone had to tell you!” he snapped, not even having the decency to spare him a glance. “It’s a real problem of yours!” Again, Hua Yong was left scowling at the man, his eyes following him as he continued to clean up the space.

“I could kill you.”

“Aa aa,” he scolded, sparing him a glance then as he placed a box of letters on top of each other. “Where’s the fun in that?”

“I can go into great detail.”

“Not right now, there’s no time,” Wenlang brushed him off, standing up tall and giving the room a nod of approval. He jabbed a finger Hua Yong’s way. “Don’t bring it up.”

“Bite me.” Wenlang scowled.

“Gross.” He cleared his throat, walking over to the door and opening it like a nervous teenager about to greet their date. In a way, Hua Yong found it rather cute, if his anger and irritation weren’t overshadowing the feeling.
“Come in,” Shen Wenlang called out, his voice gentler than before. Hua Yong could smell the little omega as he walked in, but it wasn’t all sage he smelled. It was a mingled scent of iris and sage; more iris than anything else. Had Hua Yong had to guess, he’d have said that the two had scented one another before they came in here. He would ask about it later.
Gao Tu’s nervous self stood rather awkwardly as he greeted him.

“Secretary Hua.” Polite as ever.

“Secretary Gao, long time no see,” he greeted, smiling at the man before him. Gao Tu responded in kind.

“Long time no see.” He glanced around for a moment, thinking over his words as he spoke. “I was told you were hospitalized due to the earthquake,” he commented, motioning around him. “I just wanted to stop by. See how you’re doing. We brought you a basket.” He held up the basket of fruit and flowers, a gesture that was all too kind and entirely Gao Tu’s.

“It was Gao Tu’s idea,” Wenlang cut in, confirming what he thought and looking rather bored of the conversation. How this gentle and kind man liked Wenlang was an enigma to the enigma.

“I figured the kind gesture came from Secretary Gao,” he chimed in, his cheery voice not hiding the bite to it. Wenlang scoffed, Hua Yong elegantly ignoring him in order to turn back to Gao Tu with a smile. “Thank you.” Gao Tu nodded, attempting to move towards the table, most likely to place the basket down next to Wenlang’s old bouquet. But he was stopped before he could even take a step, a firm hand coming up to take the basket from him.
The scowl Wenlang typically wore was as much of an old friend to Hua Yong as Shen Wenlang himself. But this scowl was not a regular hateful one that he normally associated with the alpha. This one was tinged with a softness and concern Hua Yong was rather unfamiliar with. A gentleness that he had no idea the alpha was capable of possessing, reserved only for his omega. To his amusement, Hua Yong saw the alpha’s other hand snake around the omega’s small waist, guiding him to the other side.

“I’ll take it,” Wenlang told him, nodding towards the most comfy chair in the room - the one he had specifically cleared off for him. “Come sit down.” It wasn’t an offer. Rather a command. But, Gao Tu looked grateful nonetheless, letting himself be guided over to the recliner. Hua Yong still noted how red Gao Tu’s ears had gotten, along with the slight flush crawling up Wenlang’s neck.
Gao Tu sat, unknowingly being watched like a hawk by the dumbest alpha in the world. When he settled nicely, giving Wenlang a nod, the alpha turned to put the basket down on the table. It was more like he tossed it, but Hua Yong chose to ignore his brutish behavior in favor of having some fun. If Wenlang was going to be careless with his nice little basket that Gao Tu had gotten him, then he was going to be a little careless with following the rules the alpha had set before Gao Tu had come in.

“Secretary Gao, I heard you were in the hospital,” he said, his voice as smooth as silk. The two practically snapped their necks to stare at him, the air around them turning sharp and bitter with their pheromones; burnt iris and bitter sage. Where Gao Tu looked like he’d been caught red handed, Wenlang looked ready to attack Hua Yong. In fact, he looked so caught up in his anger, he didn’t even notice Gao Tu turn his way, a slight look of betrayal in his eyes. Perhaps Hua Yong had been a little too teasing to the omega, so, he raised a single eyebrow his way, gaining the man’s attention once more.
“Something about your sister?” The relief that flowed from the omega was almost tangible as his shoulders sagged a little.

“Oh,” Gao Tu nodded, smiling a little with the new clarification, though Wenlang still looked ready to strike him. “Yes, I’m taking care of my sister after her procedure.”

“Such a devoted older brother,” Hua Yong commented, nodding his way. “She’s lucky to have you.” Gao Tu shook his head.

“I’m lucky to have her,” Gao Tu corrected, a proud and adoring smile on his lips that had Hua Yong's own slipping.
To see and hear such things made Hua Yong oddly envious of this girl he’d never met. Ever since he was a child, Hua Yong had silently wished his siblings hadn’t been the ungrateful and idiotic beings that they were, always wanting to have a proper relationship with them. But given his ABO status, their father’s power and wealth, and just how his siblings had been raised, it hadn’t been a possibility for the Hua’s. The closest thing he had to it was Shen Wenlang, and he was the world’s very own human form of a headache.

“Gao Tu, how have you been?” Hua Yong asked. Wenlang’s gaze was left solely and menacingly for Hua Yong, but the enigma ignored him perfectly, smirking up at Gao Tu who gave him a little nod.

“I’ve been well, thank you.” Hua Yong nodded, turning up to Wenlang who stood behind Gao Tu now. He watched him as he began miming that he was going to kill Hua Yong, running a thumb across his neck. It almost made the enigma laugh aloud.
Honestly, Hua Yong could have smacked his stupid acquaintance, and a small part of him could have hit his little omega too. They were unbelievably oblivious and painfully obvious with one other. However, for today, he opted out for a little fun instead. His goal was to get the two morons to talk properly, though Hua Yong was a realist and new not to get his hopes up. But, being here with them gave himself a better chance of catching Wenlang in the act of self sabotage. He might even be able to stop it from happening.

“Oh, Secretary Gao, did you hear?” he asked, motioning to the alpha behind him. “President Shen met his fated omega a few nights ago at the X-Hotel?” Gao Tu froze, his face turning pale as his smile fell from his lips once again. And yet all of that was missed by Wenlang who started to bark at Hua Yong like the animal he was.

“What do you mean, ‘fated omega’? Don’t say it like that,” he muttered, a scowl on his face. “You make it sound gross.” Now, Hua Yong knew what his friend meant - that he, Hua Yong, made the idea of Gao Tu being his fated omega sound gross, because everything he said sounded gross to Wenlang. The reality was, the idea of Gao Tu being his mate brought nothing but joy to Wenlang, which is why he was blushing in this very moment. However, thanks to his ridiculously horrendous mouth, it came across in a negative way that made Hua Yong want to attack Wenlang right then and there. Especially when he saw the smallest flinch from the omega next to him. Hua Yong raised a brow at the idiot.

“Did I say something wrong?” Wenlang didn’t answer, the two glaring at each other as the tension rose in the room. It was enough for the omega to switch into his secretary ‘fix-it’ mode.

“Secretary Hua, I have heard about that night at X-Hotel,” he admitted, his words precise and informative.

“I see,” Hua Yong said, glancing over to Wenlang with fake sympathy. “Wrong place, wrong time, huh? Shen Wenlang.” Gao Tu gave a firm nod. Hua Yong smiled. “Secretary Gao, have you found out who the omega was that night?” The man’s gaze shifted quickly up to Shen Wenlang. Hua Yong could see it then; his anxiety with just a touch of fear. Wenlang looked no better. He was practically pleading with the man in front of him, but Hua Yong couldn’t tell what he wanted. Gao Tu turned away from the alpha, stealing his features once more.

“Not yet,” he lied, so smoothly that had Hua Yong not known the truth, he’d have never questioned him. Maybe their lack of relationship wasn’t completely on Wenlang’s useless brain after all. “There was a problem with the security cameras at the hotel. I’ll be looking into it further on Tuesday when I return. But it’s clear that it wasn’t President Shen’s fault.”

“Really?” Hua Yong asked, seeing the way Wenlang took a horrified step towards him.

“Gao Tu,” he whispered, his voice filled with horror. But the omega didn’t turn to him.

“Secretary Gao, you know President Shen so well. No wonder you’ve been able to stay by his side for so many years,” Hua Yong praised, eyeing them thoughtfully. “You’re so loyal to one anothers. Like real partners.” The double meaning of partners did not go unnoticed by either one of them, though Gao Tu merely nodded in acknowledgement, civilly choosing to ignore the other possible meaning. On the other hand, Wenlang looked ready to strike Hua Yong yet again, but he couldn’t hide the flush that had attacked his cheeks once more. Hua Yong smiled slyly as he picked up his phone.
“You know, I have a friend who works at X-Hotel and they managed to get me some evidence from that night.” He turned to Gao Tu’s horrified face. “Would you like to see it?”

“What?” Wenlang demanded, missing the look on his secretary’s face completely, reaching towards Hua Yong’s phone in an attempt to take it. “Give it to me.” Hua Yong snatched it back, the two glaring at one another.

“I didn’t ask you.” Wenlang’s glare only darkened.

“Hua Yong.”

“Shen Wenlang.” The two were in their little stand off, both missing the way Gao Tu watched them nervously, unsure of how to handle this situation. Hua Yong turned back to Gao Tu. “It’s only the back, not the face. But the Hotel wasn’t open to the public, and there were very few people invited.” He smiled up at the man, though Gao Tu looked ready to pass out. “You should be able to narrow it down off his suit, right, Secretary Gao?” The man didn’t speak, because the dumbest man on the planet decided to talk instead.

“Enough. I don’t care about that night anymore.” Hua Yong turned up to him slowly, trying to understand what he was doing.

“You don’t care about the omega who took advantage of you?” Wenlang stormed in front of Gao Tu, like a proper alpha protecting their mate from a threat. It almost made Hua Yong smile to see.

“I took advantage of him,” Wenlang said, his voice strong with conviction as he stood to his fullest height. Hua Yong’s gaze narrowed, his eyes fluttering down to watch Gao Tu. The man stared up at Wenlang like he hung the very stars himself. Utterly and unbelievably besotted with the alpha. They both were fools, but Hua Yong was far from done with them.
“I don’t care about that night anymore, and I don’t care what 'evidence' you claim to have.” Before anything else could be said, the man’s phone went off. Wenlang fished around in his pocket, glaring down at the screen with a small sigh.

“Who is it?” Hua Yong asked.

“Chang Yu.” Hua Yong nodded, making a mental note to get his secretary a gift for having such impeccable timing.

“Why not go out to the hall and answer it,” Hua Yong offered, hiding his command in the gentle offering. Wenlang scowled, already walking away and muttering under his breath about Hua Yong being a fool. But the man took a few steps back, gazing down at Gao Tu with a stern look.

“Don’t leave without me.” Gao Tu took a stunned moment before he nodded once.

“Okay.” It seemed to please Wenlang, the man stepping out without hesitation, leaving the two of them alone in the room. Hua Yong already had a plan to get the omega talking, but none of it went his way when Gao Tu spoke up first.
“Secratry Hua,” he called, surprising the enigma that he started their conversation. “I would like to see the evidence.”