Archive of Our Own ^beta

It’s funny how an inanimate object can feel like it’s the most judgiest thing in the world. Eren blinks as he stares at the outfit he’s supposed to wear held against his chest, mouth twisting to the side as he smooths out the silky white fabric. It’s almost like it’s mocking him, reminding him of what’s to happen, no escape.

Laughter bubbles from outside his door. Eren casts a distasteful glower at it. Must be such a relief to finally have their son settle with an alpha. Bet they’re even more ecstatic to finally merge their pack with the powerful Ackermans, even if it means offering their omega son as a ‘gift’. How amazing it must be to have gained a higher status from mating him off to a complete fucking stranger.

With a huff, Eren moves to the door and cracks it open so he can call out, “Can one of you help me get into this damn thing?” They can celebrate later when he isn’t in earshot, thanks. He’s half a mind to procrastinate, to be late to his own wedding. Maybe his mate-to-be will get rid of him and he can avoid this mess…

Eren hears the footsteps approaching and undoes the zip at the back of his dress, quickly stepping inside so he’s mostly covered aside from his exposed backside. He can’t quite reach it to do up himself…

A knock preludes the door creaking open slowly as Carla asks, “Alright if I come in?”

“That’s why I called out to you,” Eren retorts. He winces immediately after saying it, knowing he shouldn’t be so harsh with his mother; she only wants the best for him.

As expected, he receives a flick against his ear. “Don’t give me that kind of attitude,” Carla scolds with a roll of her eyes. Even with a sigh, she steps closer and begins pulling the white fabric together to zip it up behind Eren, mindful of his tail. And with the clasp at the top clipped into place, she smiles and announces, “You look wonderful… Levi Ackerman is going to love you. How can he resist?”

“Yeah, I bet he’s going to love getting mated to a stranger,” Eren says with a snort, glowering at his reflection in the mirror. “He’s going to be so ecstatic to have me as his omega and not someone who actually wants to be mated.” He really should’ve expected the sharp tug on his ear, whining and leaning with it as he hisses, “Stop, you’ll mess up my hair!”

“Thought you didn’t care about being mated?” Carla responds, a sharpness to her words, but the crease to her brow gives away how worried she is, ears pinned flat against her head.

The omega shrugs and turns away, doesn’t want to see the disappointment on his mother’s face. “I might as well look nice for the day I lose everything.”

“You’re not losing anything.” With a hand on Eren’s side, Carla nudges him so he stands up straighter and she can fix his hair. With a forced smile, she positions the flowers and veil atop his head and pins it into place so it won’t fall. “Just… Mikasa says he’s good, you’ll be fine. At least trust her judgement?”

A low sigh spills out of Eren as he closes his eyes and nods. Turning around to face Carla, he says, “Let’s just… get it over with.” He just needs to power through this. It’s for the best, it’ll make both of their packs even stronger. Last he heard, Levi Ackerman has been such a long-time bachelor that even his own family have grown bothered by his lack of a mate. So this mating? It’s a win-win for everyone except them.

Stepping out into the hall, Grisha’s gaze lands on him as a bright grin spreads across his lips. “Well, look at you! Today’s your big day, huh?” His eyes shift, looking at something behind him and quickly sobering up. Eren side-glances his mother to see her shaking her head, only to stop and smile at Eren.

“Can we go already?” Eren asks as he picks up the box containing his shoes from the table—he can put them on when he gets to the venue, they’re so uncomfortable. As much as he would rather skip his wedding entirely, he can’t shame his family’s name like that.

Grisha nods and retrieves his phone and keys. “Well, I didn’t want to stress you, but a car has been waiting outside for a little bit. I received a message saying we will be driven there by, uh, a chauffeur?”

Eren blinks. Shit, is he actually late? He’s been making the driver wait for him this whole time? “Crap, okay.” After taking another look in the mirror—why does he even care? He doesn’t know this guy!—Eren stands by the door, and picks up the fabrics of his dress. “Do you have my clothes for the reception?”

“Right here,” Carla answers, following close behind.

With a steady breath to steel his nerves, Eren steps outside, blinking at the sight of a sleek, stylish car waiting in their driveway. Well… at least it isn’t something gaudy or a complete trashbox. Though, to be fair, it’s not like the Ackerman pack is lacking in wealth.

Eren barely takes a few steps outside, mindful to hold his dress up to avoid getting it dirty, before he hears the driver’s door open, tensing up as the person steps out.

A blond man exits the vehicle, circling around and giving a polite nod of his head, clothed in a formal suit. Eren hesitates only briefly before continuing to approach. Alright, well… it’s a nice gesture, he supposes, sending a personal chauffeur to pick him up for their wedding.

“My name is Mike,” the driver begins, opening up the rear door and waving a hand. “I’ll be delivering you to the wedding venue.”

Eren swallows a scoff but mutters under his breath, “Delivering me to my doom, more like.” Thankfully, either no one hears or they elect to not comment. Carla shuffles around to the other side of the car. When the driver offers a hand to help Eren into his seat, he squints and turns away, climbing in by himself.

With Grisha seated in the front and Carla holding the bag containing his reception outfit, Mike closes the door and gets behind the wheel. “Shouldn’t take long to get there,” the man states. Eren doesn’t respond as the engine starts and they begin moving. Time to get this over and done with…

Swallowing down the anxious bubble welling within his throat, Eren elects to watch the houses and cars fly past. Who knows how long it’ll be before he can come back. The Ackermans live a fair while away from his family home. Maybe his new mate is a controlling knot-head who won’t let him go anywhere without his presence or, judging by the fact he has a chauffeur, a personal bodyguard. But Mikasa wouldn’t let that happen… right?

In the background, he can hear his dad talking to the driver, asking about the Ackermans, what it’s like working for Levi, and what his house is like. Eren blocks it out, would rather not think about it, just get it over and done with.

By the time he smells the ocean getting closer, Eren feels resigned to his fate. No way he can get out of this now, huh?

When they eventually pull into a parking spot while Eren is busy putting his uncomfortable shoes on—these fucking straps!—Mike asks, “Is your Maid of Honour here already? Do you know where?”

“Man of Honour,” Eren corrects as he opens his door, not bothering to wait for the chauffeur to do it. His feet protest at the pretty shoes—ugh, they’re so tight in all the wrong places—but he forces himself to stand and ensures all of his dress’ delicate fabrics are pulled clean of the car before shutting the door maybe a teensy bit harder than necessary.

The omega ignores the glare he receives from Mike. Whatever, he can deal; it’s not him who’s getting married to a stranger.

Armin said he would be waiting at the little gazebo area with the bouquet and everything, but where is…?

“This way,” Carla says, circling around to take Eren’s hand and begin leading him down the pathway. “I think I can see Mikasa and Armin up ahead.” Eren blinks and, sure enough, he can spot the two waiting for them to arrive, standing beside one another right outside the gazebo that had been cordoned off.

As he approaches, Eren slows down upon spotting someone else he’s unfamiliar with dressed formally. That’s not Levi, is it? No, no, he would be waiting at the altar down on the shore. So this must be his Best Man, right?

Armin spots him first, brightening up and waving Eren over with a smile, but his slightly too wide eyes give away the truth. Mikasa turns to greet him, bouquet in hand, and Eren can’t help but admire the pretty flowers despite what it represents; the last day he’ll be free.

“You look amazing,” the blonde states as he hugs Eren, squeezing a little bit harder than normal. He gets the same treatment from Mikasa, the two avoiding holding his stare for longer than a few seconds.

The stranger has no problem offering a hand to greet him. “Nice to finally meet you, Eren. I’m Hange.” Then, with the omega’s hand in theirs, they lean forward to say in a quieter tone like it’s a secret, “Out of all the years I’ve known Levi, I’ve never seen him quite so worked up about anything before! So congrats.”

“Uh, thanks?” Eren’s brow furrows. Is that supposed to be reassuring? His fiancé is so worked up to claim an omega for himself… probably didn’t have much luck while courting if he has to resort to an arranged marriage.

“We still have a few minutes to relax,” Armin says, looking at Eren. “We can stay here and talk.”

Good, that means they have plenty of time to ask questions and find out what his future mate is like.

“What do you mean he’s ‘worked up’?” Eren asks, staring at Hange as the brunette gazes out at the ocean with pursed lips before turning back to the omega with a bemused grin..

“Well, he’s completely rearranged his house, for starters. Bought a new couch, new bed, new mattress, everything!” Oh. That’s… expensive. For him, at least. Maybe it doesn’t mean so much for Levi? Also, a little bit presumptuous, buying a new bed, hmm. Eren can’t help but pull a face. Hange tilts their head. “Don’t worry; Levi’s a bit rough around the edges, but he’s got a heart golder than C-3PO.”

Eren blinks. Armin giggles and nods along, understanding the reference where Eren does not.

“I wouldn’t send you off to get mated to some horrible alpha,” Mikasa promises..

“Yeah!” Hange’s smile shifts for a split second before they turn towards Eren to ask in a dead serious tone, “Important question; are you any good at cleaning?”

Eren blinks. Is… Is this some kind of trick? Should he give a specific answer? What kind of question is that? ‘Are you any good at cleaning?’ Huh?!

“I mean, doesn’t everyone clean?” he answers, brows drawn together, a crease scrunching his nose. “Why do you ask? That’s so fucking weird.”

The brunette laughs at his confusion, grinning and shaking their head. “Don’t worry, don’t worry! Levi’s just a very clean person and I doubt he’d be happy being mated to a slob is all.”

“Yeah, well, I’m not a slob,” Eren says as he fiddles with the fabric of his dress. So his mate is a ‘clean person’ ? What’s that supposed to mean? A clean freak? Likes everything organised in a particular way? Or does he have OCD? This dang Best Man is only making Eren more concerned!

“Good! Then he’ll have nothing to complain about,” Hange states with a nod as they toy with their glasses, ensuring they’re smudge-free.

“We can head down now,” Carla says as she checks the time on her phone. She peers at Eren with a sad softness he hasn’t… really seen on her face before. “Are you ready?”

“Fuck no,” he spits, ears pinned back.

Judging by the silence that follows, that mustn’t have been what they were expecting him to say. Well, it’s the truth! He isn’t fucking ready to have his life taken away from him, shackled and owned by an alpha he hasn’t even met yet!

Mikasa sighs from beside him, shaking her head, ears flat, as she says, “Eren…”

“What? Am I supposed to be all happy and excited, oh yay, time to spend the rest of my life with some stranger!” Eren snorts, glaring down at the dress clinging to him like it’s a stain, a piece of shit on the underside of his shoes. “I want to yell in that asshole’s face to get himself a mail order bride instead!”

“Oh, that’ll be interesting…” Hange mutters, watching curiously.

Eren whips around to snap something at them, maybe tell them to shut up, only for Carla to pull him away and stand in front of him. “That’s enough, Eren,” she growls. “I know it’s not the best outcome, but it’ll really benefit everyone. Mikasa and… and Hange both say he isn’t a bad alpha, so at least trust them, okay?”

Teeth grinding together, Eren clutches at the delicate white fabric of his outfit and snaps, “I don’t care! It’s not Mikasa or Hange getting fucking mated to him.” He lets slip a low growl as he gestures between the four surrounding him. “ You guys can mate whoever you want, someone you actually love, while I’m being thrown to the fucking wolves!”

“That’s not true,” Carla says, frown deepening as she holds her son’s burning gaze. “We’re right here with you. He’s a family friend, not a stranger, so you’ll still be able to see and visit us. Stop kicking up such a fuss. You’ve had days to prepare for this, and now you want to throw a tantrum? When your mate is right there on the beach waiting for you?”

“Good,” Eren sneers, “I hope he hears and knows that he’s a cowardly knot-headed asshole who can’t even get himself an omega without forcing them to mate his ugly ass!”

“I mean, he’s far from ugly,” Hange says, almost conversational in their tone. Eren blinks, huffing. What…? That’s not the point— “He’s just not a sweet talker. People aren’t fond of brutal honesty, even if they ask for it. I think he’s going to love your fiery attitude.”

Eren swallows down all the sour, bitter words bubbling up in his throat, scratching at his insides trying to get out. No, screw it, they’ll get nothing from him after putting him through this.

“Eren?” Armin asks, a faint whine to his word as he steps closer, concern oozing from him.

Eren merely looks at the bouquet in his Man of Honour’s hands and snatches it away, glaring at the pretty flowers and making sure they’re arranged in an appealing manner.

“Are you done now?” Carla asks, looking at something behind Eren. The omega merely glares at the floor, completely ignoring them. His feet hurt, the dress feels weird, and he wants to go home. As much as he wants to fight, wants to yell and scream and make a scene, that would only result in the police being called and his family getting in trouble.

Finally Grisha arrives, unaware of the drama that just unfolded, and smiles as he asks, “Are we ready to go? It’s supposed to start soon and everyone’s already down on the beach waiting for you, Eren.”

Shit, it’s time already?

Taking a long breath, Eren doesn’t respond as he moves past the rest of the wedding party and begins descending the steps. He almost worries about how the fuck he’s supposed to walk across all that sand, only to blink at the carpet rolled out across the sand, a long runner leading all the way to the small collection of chairs filled with friends and family.

Eren hesitates upon stepping onto it, only for a hand to take him by the elbow, squeezing. Grisha puts on a smile. “You’ll be fine,” he reassures, patting the omega’s hand. He almost pulls it free, but he still needs to be ‘given away’, as much as the thought alone makes his stomach roil.

He feels almost wobbly, hates the way his shoes feel, cutting at the worst spots, can’t wait to get out of them and into something more comfortable.

Ahead, he spots who he thinks must be Levi, the alpha standing next to a woman who Eren almost mistakes for Mikasa at such a distance.

Eren slows down when his intended spots him and straightens up, visibly perking. His chest tightens. He wants nothing more than to turn tail and run.

With his dad at his side, Eren swallows and allows himself to be led down the beachy carpet-covered aisle. In the chairs on either side of him, Eren can spot his friends, sees a few smiling at him while other less-impressed friends glower at the groom, no doubt blaming him for taking their friend away.

Ahead, the woman previously speaking to the man steps away with a glance at Eren, sitting down nearby while Hange scurries along the outside to stand beside who he assumes must be Levi.

The man watches him intently, gaze a familiar grey like Mikasa’s but narrowed upon him with scrutiny. The hairs on the back of his neck stand on end as he takes each step, tail tucked, a low whine clinging to his throat.

By the time he gets close to the alpha, Eren leans back, eyes wide, sniffing the air for the stranger's scent, something he can ground himself with.

He doesn’t get a moment to rest, instead finding Grisha nudging Eren forward towards Levi, leaving the omega standing there as his fiancé holds a hand out to him expectantly, not speaking a single word, his expression giving away nothing.

Eren squints at the offered hand before huffing and taking it in his own. Fine, he’s here, he’s dressed up, might as well get this shit over and done with. But he’s not going quietly.

His knuckles whiten when he pinches tighter, clamping down around the alpha’s fingers and squeezing to the point that he knows it must hurt. If he’d done this to Armin, his friend would’ve cried out and pulled his hand away.

Instead of flinching or letting slip any signs of pain or discomfort, Levi merely stares down at their joined hands. Just… stares at it. Doesn’t grimace or show fang. His ears don’t even flatten, remaining perked up, aimed at him, alert and attentive.

A thumb gently rests on the back of his hand. Eren almost expects retaliation, payback for his brattiness, but the man merely rests it there, doesn’t push, doesn’t press, doesn’t try to pry his hand free.

And when Levi meets his gaze, it’s impossible to read what’s on his mind. Is he angry? Disappointed? Frustrated? Fuck’s sake, he hates this!

Before he can speak, a shadow moves before them, the celebrant stepping forward to wed them.

Eren peers at the blonde man. He’s not the same one as the driver, no, but it’s certainly not a familiar face either. Levi must’ve picked him then.

Eren hears shuffling behind him, figures they must be taking their seats, and casts a glance towards Armin as he stands nearby. His friend smiles, attempting to be reassuring, but Eren swallows a whine in response. This fucking sucks.

“Well, thank you all for gathering here on such short notice,” the officiant begins, voice loud enough to be heard over the crashing waves. Eren takes a long, slow breath, calming his nerves despite the way he wants to simply turn right around and walk all the way home if that’s what he has to do to get out of this. “I honestly never believed this would happen, not in this life anyways.”

Eren frowns, squinting at the man. What’s that supposed to mean?

Well, judging by the way Levi tsks under his breath and how the blonde alpha—Erwin, he introduces himself as—looks at the man knowingly, he must’ve doubted Levi would ever get mated. Oh boy, so they’re being officiated by one of his intended’s friends instead of a professional, that’s great.

While the blonde beside them talks about typical boring mating stuff, uniting two packs together, Eren’s gaze drifts over to the man holding his hand.

He doesn’t smile. Doesn’t even attempt to joke or flirt with Eren. The alpha isn’t even looking at him! Does he even care about being mated?

Maybe he’s not pleased with this decision…? Eren snorts at the thought, quiet enough to not interrupt the ceremony, but enough to draw Levi’s attention. Steely eyes land upon the brunette, brow pinching ever so slightly as the two regard one another. Well… he’s certainly not ugly like Eren had expected, that’s for sure, damn that Hange person for being right.

The thumb on his hand moves, shifting, brushing over a knuckle. Eren loosens his grip. If this guy isn’t as keen on his mating as he initially thought, maybe Eren should redirect his ire to someone who actually influenced it.

A throat clears. Eren blinks, straightening up. “Your vows?” Erwin prompts.

“Why the fuck would I write vows?” Levi says, surprising even Eren as the alpha stares without a hint of amusement. “I don’t know a single thing about him.”

A chuckle bubbles its way out of Eren’s lips before he can help it, drawing the gazes of those around him. What? It’s funny! Why would he write vows about a stranger he doesn’t know? Hehehe, it’s just such a not-typical thing…

Erwin sighs and shakes his head, staring at Levi with a tired expression. “You couldn’t even try? Say at least something nice.”

Eren half expects him to refuse, to tell him to simply get on with it. So when the alpha turns towards Eren, he sobers up, shivering a little at the weight of such intense eyes that seem to pierce through him.

“I have a prenup, so don’t kill me in my sleep.”

Eren snorts, lips pressing together, dammit, noo, don’t laugh at that dumb shit! Hange, however, has zero concern over cackling, loud and raucous, a couple of his friends joining in.

Damn this alpha for making him smile!

The officiant sighs as he turns towards Eren and asks, “Do you have any vows or something you’d like to say to your fiancé before mating?”

Eren arches a singular eyebrow at the question, meeting Levi’s vaguely curious stare. He’s half tempted to say the same thing back; why in the hell would he bother wasting his time writing vows for a person he knows nothing about?! But, well, Levi at least said something, albeit something witty, not quite loving.

He should do the same back, playfully tease his soon-to-be-mate so he knows Eren can hold his own.

“Didn’t realise I was marrying someone old enough to be my dad.” From behind, hears a couple surprised little chortles—with some very noticeable cackling from Hange—and his own parents gasping in shock. “Do you need help picking a retirement home?”

“Better be one that’s cleaned at least three times a day,” Levi responds. Eren sniffs at the air, but all he can smell is the alpha’s deep, soothing aroma, no hints of agitation or annoyance. Okay… okay, he’s not mad. If anything, he seems fine with playing along with Eren’s snark. A smile curves across Eren’s lips.

“Okay, skipping the vows then…” Erwin claps his hands. “Levi Ackerman, do you take Eren—”

“No, I’m just standing here for fun—Yes, Erwin, get on with it,” the alpha says with a low growl.

The blonde sighs, pinching his nose before turning to Eren. “And you, Eren? Do you?”

Eren’s mirth slowly fades away at the serious question, licking his lips and swallowing. He’s gone through all this chaos and stress, let his hair be meticulously tied up, squeezed himself in this damn dress, maybe yelled a bit too much at his friends and family… just to get here.

With a slow breath, he gives a small nod. “Yes, I do.” His ears remain flattened against his head, tail shaking ever so slightly. He can’t help it!

Levi’s eyes remain locked upon the omega, sharpness fading. Eren elects to stare at the man’s suit instead of his face, chewing the inside of his lip. A beach wedding… it’s very pretty, scenic, something he wouldn’t have minded at all had he been the one picking who he was mated to. It was one thing he was firm on.

“Well, this went a lot faster than I expected,” Erwin says with a breathy laugh. No one else joins in, likely too tense or concerned about Eren. The blonde waves his hand between the two, smiling as he announces, “You may claim your omega.”

Eren falters at those words. Well, he knew it was coming, but he hasn’t had a lot of time to mentally prepare for it! When Levi squeezes his hand again, the omega blinks down at where they’re joined together.

“Hey.” His gaze flicks upwards to Levi’s face, now much closer than it was previously, swallowing. Eren feels his face flush pink, hot all over, especially when the alpha slides a finger under his chin. He can’t hide from his soon-to-be-mate’s stare. “Just breathe,” Levi tells him. Then, quieter, “Bare your throat.”

It’s not the baring his throat that’s the problem; it’s what comes after that.

Taking a slow breath, Eren obeys, the hand holding his shifting and drawing him closer. His chin is nudged to the side, neck exposed to the chilly breeze.

He expects to be bitten without warning, so when Levi’s lips brush over his scent gland, soft and appreciative, Eren’s hairs stand on end. His lungs freeze, breath held as a tongue drags across his neck. Eren swallows a startled little noise, only to jolt when teeth finally sink into his scent gland, breaking skin.

Fingers latch onto Levi’s suit, knuckles white. Eren’s little gasp trails off into a whine, tail trembling as his head tips further to the side, neck exposed.

Eren shuffles his uncomfortable feet, toe nudging against Levi’s shoes as he twitches. When he shifts, cheek barely brushing against the alpha’s hair, hot air rushes across his throat. Fuck, how long does he have to bite him for it to be solidified? Eren squirms and tugs slightly at Levi’s jacket again.

As sharp alpha teeth finally retreat, Eren shivers, whine sitting high in his throat. He lets slip a strangled little noise at the hot tongue dragging over the mark that had been created—a permanent claim.

Eren blinks, vision only slightly blurry as Levi withdraws, licking a faint tinge of blood from his lips.

Clapping rings in his ears, a couple celebratory hollers filling the gaps, especially from Hange, but his mate only has eyes for him, brows drawn together.

Gently unwinding Eren’s fingers from his clothes, Levi squeezes the omega’s hands. “Good?” he asks, gaze dropping to the bite mark he created.

“Just a little… dizzy,” Eren answers with a hot breath, lifting a hand to gingerly touch the raw bite mark on his neck. It twinges and aches with a warm, dull throb. His heart beats hard and fast, racing after being claimed, shaking his head to try to clear it up, only to make the dizziness worse.

A whine slips into Eren’s throat as he turns, looking back towards his friends and family as he steps on the carpet, ow, his feet hurt, it’s uneven, hng—

He wobbles.

Firm arms wrap around his middle, squeezing, keeping him upright as his head pulses. Eren huffs and stares down at the black sleeves holding onto him, skin flushed.

He wants… to be home. To be out of this stupid dress and shoes that feel like they’re cutting his feet apart. Eren wants to be with his parents and friends and people he knows and loves, somewhere safe and familiar.

Instead, he stares at the grey eyes of an alpha he’s known for only a few minutes—his mate.

A hand rests upon Eren’s back, smoothing over exposed skin. Levi asks, “You ready for the reception?”

Eren takes a second to register the question, debating on how to answer before saying, “Just… In a moment.” He isn’t pushed more than that, Levi giving a sharp nod as he gently releases Eren from his hold, making sure he doesn’t wobble or fall over again.

His friends step closer, some smiling while others send nasty looks towards his new mate, no doubt blaming him for this situation. Well… it’s not Levi’s fault, he supposes; the alpha was just as keen on this as Eren was.

Before Eren can register it, he’s wrapped up in a hug, tight and squeezing the air out of the omega as he wheezes and hurriedly pats a couple of their backs until they release him. Sasha in particular struggles to let go, apologising and talking about how they should’ve gone through with the kidnapping scheme so he wouldn’t be mated to some weirdo. Heh…

“Hey, are you feeling alright?” Historia asks first, her smile wavering but still present. Behind her, Jean glares at Levi, scowling but holding himself back. Better not start a scene in public.

“I’m alright,” Eren answers, scooting a bit away from Levi. When he looks, the alpha is being crowded by Hange, Erwin, Mike, the woman he assumes is his mother, and another man he doesn’t know. Beside them, Carla and Grisha stand together, chatting, occasionally glancing at him or his new mate.

“You didn’t look too hot up there,” Jean notes, still refusing to look away from Levi. He smells horrible, foul, scent flooded with agitation.

Eren steps further away, doesn’t want his friends to try starting a fight for him; someone might call the cops. “I’m good, okay? I mean, it’s a shit situation, but I’ll be fine. I’ll still hang out with you guys and stuff, yeah?”

“You better,” Connie says. “Maybe we’ll get to visit your new house? Aren’t the Ackermans loaded or something? Bet he’s got a cool ass place.”

“Ah, only if that’s okay with you two. Don’t want to piss him off or anything.” Armin adds on.

“How does it feel?” Mikasa asks. Eren turns, blinking at her. “With the bite. How does it affect you?”

He pauses, taking in the question and trying to get an idea on how he really does feel. Swallowing, Eren admits, “It feels… weird. Like, I know the skin’s broken, but instead of it hurting, it’s a dull warmth. And I’m mad about it but… I guess it feels nice?”

Which isn’t fair. He wants to hate Levi, despite the alpha being unwillingly put in the same situation as him. But when Eren turns and attempts to glare at the man that is now his mate, he falters—silver eyes are already on him, watching. An ear flicks with the faintest head tilt before Levi returns to conversing with Hange.

Eren whips his head back around with a huff. Dammit! How long has he been watching him? And now he knows Eren was trying to look at him too!

“Well, that’s not too bad, huh?” Armin says with a forced smile that doesn’t quite reach his eyes.

“Do you want us to try to stage an ‘accident’?”

Mikasa slams an elbow into Jean’s ribs to shut him up. “What if someone overhears?” she huffs and glances around.

Thankfully, it appears no one does happen to hear their jokes about possibly trying to kill Levi. Not that they’re serious, anyways. Jean wouldn’t do that shit without checking he’s okay with it first.

Eren snorts and shrugs. “Who knows, maybe there isn’t a prenup and I’ll become a millionaire.”

“He’s a millionaire?” Connie hisses, eyes bugging out of his head.

“No,” Mikasa huffs, “he isn’t.” The Ackermans might be well-off, but not that well-off. Combined? They’d likely surpass that limit, but not individually.

“Life insurance would bump it up quite a bit,” Eren says with a chuckle, getting Jean to finally crack a smile. Good, he doesn’t like the tension. He doesn’t want his friends to resent Levi, especially if he’s living with the alpha. He can’t stand the thought of them not visiting because they despise his new mate. “Also, you guys bet your asses you’re helping with moving.”

“Of course we will!” Historia chirrups with a smile. “But let’s just focus on today, yeah? How are you getting to the reception?”

The question has Eren sighing as he shuffles and winces, ow, he needs to get these dang shoes off. “I’m supposed to go with my new mate…”

“Are you sure?” Jean asks, quirking a singular eyebrow. “We can kidnap you for an hour or so.”

Eren chuckles but brushes off his concern as he says, “No, I should, uh… get to know him a bit.”

“You’ll be fine,” Mikasa reassures, putting on a smile despite the way Eren’s ears remain flat against his head. “Levi’s a blunt bastard, but he isn’t nasty.”

Yeah, so he’s heard. Brutally honest, not a sweet talker, a blunt bastard, but no one has anything bad to say about him. Eren turns and checks on his mate, watching the man in the middle of a conversation with Erwin and Hange, his mother off to the side. The woman catches Eren’s eye, smiling and waving him over. Damn, he was trying to be sneaky, but he can’t brush off the silent invitation without being rude.

“I’ll see you guys there, yeah?” he says, giving a smile and wave before approaching Levi’s group.

As he gets closer, none of them seem to notice his presence, too busy chatting to one another. Eren gets the chance to observe them, the way Levi doesn’t smile or laugh like the other two but they seem very fond of him, judging by the way Hange bumps against his side and says something sly-sounding while Erwin chuckles along. Maybe he just isn’t a very smiley kind of person, not that he hates Eren or anything.

Once in earshot, he hears Erwin say, “Check for allergies first; that’s more important than preferences.”

“Food is food, as long as it doesn’t kill him or make him throw up, it’ll be fine,” Levi states.

Eren pauses, furrowing his brow. Obviously they’re talking about him. Who else could it be? But the lack of care in those words feels… insulting, almost.

He doesn’t see when the woman who looks a lot like Levi steps over to him. “Don’t take it personally,” she says, voice hushed, “he was never picky about food when he was little, didn’t have a choice, really.”

Ah, right, they weren’t always well off…

When the others continue their conversation, Eren turns towards the omega to ask, “Was it your idea? For the arranged mating?”

She hums and smiles softly when she admits, “Yes, partially. Levi doesn’t exactly seek out anyone to mate, so when Mikasa mentioned you off-handedly, I thought it might be a good opportunity. Your parents seemed keen too. Two birds, one stone.” Then, seeming to realise, she holds a hand out and says, “Sorry, I’m Kuchel, I’m Levi’s mother.”

Eren takes her hand and shakes it. Well, at least he knows his mother-in-law’s name now. “I just hope he’s a decent mate,” Eren says, looking back at the man he still doesn’t really know.

“Oh, he’ll be fine, he just needs some time to warm up to you. Levi’s a very protective alpha, guaranteed. You’re honestly lucky to have him! He won’t let anything bad happen to you.”

He hums in response, continuing to stare at Levi. Should he be more grateful…?

As if sensing his staring, the man turns, catches Eren’s gaze, looks at Kuchel, and approaches.

With every step the alpha takes closer, Eren tenses up, swallowing and struggling to figure out what words to say, tongue like cotton, thick and fluffy.

Once close enough, he finally opens his mouth, but all that comes out is an uncertain, “Hey…”

Levi comes to a halt in front of him, eyes narrowing slightly. “Is that how you greet your mate?”

Eren gapes.

However, before he can figure out if he should be embarrassed or offended, Kuchel chuckles from beside him. “Oh, be nice, Levi, what’s he supposed to do? Leap into your arms and kiss you?”

Eren winces. With a stranger? Uh, no thanks. It was humiliating enough to be mated by this guy in front of his family and friends, but to act all lovey-dovey without even knowing him? No thanks!

He’s not the only one who thinks that apparently, judging by the way Levi grimaces and says, “Please don’t have more than two drinks at the reception. Speaking of…” Eren stiffens up when the alpha focuses on him again. “Are you ready to go?”

Eren takes a second to think before nodding. “Yeah, I’m ready,” he says, looking around at the rest of the guests before turning to walk along the carpet back towards the car park.

Before he can get too far, an arm loops through his, elbows hooking. The omega blinks, ears twitching, but Levi doesn’t look at him, instead addressing their friends and family as he says, “You all should make your way to the reception venue now.” He takes one step forward before pausing to tack on, “And an open bar does not mean get shitfaced.”

The last sentence seems to be addressed to a man Eren is unfamiliar with, the guy shrugging and grinning in a way that definitely means he will be drinking a lot.

The response has Levi letting slip a small tsk as he continues down the carpet, leading Eren along with him.

The omega blinks down at where they’re joined, arms hooked together, as if this was a real, proper mating between lovers and not one arranged out of convenience and benefit for all except them.

But… he’s trying, at least. He’s trying to make it real, to put Eren at ease, to show that this isn’t a cold, heartless mating.

He refuses to be bitten and tossed aside, never acknowledged again aside from for show purposes.

Eren hesitates for only a moment before leaning towards Levi and scrubbing his cheek against the alpha’s shoulder, effectively scenting it. There’s no denying it’s Eren clinging to his suit. If he has to have this man’s bite mark embedded upon his neck, then the least he can do is carry around Eren’s scent.

When he withdraws, Levi’s gaze remains upon him, glancing down at where he had put his aroma, sniffing ever so slightly as if to check it’s there. Eren’s jaw tenses, prepared for some kind of reprimand.

Instead, Levi looks forward again and, voice low, says, “I don’t want your affection if you’re forcing yourself to do it.”

Oh. Well. That’s… sweet? Rude? Both? He’s almost insulted but beneath the sharp words is a hidden, softer meaning that he almost misses. He doesn’t want Eren making himself uncomfortable…

“I’m not forcing it,” he says. Levi turns to look at him, scanning across his face, probably searching for any signs or hints that he’s lying, but he isn’t. Eren keeps his voice low as he explains, “I hate the idea of being mated to someone who wants nothing to do with me, and I thought that’s what this would be, but… I appreciate that you’re trying.”

The alpha snorts as they begin climbing the steps up to where their cars are parked. “I doubt anyone enjoys the idea of their mate refusing to talk to let alone look at them. As shit as this situation is, I don’t plan on making it torture for either of us.”

The sigh Eren releases is filled with relief, eyes closing for a moment. Okay, well, that’s good, at least. Maybe he can just think of this as… hardcore dating. As in, they’re already technically mated and moving in together, but there’s still so much to learn about Levi.

And vice versa, he supposes.

Eren might as well get a jump start now on figuring out what kind of person he’s married to.

At the top of the stairs, Eren sidesteps a beach-goer and asks, “Favourite movie?”

“Human Centipede.” Eren stops in place. He stares. What kind of psychopath—?! Levi turns, holds his gaze, and deadpans, “It’s a masterpiece of art.”

“You’re fucking with me.” He’s answered by a snort. Then, more confidently, Eren says, “You ass, you’re fucking with me!” He doesn’t receive a reply, but considering he’s related to Mikasa, yeah, he’s messing with him, has to be.

Walking down the path towards where Mike parked, he questions, “Favourite colour?”

After looking over at Eren, seeming to be in thought, the alpha says, “Green. Like an emerald.”

“What do you do?” the omega then asks. Well, it’s a silly question, one he thinks Mikasa might have told him the answer to at some point in the past, but he wants to maybe at least try to engage in conversation.

“Military,” he explains. “I was a rebellious teen, and got enlisted to ‘straighten me out’. Now I’m a high ranking officer. I’m away frequently, which is why I wasn’t interested in a mate before, but maybe that’ll suit you just fine, since I won’t be home often.”

Oh… Eren’s brow furrows as he takes that in. His alpha is in the military? Meaning he’ll be away on deployment, gone for months at a time, maybe a full year. Which will be fine, right? It’s not like it’s a true mating. It’ll be no different to his normal everyday life.

But the thought of his mate being gone for a year, leaving him alone throughout it, has his throat tightening up, eyes hot. He got bitten and went through all this only to be left at home on his own?!

“No, it doesn’t suit me because why the hell would anyone think it’s a good idea for you to get mated?” Eren asks with a huff, words choked up as he glares at the ground, coming to a halt. Levi turns to face him, sighing. “I have this stupid bite mark of yours and now my heats will be even worse and the one person who could make it better won’t even be there!”

When he exhales, a whine clings to his throat, but he forces it aside, growling instead. What the fuck!

Then, voice quiet, Levi asks, “Do you want me to help with your heats? You’ll be having one tonight because of the bite…”

Eren blinks at the offer, lifting his head up to see the alpha peering at him, head tilting the slightest. He’s serious? Well… he wasn’t lying that his heats would be worse now that he’s mated.

“I mean, yeah, it’d definitely help,” Eren says, shuffling slightly, ow, his feet! Hopefully his parents or friends give him his change of clothes and shoes soon.

Levi, satisfied by that answer, retakes Eren’s arm and continues leading him down the pathway, mindful to not pull or hold too tight, just a casual nudge. “Then that’s fine. We don’t want to be late to the reception or we won’t be able to enjoy it fully.” He doesn’t show any signs of nervousness or anxiety, moving with another goal in sight, not worrying himself over heats or being separated from his new mate.

Eren is almost jealous… No, he is envious!

Mike greets them with a small nod and smile, visibly peering at the bite upon Eren’s neck and saying, “Congratulations.” He doesn’t respond, watching as Levi opens the door for him. Oh, his change of clothes and shoes are already here! Thank fuck.

Eren shuffles the fabrics of his dress inside and picks up the box containing shoes that actually fit instead of cutting into him. He sighs in relief once he gets these uncomfortable ass ones off, dropping them to the floor as Levi sits beside him.

He reaches behind himself for the zip, fumbling, trying to reach over his head and avoiding the veil, dammit, augh!

Eren tries another three times, all the while fighting against Mike’s driving, until he falls against Levi, the alpha grabbing hold of him. His brow furrows, twitching slightly, the first sign of hesitance Eren has seen from him all day. So he does have emotions…

Turning his back, Eren says, “Can you unzip it?”

He doesn’t receive a reply, the alpha’s fingers pinching hold of the zipper and dragging it down all the way to his tail, briefly brushing against the soft fur.

Eren doesn’t look back, doesn’t want to know if the alpha’s eyes are on him, until he hears a growl of, “If you look, I’m gouging your eyes out.” The omega startles, blinking, and turns to spot Levi glaring at his driver. Mike quickly turns the rear view mirror away.

Well, at least someone who isn’t his mate won’t be watching him undress.

Eren squirms in his seat, struggling to push the delicate fabrics off himself, only to pause when it catches. One of the hooks from the back has decided to latch onto his underwear. Every time he tries to pull it off, it threatens to undress him completely.

There’s a big difference between changing and getting completely undressed, new mate be damned.

“Uhm… Levi…?”

“What?”

Eren turns away from him again, struggling to look over his shoulder. “It’s stuck.” The alpha turns towards him, pausing, gaze shifting across Eren’s exposed backside to see where it’s caught. He doesn’t move. Eren tries to reach behind himself, but it’s hard to see where his fingers are. “Can you unstuck it?”

Levi doesn’t answer but he moves closer, setting one hand against Eren’s skin, thumb holding onto the fabric his dress is caught upon. The brunette holds still, frozen in place, until the hook is removed, fabrics loosening, allowing him to remove his dress.

“Thank you…”

Eren turns away, hiding himself from view as much as he can as he swaps his dress for the shorter, less-suffocating one. It slips over his head comfortably, looping around his neck to stay up. He smooths down the layers, making sure they sit properly.

Something tugs from behind. His head snaps around, but Levi merely unfurls some of the fabric so it sits nicer. He meets Eren’s gaze and looks away.

At least he’s being considerate.

Eren filters through the bag, searching, before he hears the clink of gold jewellery. He pulls out the decorative garter and hums, taking a moment to untangle and hold it up. He thought it would look nice poking out from under his dress. As he slides it into place, pushing it up high around his thigh, yeah, it certainly looks rather nice.

And judging by the way Levi is not-so-subtly looking over at it, his alpha must be appreciative.

The shoes don’t cut into his feet when he puts weight on them, sighing in relief as he shuffles his dress away. This reception is going to be much easier.

Thankfully, the venue for their reception isn’t too far away; they pull into the parking lot as Eren finishes packing away his previous outfit, double checking he has everything.

Mike opens the door for him. How courteous, even though Levi is his boss, not Eren. He gives the man a faint smile as he steps out, once again fussing with his clothes, only to pause when his mate arrives beside him and says, “You look fine.”

“Just ‘fine’?” he teases.

“Beautiful.” Levi doesn’t look at him, simply turns away and begins leading a blushing Eren towards the entrance of the botanical garden.

He had to pick this place the moment he saw it; stunning plants and flowers all around. And with the undercover area for guests to sit and eat and dance? Fairy lights and vines hang from overhead, brushing past Eren’s head as he looks upwards in awe. Pretty…

Levi, he discovers, is a gentleman with actions, not words; the man pulls Eren’s chair out and seats him as their friends and family make their way inside as well, a couple beelining towards the open bar.

The moment one of the waiters circle around to ask what drink they want, Eren has to think, contemplating a cocktail, before he figures wine would make sense and orders a glass of red.

He glances at Levi as the alpha orders something stronger, some kind of scotch? Whiskey? He’s not sure, but it’s on the rocks.

Before any of their orders for meals can be taken, Eren notices his friends approaching, bags in hand as they put on a smile—very blatantly avoiding looking at Levi as they bring their presents.

“We got you some gifts!” Connie announces.

“I’d hope so, considering that was on the invite.” Jean immediately glares at Levi, huffing softly. Eren can smell his scent thickening in the air like he’s trying to square off against the other wolf. His mate merely meets his stare then looks at the bag he holds. “So what did you get? A welcome mat or a toilet brush?”

Eren sees the way his friend moves, turning more towards Levi, knows shit is about to go down.

Until Mikasa sighs and gets between them. “You’re as good at jokes as you are at making friends.”

Thankfully, Levi merely huffs at her sarcasm, no doubt used to it from his relative. His friend, however, continues bristling, hairs standing on end.

“Jean,” Eren hisses, voice low. Sasha looks over and quickly turns away upon seeing the frown upon the omega’s face. Jean finally tears his heated glare from Levi and pulls a face at Eren. “That’s enough, not here, not today.”

Jean considers it for a moment, eyes briefly flickering to the newly mated alpha, before his brow pinches and he sighs. “Yeah, whatever.” He holds out the bag in his hand and says, “Congratulations.” But when Eren tries to accept, the bag is set down and Jean departs, back turned. Well… fine then.

Connie snorts. “It’s just ‘cause he’s worried about you,” he explains with a smile. “Doesn’t want you to be taken away by some strange alpha and all that.”

Which he’s grateful for. Jean is a good friend, he’s concerned for Eren and showing it in his own way.

The waiter returns and sets two drinks on the table between Levi and Eren, oblivious to the tension.

“I’ll be fine,” Eren says confidently. This alpha doesn’t seem too bad and a lot of people talk him up quite a bit. Besides, he knows his friends will help if things get tense. But Jean… “Can you check on him? Make sure he isn’t trashing the bathroom, y’know?”

Connie nods and, after passing Eren his own gift and giving congratulations, disappears to chase after Jean. Hopefully he’s alright and comes around soon. It’s not like he can make this bite mark go away.

Having all his friends filter up to the head table, greeting him and bringing gifts, it has a smile spreading across the omega’s face. He can’t hide the way his tail wiggles when they manage to make him laugh. He keeps the gifts collected beside him, wants to open them when he gets home as a little surprise!

Well… at Levi’s home. It’ll be his new home.

Eren sips at his wine—not his favourite, but still decent—until another waiter approaches and asks, “Which of the three options would you like to order?”

Right, food, food… Eren hums as he eyes the options upon his menu. Three for entrée and three for main course. No dessert; that’ll be the wedding cake.

“Oysters to start aaaand… spicy pad thai,” he decides. The waiter nods and takes his menu before turning towards Levi.

The alpha takes a second, thinking about what to pick, before saying, “I’ll get the oysters too and the ribeye. And another one of these.” He holds his nearly empty drink up. “I’ll need it to get through this…”

A presence appears beside him; he can sense it before he sees Hange’s unsettlingly wide grin. “Did you know, oysters are believed to be an aphrodisiac.”

Oh. Eren feels his cheeks flush red. That’s not why he picked it though! He just wanted some!

“Go order your own oysters then,” Levi tells them, specifically not looking at Eren. “Faster we eat and cut the cake, the faster we can go home.”

Is that all he wants to do? Just get this over and done with so they can go home? And, what, ignore each other? But he mentioned helping with his heat…

After their friends and family retreat to their assigned seats to order their own meals, Eren shuffles in his seat and smooths down the fabric of his dress. When he glances at Levi, the alpha isn’t even looking at him, not even looking at anything, just… away.

Head down, Eren keeps his voice low so no one else hears and asks, “Do you even want any of this?” His mate perks a little, humming and turning towards him, waiting for elaboration. “We don’t know each other. Did you even want a mate?”

“Eventually.” …Huh? “I had no interest, no drive, and I work a lot. I thought maybe I would find someone at base that matched but it never happened.”

“Are you angry?”

Levi’s brow raises. “About?”

“Being mated to me.”

The alpha immediately straightens up and states firmly, “No. I’m annoyed that we were put in this situation and that you obviously aren’t pleased, but you’re my mate now and I intend to treat you as such.”

“You’re going to treat me like your actual mate?” Eren clarifies. When Levi nods, he feels something moving inside his stomach, can’t tell if it’s a heavy stone or a fluttering. “So… So you’ll do mate things? Like PDA and all that?”

The look he receives for such a question is hard to decipher, the alpha’s brow drawn together. “You’re asking if I’m going to suddenly start kissing you and holding your hand?” Eren gapes, skin flushing bright pink. “I don’t rush into things. Let’s test the waters first.”

Okay, well, that’s reasonable, he supposes. Eren himself doesn’t exactly feel… great about the idea of being lovey-dovey with a stranger right off the bat. Does that mean Levi will do it with someone else?

“And what about if you need something?”

“Such as?”

“As help with your rut. What if you need someone to help you but I don’t want to help?”

Levi snorts, looking away from him again. “Then I will deal with it myself. I’m not going to go find someone else or force you to help. You are my mate.”

Oh… Even though they aren’t together, he’s still faithful? Would rather put himself through the discomfort of enduring his rut alone than the possibility of cheating on a mate that isn’t truly his mate? That’s…

“Thank you,” he says, toying with his wine glass a couple times. “Even though you don’t care about me like a true mate, I appreciate the loyalty.”

“The same extends to you as well.” The plain tone to Levi’s words has Eren looking over at the man, only to see an intimidating sharpness within his gaze. The omega swallows. “If there ever comes a time you want another, then break this off.” Ah, well, okay— “I don’t like sharing, even if you’re only mine on paper.”

Eren says nothing, sipping at his wine.

It… makes sense for an alpha to not want to share their mate, but there’s nothing between them except legalities and a bite mark. Levi has no claim over what he does. It’s not uncommon for those in arranged marriages to have a paramour, but would he?

Eren snorts at the possibility. No way! If his new mate won’t get another partner while they’re mated, then he can do the same too. He won’t be bested by Levi, even if he is his new alpha.

Before he can ponder too much longer, the waiter returns, two plates of oysters in his hand. “Enjoy,” the beta says, smiling as he sets them down.

Eren gives his thanks, grateful to at least have some kind of buffer so he doesn’t have to maintain conversation with this man he knows next to nothing about. He’s even more grateful that Levi doesn’t try to engage him either, squeezing a lemon over his entrée.

At least he knows Levi isn’t ignoring him, he’s just… being respectful. Eren wasn’t exactly the friendliest right off the bat and he still isn’t one hundred percent pleased with this whole situation, but at least his new mate isn’t pretending to be super affectionate. The fakeness of it would immediately put him off.

For now, Eren eats his two oysters and does not think about Hange saying they’re an aphrodisiac.

After he’s swallowed down the slimy, salty meal, Eren checks on his family and friends. Grisha and Carla seem deep in conversation with Levi’s mother and an alpha he isn’t familiar with but can only assume is Levi’s father or maybe uncle. They smile and glance over at the newly mated couple, waving slightly.

Their friends sit at their own tables in their separate groups, chatting to each other. He can’t see Jean or Connie, can only assume they’re talking somewhere, hopefully calming Jean down.

Well… now they have to wait for their meals.

Instead of sitting in the peculiar silence, Eren turns to Levi and stares. The alpha takes only two seconds to realise he’s being watched, head raising to look at the omega. “What.”

“What do you do at home?” Levi’s eyebrows draw together, creasing his brow as his mouth pulls slightly to the side. “Like… hobbies. Jogging? Movies?”

“I work out, read, and drink tea,” he says as if memorised. “My mother wanted me to perform a song on the piano for you but that’s mortifying and stupid.”

Eren nods along, humming. Okay, he’s athletic, makes sense, he’s in the military. Reading? Nice and relaxing. Drinking tea as a hobby…? Well, better than a coffee addiction. But he can play piano?!

Poking at his oyster shells, Eren says, “I’d like to hear you play.”

When silence follows his words, the omega almost thinks he’s upset Levi, that the man is likely frustrated that Eren is trying to force him to do something he already said he thinks is stupid.

But then he hears, “Not now; later. When they’re drunk and less likely to remember.”

Yeah, that’d be nice. Maybe then they won’t tease Eren when he fails and falls on his face during his First Dance. He’ll delete any pictures they take.

“So you finally settled down, huh?”

Eren straightens up at the unfamiliar voice, blinking at the man as he drapes an arm around a tense Levi, grinning, drink in his other hand.

A low growl rumbles from his mate as he mutters, “Get lost, Kenny. You’re lucky Ma invited you.”

So he wasn’t even invited? He was just a plus one. And he’s acting like this? Eren scrunches his nose. He can smell more than one or two drinks on the man. No wonder Levi told him to not get shit-faced…

“Aww, c’mon, my li’l runt nephew’s all grown up now, lemme have my fun, yeah?” he chuckles.

Nephew, alright, so this is Uncle Kenny. But judging by the twitch of Levi’s lip, curling upwards to bare a fang at the man, visibly restraining himself, this particular Ackerman is not welcome.

“Have you ordered your meal yet?” Eren pointedly asks. “You should order so you don’t starve.”

Instead, however, the man redirects his attention to the bride, stepping away from Levi to smile unnervingly at the omega. “Well, aren’t you a lucky catch, ey? If Mikasa hadn’t kept you hidden—”

The man cuts himself off abruptly, gaze sharpening as he slowly turns towards Levi. Eren spots his alpha’s hand squeezing painfully tight at Kenny’s arm, knuckles white. Levi’s voice remains low when he says with a growl, “Go sit down and eat, you alcoholic.”

Eren hopes for this to be over and done with, would rather not have all the fighting and drama. Can’t this Kenny guy just go away and leave them be?

The alpha snorts and yanks his arm free. “As I was sayin’ ,” he begins, glaring at Levi before turning to smile at Eren. The omega’s stomach twists at the unwanted attention. “Levi’s lucky to be yer alpha.” Okay? Still don’t like this. “If ‘kasa hadn’t been selfish and kept ya hidden, maybe I would’ve taken ya mys—”

Eren lips pull back into a grimace at the same time Kenny finds himself dragged backwards. He blinks and the alpha is on the floor, holding his glass aloft to avoid spilling a single drop. His mate looms overhead, ears standing tall within sleek black hair, hands clenching into fists and then flexing like he can’t decide whether to punch or claw his face to shreds.

Levi makes a move forward, ready to pounce, only for Eren to quickly grab hold of his elbow. “Wait!” The alpha pauses, looking back at him with a frown. “Please, not here.” He doesn’t want to make a scene…

Until Kenny chuckles and mutters as he stands up, “Yeah, be a good mate and listen to your omega.”

This time, it’s Eren who takes the opportunity to kick the unsuspecting alpha right in the balls. Fucker…!

Kenny groans as he stumbles away, clutching at his groin. Eren hears the gasps from around, a low, “Eren,” from his mother. What? He was being a creep!

The alpha growls when he stands up, still slightly hunched over, glaring at Eren. “You li’l shit—”

“Kenny!” Eren startles at the sharp hiss from nearby, blinking as Kuchel storms closer, and oh man, that’s a pissed off mother if he’s ever seen one. “I gave you one chance to come and be a decent person, and this is what you do?!” Levi shuffles him backwards as the woman leans over and grabs hold of Kenny’s ear, nails digging in as she yanks and literally drags him off.

Eren watches with unmasked satisfaction as the drunken alpha is verbally berated, the omega growling about him ruining her son’s wedding. Get fukt.

Levi shifts closer to him, turning away from their nearby friends and families. Eren almost expects to be berated for hurting his family member, but the look within the alpha’s eyes is certainly not one of agitation.

“You should do that again when he visits,” Levi says with a rumble, almost a growl, but not quite. Oh.

Eren’s concerns about being too much, that he’s not enough of a ‘typical omega’, are completely thrown out the door. A grin slowly spreads across his face as he nods and guarantees, “I definitely will.”

When he glances over at his parents, they look on with blatantly disapproving frowns upon their faces. Whatever, it’s not them he’s getting married to and his new mate isn’t opposed to standing up for himself. They can suck it up. It’s his day today and he won’t let some drunkard alpha say crude shit, family or not.

A presence hovers nearby. Levi senses it first, peering behind Eren and gently guiding the omega back towards him, an arm around his waist. It has a pink tinge staining his cheeks as he looks at the waiter.

“Uhh, would you like your meal now or… should we escort that man out?” Ah, he saw all that? Damn.

“He’s just my asshole uncle,” Levi mutters, minimising, but the way he peers at Eren’s face and arches a single brow is like he’s waiting for his answer.

He could kick Kenny out, he’s being such a pest, and also those comments earlier weren’t exactly his favourite thing of the evening. But, for now, he huffs and says, “Fine, he can stay… but only if he behaves.” The waiter nods, looking over at the man in question to see him being dragged away from the bar by a pissed off Kuchel. “If he starts acting up again, you can threaten to kick him out.” Only one chance left…

“Of course, I’ll go get your mains ready and refill your drinks,” the beta says with a respectful bow of his head as he departs.

That leaves Eren to be nudged back towards his chair as Levi says, “I didn’t want him here, but my mother wanted him to be involved in my life more.” Well, he can understand that and certainly doesn’t blame Levi for his family’s actions.

“Still not as bad as my half-brother,” Eren huffs.

Levi raises an eyebrow as his drink is replaced with a fresh, full one. “Ah? Why isn’t he here?”

The omega chuckles as he remembers his brother’s response to finding out who Eren is to wed.

“He hates your guts.” Which mustn’t be the answer Levi was expecting, judging by the way the man frowns and glances over at his family’s table. Eren hums and taps at his wine glass. “Something about rivalry, that I shouldn’t marry you, I deserve better, you’re too old for me, I’ll never have a proper family with you. I figured he was being a protective brother.”

“What’s your brother’s name again…?”

Eren quirks an eyebrow. “Zeke?”

Immediately Levi sighs and closes his eyes, leaning back in his chair with folded arms. “Of course it’s fuckin’ pissbeard. I didn’t even connect the dots with the last names. No surprise he didn’t show up.”

Ah. Well. That’s great, even more family drama.

Before Eren can question what exactly happened between the two to cause such ire, the waiter returns with two plates in hand, removing their entrées and replacing them with their mains. “Here we are, please enjoy your meals!” he announces.

Eren gives his thanks, scooting closer to admire his spicy pad thai. It looks delicious, smells even moreso!

Fork in hand, he leans forward as he scoops up some noodles and egg and carefully puts it in his mouth—don’t want to get any on his dress! It certainly tastes delicious, sweet but spicy. At least he gets a good meal out of this…

But he can’t just forget what Levi told him.

“So… why exactly does he hate you?” Eren asks, sipping at his wine and eating some more.

“He’s part of the reason why our packs are uniting to avoid any future troubles, since he’s the reason your family was reported for attempted murder.”

Eren chokes on his next mouthful, coughing as he struggles to not spit it out, swallowing a couple times and drinking more wine. “I’m sorry—WHAT?!”

Levi slowly raises an eyebrow. “You didn’t know? Your brother isn’t the biggest fan of me and decided that trying to get rid of me would be the best option. Didn’t exactly work, as you can tell.”

“But WHY?!”

Eren ducks his head as his friends and family shoot him a look, wondering what all the commotion is about. Hopefully Jean doesn’t try to interfere…

Levi doesn’t care for their stares. “Not quite sure,” he admits, cutting into his meat. “He knew me through Mikasa, that much I’m certain. Why did he want me dead? Well, he said I’m a rich knothead and he’d cut my dick off if I went anywhere near you.”

Eren blinks. Oh. Well… it’s because of him? Mmm, makes sense why he didn’t want to show up at the wedding then… Probably for the best, too.

“I’m sorry about him, I didn’t realise,” Eren says as he turns his head away. Dammit, Zeke!

“Maybe I should be grateful,” Levi contemplates idly. He sips at his drink and looks over at Eren. Some kind of… seriousness sits in there, hard to decipher, but it’s there! “Now our packs are united and there’s no further problems between them. My mother can finally stop stressing about my lack of a mate.”

Ah, that’s familiar. “My mother too…” Eren mumbles. And when he looks over, he can see her chatting to Kuchel with a smile on her face. “She’s probably real happy I’m finally mated now too, kept bugging me about it, that I should let some alpha court me. She even suggested I try dating Jean.”

“Is Jean angsty and broody over there?” Levi asks, jutting his head towards Eren’s friends table. Sure enough, there Jean is, poking at his food while the rest of the group happily dig in. Probably sulking about Eren telling him off earlier.

“Yeah… He’s a great friend, really! He just doesn’t know you and got protective.” Eren snorts. “You damn alphas…” Here’s to hoping Levi isn’t the controlling kind who doesn’t let him hang out with his friends because they’re alphas.

Before he can question, a loud clinking noise fills the area. Everyone falls silent, turning towards Grisha as the man stands up, glass in hand. Oh no, not a toast, don’t embarrass him like this…!

His dad stands and looks around, smiling. “I, uh, thank you all for coming. I mean, none of us really expected this day to come, especially not so soon! Well, Eren never really talked about having a big, extravagant wedding or anything when he was a pup.”

He gets a few chuckles at least, mostly out of pity. Eren slouches down in his seat, poking at his food and turning his head away. Dammit, Dad, stooop!

“I really do think this is a good union. We were a bit blind-sided when Eren presented as an omega, not as much as he was—took him two weeks before he finally went back to school!”

Cheeks red, Eren stares at Grisha. Mum would’ve done a better speech! This isn’t fair!

Worst part is, Dad is trying his best. He actually looks genuinely happy when he stares at his son. “I’m still never forgetting how many times he would come home covered in bruises and scratches because he could never back down from a fight. But tonight is a night of firsts; first mating, first marriage, and maybe some more firsts later on—” Eren’s face burns—stop it!

Eren grabs hold of Levi’s sleeve, noting the way the alpha turns towards him as the omega leans in to hiss, “Don’t listen to him, he’s had too much to drink.”

“He’s only had two.”

Dang it. “He can’t handle his liquor,” Eren excuses. “Just ignore whatever he says.”

“I’m sure if Zeke was here he’d be happy to see his little brother finally settling down.” Now really isn’t the time to bring up Zeke, especially considering he influenced what happened! Grisha, obviously not picking up on how embarrassed his son is, continues his little speech. “Carla and I figured we wouldn’t have any grandkids until we’re in a retirement home!”

“Daaaaaad!” Eren finally says, covering his bright red face as he shakes his head. He hears a couple little chuckles from Grisha and the Ackermans, the latter likely doing it out of politeness. No one would actually find this funny, right?!

An arm nudges against his side. “Do they really expect that?” Huh? What? At his confused expression, Levi clarifies, “Do they expect pups from us?”

Eren could give a few answers in response. He could tell him what his parents expect from them, pups and whatnot. He could tell Levi about whether or not he wants pups, which should be the most important opinion to consider. But they’re things he already knows. What he really wants to know is…

“Do YOU want pups?”

The alpha’s brow lowers at that. Eren almost thinks he’s annoyed him, but then Levi looks down at his plate of food quietly, eyes thoughtful.

“I never thought I would have the chance or the time to find a mate and have my own little pack,” he says, voice surprisingly honest. Eren blinks and nods slowly, ears perked and listening with keen interest. The alpha cuts another piece of his steak, but before he pops it in his mouth, says, “A brat or two doesn’t sound half-bad, but I’m no expert regarding that shit.”

Okay, well, that’s a good response, right? He doesn’t expect or seem eager to demand pups from Eren, he’s simply… open to the idea. He’s considering it thoughtfully and not impulsively.

Eren glances over at Grisha, noting his dad has since finished his embarrassing little speech. Well, that’s good at least. But, uh, well…

Scooping up another bite of his meal, he admits, “I’d like pups some day.” Can’t elaborate with food in his mouth! That’s impolite, especially at his own reception.

Except Levi doesn’t drop the topic. “Some day?” he repeats. Eren hums and nods. “So you’re either uncertain if you’re truly ready for pups or you actually do want them but you’re procrastinating and putting it off for some reason.”

Eren chokes.

He quickly clears his throat and pats at his chest a couple times, whining and taking a sip of his wine.

“I didn’t want to have pups on my own and even if I’m mated now, I just—I don’t know you!” Eren explains. “Am I supposed to just… trust that some stranger will take care of me and my pups?”

“No, but I will.” Huh? Levi doesn’t look at him when he says, “I’ll take care of you. And however many pups you want.”

O h.

Eren stares at his plate of food, feeling like something flipped inside of his stomach and made it lighter. His face somehow manages to get even redder—even after dad’s embarrassing speech!

And when he opens his mouth, nothing comes out except a little breathy whine. Augh…!

Lifting his head, Eren stares at Levi, swallowing and tugging at his dress, pulling it down, but the little gold garter sticks out from beneath the soft fabric. It takes the alpha a second before he notices he’s being watched, pausing in his eating to say, “I’m not lying.”

That doesn’t help!

Eren turns his head down to his food instead, managing to take a few more bites before calling that enough and setting his cutlery down. He drinks more of his wine, finishing his second glass and setting it aside.

He still feels flushed! Is he blushing still? But Levi just said he would happily take care of him and his pups if he were to have any. That’s… He doesn’t know anything that could be more romantic…

Before he can dwell anymore on it, the music disappears. Eren groans preemptively, already prepared for another speech, either from Carla or his friends, but instead, Kuchel is the one that stands and quickly hurries over to them, smiling like it’s the best day in her life.

“It’s dance time,” she says, patting at Levi’s shoulder and looking at Eren. “You know how to slow dance at least, right?”

“I, uh, well, I guess?” It’s easy, right? Just hold hands, take small steps, and don’t tread on each other.

So when the alpha reaches out to take his hand, Eren lets him, finding himself being led around the table and towards the middle of the room. What’s worse is that everyone is looking at them. Please don’t mess up…

Levi turns him with a small pull, arm easily going towards Eren’s waist, firm, calloused hands surprisingly gentle as the alpha peers at his face. He… doesn’t recognise the song at all, but it’s soft, a gentle voice singing, and Levi holds his stare with such intensity as he takes small little steps, waiting for his new mate to match him.

He can feel eyes around them, lingering on them, constantly watching. Maybe Eren should feel slightly more embarrassed having his friends and family nearby as he slow dances with a stranger—with an alpha that is now his mate. But… things are going well, it seems.

So when a smile inches upon his face, Eren doesn’t fight it, letting it spread across his mouth.

And while Levi himself doesn’t smile in return, it’s in his eyes that Eren can see the alpha is enjoying himself. Instead of that sharpness to his gaze, it holds a surprising warmth that draws out a pleased little purr.

Sure, he never had formal dance lessons, but it’s easy enough when they just have to move in sync. One-two-three, one-two-three, don’t step on Levi’s shoes, don’t trip over…

He’s so far lost in the movement that he barely registers when the man moves in closer, leaning towards Eren’s neck as his nose brushes along the smooth surface. It has him squeaking in surprise, startled as Levi inhales, breathing in his scent.

He twitches, warm breath seeping out over his bare skin, right over his newly-formed mating bite. It feels… weird. Not in a bad way, just strange, foreign.

Inhaling slowly, Eren turns his head. He swears Levi’s scent has grown more… more. He doesn’t know how else to describe it when he sniffs a little more, humming when the alpha intentionally rubs his scent across his neck and shoulder, covering him, a subtle claim that Eren finds he… doesn’t even mind.

It’s even better when he returns the affectionate scenting. If he has his new mate’s scent on him, then Levi will have his in return. The alpha hums, puffs some air, and tightens his grip around Eren’s waist.

“You smell… Your scent is different.” Huh? What does that mean? As if detecting his question, Levi continues to say, “It’s stronger, sweeter…”

“Yeah, ‘case you bit me,” he answers. “You know, our scents for each other are different now.” Then, voice quieter, he adds on, “And… my heat is coming.”

Levi hums, sniffing again right by his bitten scent gland and rubbing his scent onto an area beside it. There’s no doubt he’s taken, soaked in the alpha’s aroma, if the mating bite isn’t enough.

Eren tips his head, pulling back ever so slightly. Levi withdraws, brow furrowed. Oh, did he…? He must’ve thought he was trying to move away, but, no, he just… wanted to look at his face…

Cheeks flushed red, Eren pauses, staring.

“What?” Levi asks.

Before he can chicken out, Eren darts forward, quickly pressing his lips against the alpha’s and scrunching his eyes closed. He feels the way Levi tenses up, pausing in his slow dancing for the duration of the short-lived kiss before Eren retreats, blinking, trying to gauge his reaction.

Levi resumes moving, steps slow and steady. The surprised little look on his face fades as he turns his head to the side, pressing his cheek against Eren’s, thoroughly scenting him, only to startle when Levi kisses him again, firmer, deeper, oh shit—

It’s… nice. Not bad by far. There’s no romantic connection, no true intimacy to make it special, but it’s certainly enjoyable, at the very least.

For now, he can just pretend it’s only them, no prying eyes, no friends or family looking on and judging them. And that alone has Eren humming softly, eyes shut, simply revelling in the warmth of being held and kissed and scented, fuck…

His knees tremble. Eren tightens his grip on Levi’s shoulder, nails digging into the fine fabric as he inhales that deep alpha musk. The arm around his waist tightens, holding up more of his weight. And when their lips finally part, it’s with a gasp on Eren’s end, pupils blown wide as he stares, wide-eyed.

Levi’s brow dips down. “Your heat’s here.” Eren swallows, breathing faster. Shit, already? He thought it wouldn’t happen until tonight! Thankfully, his alpha smooths down his dress and says, “Just hold on a little bit longer, just until we cut the cake, then we can go.”

Eren hesitates. Can he make it through the rest of the reception? Well, it’s not horrible yet, at least, just slightly uncomfortable. He hasn’t started slicking…

“Okay, quickly,” Eren says, listening to the music swell. He hates that he has to rely on Levi’s hold to stop from swaying unintentionally, off balance and shaky-legged, but it’s better than falling on his ass.

No one seems to notice, or if they do, they don’t comment as the song comes to an end, clapping and whistling—thanks, Connie. Eren puts on a smile when he sees his parents have their phones out, taking pictures, getting a few snaps before Levi clears his throat and announces, “It’s time for the cake to be cut.”

Armin perks up. The blonde turns and hurries over to a small box set aside. Eren watches, brow dipping down as Levi helps lead him over to the fancy cake they had made last-minute for their guests.

His friend returns, box open to reveal an ornate knife inside, handle decorated with a fabric bow.

Eren stares at the cake, reading the sweet font covering the three tiers of it, Sun, Moon, Stars—

A deep flush spreads across Eren’s face, eyes wide as he stares at Levi, then the cake, then back again. The alpha meets his confused stare as he picks up the knife and says, “I didn’t decorate it.”

Well, either way, it’s… super sweet. And flattering. He wants to eat those damn strawberries! They look delicious and sugar always helps with heats.

Eren doesn’t even realise he’s being waited on until Levi takes his hand, staring down as he’s guided to hold the knife handle with Levi’s fingers encircling his, such rough calluses on his palms and fingers, but they’re so gentle when they hold him…

“To the newly mated pair!” Grisha announces, smiling as Kuchel circles around for a better view, taking a couple pictures. Eren tries to smile, but it’s hard when the fog of heat is slowly seeping in, flooding his mind. Thankfully, Levi is the one that guides him to cut the cake, revealing the different flavours inside; chocolate, vanilla, and a marble, ohhh~

“Just a small piece,” he says, words met by a confused hum. “I’m not that hungry.” Too much food will only make his stomach ache thanks to his heat, but he wants to have some! It looks and smells delicious.

Carla takes over cutting the cake once they have their own pieces, smiling and pulling Eren in close to hug the flushed omega. “So proud of you,” she says with a pleased purr, pulling away and gently nudging Eren back towards his table. Thankfully, Levi is right beside him, helping lead him over.

But the moment they sit down, before Eren can even take a single bite of his cake, Kuchel appears, holding her phone up and asking, “Can I get some pictures?”

Eren doesn’t see why not, it’s not every day one’s son gets mated, no? So Eren puts down his fork and scoots his chair closer to Levi, putting on a smile as he feels the alpha resting an arm around his waist. Kuchel seems more than happy to get a couple snaps.

Then the woman asks, “And one of you two feeding each other the cake?”

“Ah…” Eren turns his head slightly, checking Levi, but the alpha merely sighs and gives a faint nod of his head, agreeing to the request. “Sure?”

Fork in hand, Eren scoops up a small piece of cake with some creamy frosting. This is… going to be awkward, he figures, but might as well. It'll make his mother-in-law’s day.

He has to turn his body ever so slightly, shuffling and pausing when he sees a hand reaching out for him, tensing up. All Levi does is pull up the strap on his shoulder, fixing it. Eren hums. “Thank you.”

But when Kuchel tells them to go ahead, she’s ready, Eren hesitates, doesn’t know how to make this a cutesy photo for their families to have framed and remembered with. And judging by the way Levi pauses as well, he must be in the same boat.

Until Eren steels his nerves, moves forward… and puts icing on Levi’s cheek.

The alpha blinks, leaning backwards, staring at Eren. He almost looks offended, can’t see but can definitely feel the icing there. He almost laughs, only to startle when the man does the same back!

Eren blinks and touches his cheek, but it’s only a little bit, just a tiny smudge.

“Serves you right,” Levi says with a snort.

Finally, Eren lets out the surprised laugh that has been building up inside of him, shaking his head as he makes sure the icing is wiped clean from his cheek and snickering when Levi picks up a napkin to clean his own face.

Well, at least his new mate isn’t a hard ass, he figures; he might not laugh or smile—at least he hasn’t seen him laugh or smile—but he’s playful and doesn’t force Eren to ‘behave’ himself, as he was prepared for.

After checking that Kuchel was ready to take the proper picture, albeit with a smug smirk on her face, Eren feeds the forkful to his mate, trying to not snicker as Levi does the same in return. Levi pulls a face when a bit of icing manages to smudge his lips, but he still eats it. Even when Kuchel withdraws and thanks them for the pictures, the alpha seems content and pleased. Well, that wasn’t too embarrassing.

At least now they’re left alone, the rest of their friends and family sitting to eat their own slices of cake.

Eren hums and scoots closer to the table, fork in hand, but the moment he puts a bite of sweetness in his mouth, his stomach tightens. Lips twisting into a faint grimace, Eren shifts in his seat, thighs squeezing together, shuffling to alleviate tension. Damn heat…

He manages two more forkfuls of cake before his middle cramps again, twisting over itself as Eren lets slip a faint whine and shuffles again, struggling to keep his discomfort under control.

He must be doing a shit job, considering the way Levi leans towards him and asks, “Is it your heat?”

Cheeks stained red, Eren nods, unable to meet his mate’s stare.

“Do you want to leave now?” Ah, what? Eren’s brow furrows at the question. “We did all the usual mate shit; danced, ate, cut the cake, whatever. We can go now, if you want.”

Eren takes a moment to think, head down as he peers at his plate, then over at his friends and family. They all look to be enjoying themselves, chatting together and eating their own slices of cake. Well, most of the ceremony is finished, he supposes. There isn’t really much else to do except talk—something he really doesn’t want to do while experiencing such strong cramps.

“Yeah, uh, I think we should go,” Eren says, putting down his fork.

Levi stands with a nod, reaching over and offering a hand to Eren. He doesn’t take it at first, doesn’t want to appear like he needs help, but his head hurts and he ends up holding onto his alpha’s arm for support.

“Mike,” Levi says, loud enough that the room falls quiet aside from quiet murmuring. The blonde leaves his cake and approaches, but before he can ask what’s wrong, the man says, “Grab the wedding gifts and put it in the car, we’re leaving.”

Armin, ever the smarty-pants, leaves his seat to hurry closer and ask, “You’re leaving already?”

Eren gives a small nod, looking down. He’s probably disappointing them all by leaving early. “Yeah, sorry, I have to. Say goodbye to everyone for me?”

His friend pauses, glancing at Levi as he worries at his lower lip. “You can say goodbye to them yourself. You’re not leaving right now, right?”

“I can’t stay,” Eren says, a whine seeping through beneath his words. Then, voice quieter, he mutters, “My heat…” His midsection is already aching. He needs to be out of here before his symptoms get even worse.

“Oh.” Ah, there, he finally understands. Armin doesn’t meet his gaze as he looks around and fidgets with his sleeve. “I’ll come up with an excuse for you. Take care, yeah?”

Before he can reply, a sharp, “Levi,” comes from the right. Eren’s head snaps around, staring at a frowning Mikasa as she hurries closer, visibly sniffing at the air. She gives a small smile to him, but Levi receives a piercing glare. “You better treat him well. I don’t entrust my friends’ wellbeing to others often…”

Eren snorts but bites his tongue. Dammit Mikasa, being so overprotective… but he wants to see how Levi will respond. He side glances his mate, inspecting his face, but there isn’t a single hint of agitation coming from him.

“You say that like I’m a slave to my instincts.”

“Full moon tonight,” she notes, arms folded as she stands there, eyeing the other alpha off, ears pinned flat against her head. “See how you go.”

“It’s Ma that’s superstitious about that kind of stuff,” he snorts. “She’s the one that picked the date.”

“My parents were insistent about it too,” Eren notes. “That’s why it was so rushed…”

Mikasa tilts her head and asks, “You do know why, don’t you?” Eren blinks. He shakes his head. A sigh spills from the other as she closes her eyes and pinches the bridge of her nose. “I don’t care about what either of your parents want, if I find out you’re being an entitled knot-head, I’ll cut it off. Now go before his heat gets worse, I can smell it coming already.”

Does he really stink already? He didn’t think it would arrive this fast…

Thankfully, Levi doesn’t hesitate to begin moving him towards a pathway leading out of the botanical garden, Mike far ahead with his arms stacked high with gift bags and boxes.

Only once they’re out of earshot of the others does Eren ask, “What’s up with the moon?”

“The full moon?” Levi specifies. “Some wolves are superstitious and believe full moons mean a more successful and prosperous mating.”

“So they think that because we got mated today, with a full moon coming, we’re more likely to stay together, even though this was arranged?” Eren snorts at the insinuation, shaking his head.

“Yes, and more healthy pups.”

Oh. That’s. Great. Eren doesn’t meet his gaze as they move towards the car, doesn’t want to think about that right now, it’ll only make his heat worse.

Only once they’re seated in the back next to each other does Eren ask, “Do you think it’s true?”

“About the moon? I’ll believe it when I see it.”

Eren blinks. Huh? Brow furrowing, he prods, “What’s that supposed to mean?”

Levi snorts and looks at his phone. “It means I think it’s a load of bullshit, but if I see it come true with my own eyes, then maybe I’ll believe it’s real.”

The car begins moving as Eren turns to face the alpha more, ears flicking but standing straight and upright. He wants to see it? “What if I don’t want to?”

“What?” That manages to get the alpha looking at him, frowning. It takes a second before his eyes widen ever so slightly and Levi sneers. “I’m not going to force you to have sex if you’re not interested, Eren. Even if you’re in heat. I can control myself. If you wanted some abusive alpha to cry ‘woe is me’ over, I’m not that person. Calm the fuck down.”

Eren huffs and turns himself away. He hates that what Levi is saying is reasonable, that he can’t argue against the alpha’s words. The only thing he can say in retaliation is, “You just worded it weird.”

“I’ll make sure to be more specific so you don’t accidentally think everything I say is always about you.” Eren side-eyes the man, but he’s looking back at his phone once again. There’s not a single ounce of aggression seeping from him, maybe a faint edge of frustration, but nothing that would sting at his nose like rage would.

Either way, it’s not his fault for getting defensive! He just got mated to a stranger, what is he supposed to think when said stranger talks about pups?!

Instead of getting worked up, Eren grumbles when his middle tightens up, cramping. The seat shifts.

“Are you going to let me help?” Eren’s head shoots upright, eyes wide as he stares at Levi. In the car?! With a sigh, he clarifies, “My scent will help.”

Right. Scenting. Not… Right.

Eren adjusts how he’s sitting until he’s no longer turned away and nods. “Okay. That’s fine.”

He can’t help the way his body tenses as a hand moves towards him, eyeing it warily. Levi scoffs. “Stop tensing up, no wonder your heat hurts so bad.”

“It’s always been painful,” Eren excuses, twitching as the alpha sets a hand against the back of his head, gently guiding him in closer. Breathing through his nose, all he can smell is the soothing aroma oozing off his mate. Dammit, why does his scent work so well?! “Being mated makes it worse.”

Levi tightens his grip, holding Eren in place so he can meet his gaze with a stern glare. “Then stop being a stubborn brat and accept my help.” And as much as he wants to growl at the man for calling him a stubborn brat, it’ll only further prove his point.

So, instead, Eren stares at Levi’s neck, right where his scent is strongest. He leans in. Levi’s hand massages against the back of his head as he nudges Eren closer until his nose bumps against the alpha’s skin. The moment he inhales, the ache in his stomach eases within seconds. Damn Levi for being right…!

After shuffling his feet so he doesn’t cut off circulation, Eren leans further forward, mindful to set his hand on the seat and not anywhere… weird. But with the way Levi’s fingers gently work their way through his hair, mindful to not mess up his bun, hng— a pleasant little purr slips free without permission. Maybe it’s his imagination, but he swears Levi’s scent grows stronger, a richer hint to its deep musk, rut-like.

Even with his mate’s scent helping to ease the ache, it continues to remain as a deep throbbing within his gut, incessant and nonstop. Eren tries swallowing his pain at first, but when it gets to the point his thighs are shaking and he’s barely holding back slick, he can’t help but whine and squirm, huffing, hrgg! Fucking heat!

Levi shifts his head to ask against one of his ears, “Would a hot bath help?”

“What…?” Eren frowns. There isn’t a bath here. What kind of question is that? Also, how does he know what helps omegas in heat? Suspicious…

“I have a spa in the en suite, you can use it when we get home.”

Ohhh, a spa sounds wonderful, nice and warm… but, wait, first and foremost, Eren pulls back despite the hand at the back of his head to meet Levi’s stare as he asks, “How do you know what helps with heats, huh? First your scent and then a hot bath. Ruts aren’t the same thing.”

“You say that like I’ve never interacted with an omega before you,” the man says, voice deadpan. Well, when he puts it like that… “I have omega friends and an unmated omega mother too. Am I supposed to just let them struggle and not try to help?”

Eren looks down. That’s not what he meant, he was just suspicious! Maybe Levi’s helped omegas through heats before—that’s more than Eren can say for himself!

The hand at the back of his head gives a small tug at a lock of hair before leading him in closer. “Stop thinking so much, it’s dangerous. The spa is yours and you can make a nest on my bed afterwards since my scent is strongest there. I might as well take responsibility, since I’m the one that bit you…”

Eren sighs, allowing his eyes to close so he can at least try to relax. It’s… nice that Levi’s being so considerate, even if he doesn’t seem to be the cheeriest person to be around. But he’s honest and thoughtful in his own way. That’s what’s important.

He still can’t stop the nervous little jitter in his leg though, wants to bounce it to get the energy out.

It feels… odd. Going to an alpha’s house—his alpha’s house. While he’s in heat. He knows Levi said he would ‘help’ him with his heat earlier, but what exactly does that entail? Like… help help? Or just doing this, the holding and scenting thing?

Is… Is he even ready for someone to help him?

His thighs tremble, stomach twisting over itself as Eren huffs and breathes in Levi’s scent, focusing on letting out a long, slow breath. It’ll be fine, his family and friends—excluding Jean—say he’s trustworthy. And Levi hasn’t shown anything to prove otherwise. It’s just a typical heat, just like he always goes through, nothing special about it… except that he’s now mated and Levi is going to be around during it.

He’s not quite sure how long they drive for, but when Eren next looks out the windows, there’s a surprising amount of trees surrounding the road. Maybe it would’ve been a smart idea to get Levi’s address and find out where he lives before jumping in the car and going there whilst in heat. It's too late now.

But, to be fair, being close to nature is something that feels so natural, being a wolf and all.

Only when the car comes to a complete stop and the engine turns off does Eren lift his head up, regretfully pulling away from Levi as the alpha exits the car—a bit too quick. Maybe his scent is affecting him…

He manages to get one foot out of the car before Levi is right beside him, holding a hand out. “Don’t want you falling over and leaving a faceprint of makeup on the pathway,” he teases.

“I’m not wearing makeup,” Eren says. That gets the alpha to pause, peer at his face curiously, and let slip a noncommittal hum. Does… Does it look like he’s wearing makeup? Is that a compliment?

Eren can feel his face flush pink—and not just from the heat either. He takes Levi’s offered hand, appreciative for the support and avoiding the man’s stare. He isn’t even doing anything overly flirty or romantic but it still feels like even the smallest of things he says or does is the most perfect thing.

The house before him looks almost like a cabin; a metal roof with wooden beams and walls, but the windows are certainly modern and new, big enough to see the clean inside of the house even before Levi unlocks the front door. He shivers as he steps inside, looking around the living area that is soaked in the alpha’s scent. He wasn’t wrong about his judgement call, rustic but modern and sleek, a cabin in the woods fitted with modern appliances.

“Bedroom this way,” Levi says, ushering Eren along towards an open doorway. But, upon entering, Levi pauses. Eren almost asks why before the man approaches the bedside table and picks up a card.

Something falls out. Eren looks. A condom.

Levi growls lowly. “I’m gonna murder them.”

Eren stares for a solid two seconds as Levi sets the card on the nightstand and picks the condom up with a scowl. He flicks it into the drawer and closes it shut as he shakes his head.

“Who was it from?” Eren asks as Levi guides him over to another door. Ah, the en suite… That spa looks so good, like his name is written alllll over it.

“My friend, Furlan,” the alpha says with a snort. “He has a spare key just in case and must’ve thought it would be funny to leave it. Isabel probably helped.” Even though he sighs and shakes his head, Eren can’t see a single hint of legitimate annoyance on his face. He smells just the same as always… except maybe more appealing, but that’s just the heat talking!

Eren leans against the sink whilst Levi turns on the taps, testing the water temperature before putting the plug in.

“This button turns on the bubbles,” he explains, pointing at the silver dot embedded in the side.

Eren nods along, peering at the water rapidly filling the tub. He can’t wait to get in… literally. Eren pulls off his shoes and nudges them against the wall. The moment he begins to remove the garter from his leg, Levi turns to make his escape.

“Wait.” The alpha comes to a halt. Garter off, Eren turns his back to Levi and asks, “Can you undo me?” He isn’t answered by words, the alpha moving in closer silently. Eren’s skin prickles as fingers pinch the zipper and drag it down, helping move the delicate fabric aside. Eren certainly doesn’t miss the way Levi’s hand lingers around his waist before quickly retreating.

“Thank you.”

The man turns away again, hurrying into the master bedroom. Eren is almost offended, but he figures the alpha is just being polite, giving him his privacy. But when Eren stands up after removing his underwear, he’s met by sharp silver eyes in the mirror, only to disappear from view the next second.

Eren doesn’t hesitate to climb into the spa, ignoring the way his face is burning red.

He can’t help the sigh of pure relief that slips free when he settles in the warm water, ahh, finally… just what he needs! Eren settles father in the spa, leaning against the edge so he’s practically lying down. And, sure, the heat feels wonderful, but… he misses Levi’s scent.

Staring at the bedroom door, he tries to spot the alpha, but all he sees is a hand reaching out to set a tie on the dresser, folded neatly.

“Levi?” he calls. The alpha hums in response but doesn’t look. Maybe he’s embarrassed from being caught before? Eren has to take a second to pause and think about how to word this before asking, “Can you help wash me?”

After a moment of silence in which Eren half expects him to refuse, Levi returns, no longer wearing his suit jacket or tie, the top two buttons undone on his shirt. “Your back?” he asks, pushing his sleeves up and crouching beside the spa

“And hair.” He reaches up to begin removing his bun and the little flower decorations, carefully putting them on the counter nearby.

Levi begins combing his fingers gently through the brown strands, untangling them. Eren side-glances how he’s crouching to do so, kneeling on one leg and leaning on his elbow. He doesn’t look when he says, “You’re going to hurt your back leaning like that.”

“Then turn away from me instead of sideways,” the alpha suggests, shifting backwards.

However, instead of listening, Eren intentionally sways his tail through the warm water filling the tub behind him and says, “There’s plenty of space.”

That has to get his point across, right? He can’t make it more obvious without telling Levi straight up to get in the damn spa. Eren will die of embarrassment…

Thankfully, Levi understands what’s being asked. He stands. Eren listens intently to the sound of buttons being undone and fabric shifting. When the omega chances a glance in the mirror, he’s welcomed by the sight of an unclothed, chiselled, muscular body until he steps into the spa. Mindful of his tail, the water rises when Levi sits behind Eren and sets a hand against the brunette’s side. “This what you wanted?”

Eren gives a small nod, staring at the counter. He feels Levi shifting around, moving. He has to control the urge to turn around and look, so wary, wanting to see what the alpha is doing, only to fall still as a warm cloth rubs over his back, spreading soapy suds across his skin.

It’s purely instinct the way his tail begins swaying side to side, brushing over Levi’s legs and against his stomach. Eren shuffles his knees to the side into a more comfortable position. His hair moves as Levi pushes it out of the way, over the omega’s shoulder. For someone with such short hair, he’s rather gentle, mindful to avoid tugging on any knots.

One thing is certain though; Levi isn’t just washing his back, he’s pressing in with his fingers, right into tense muscles, hard enough to massage a pleasant, rich purr out of Eren.

It’s hard to tell if Levi’s just being nice or if he’s intentionally trying to woo him. Either way, Eren can’t hide the trilling purr seeping out of his chest, malleable in Levi’s hands as the alpha washes his back.

It’s purely instinct the way he slowly pushes against the touches, a low groan spilling out at a particularly hard muscle being worked out. Who can blame him? When was the last time he got a massage? Eren can’t remember.

So when Eren finally blinks his eyes open—ah, when did he close them…?—and sees Levi, he pauses. The cloth no longer washes his back, instead resting on Eren’s chest. Maybe he leaned a bit too far back; the warmth against his back isn’t from the water, no; it’s too solid.

“You’re not fully in heat,” the alpha notes, dragging the cloth across Eren’s chest, right down the middle, only to swipe to the side across his stomach. Eren swallows. “So tell me now what you want.”

“Huh?” Eren frowns. Hasn’t he been clear…?

“How much of my ‘help’ do you want while you’re in heat?” Levi clarifies. “Because I can simply bring you food and water and give you items with my scent on it or I can help you the way you need it.” Oh…

Brow furrowed, Eren hesitates, thinking over the question. He’s fine with just… leaving him be? Not touching him while he’s in heat? That’s… respectable.

But it will be pure agony and torture for him, freshly mated, to go through a heat alone without relief.

“Any and all help would be great,” he admits, avoiding meeting Levi’s gaze. Is he really going to do this? Let this stranger take care of his heat? Can he even really call Levi a stranger anymore? They’re officially mated, before witnesses and everything…

“Then I’ll be with you through it.”

The way he says it, so casually, as if he isn’t talking about how he’s going to fuck and knot him senseless for the next few days. Eren can’t help the way he leans into the touches as Levi washes over his chest, thighs squeezing together.

But when the alpha pauses and Eren feels him shifting, he hums and looks up. “Are you taking anything?” He tilts his head. “The pill?” Shit, right, because… because he’s in heat, he could… yeah.

He hasn’t exactly been taking anything, no contraceptives or suppressants, had no reason to take them. And maybe he could get an after-heat pill but…

“No,” he admits, idly swishing the water around with his feet. “I don’t want to.”

“You don’t want to?” Levi repeats. Eren nods. “Eren… if you want my help during your heat, you need to be on something.”

Eren snorts. “Didn’t you say you would take care of me and however many pups I want?” When he looks up at the alpha he’s met by furrowed brows and lips thinned into a line. “Or was that all just talk?” A way to convince Eren that he’s ‘the one’ for him.

“I was not expecting you to be interested in such a big commitment so fast,” Levi says, resuming washing over Eren’s chest. It’s not fair how easily the movements distract him, purr rumbling beneath his ribs as his eyes threaten to fall closed. It’s the intimacy, the closeness of it, domesticity… “Did you always want pups? Or is it only recently?”

Eren pauses at the question, thinking it over a few times as his ears twitch.

“I’ve always wanted them, ever since I was little,” he admits, shuffling to get more comfortable in the spa as he leans further against Levi. “I like the idea of having my own pups with my mate and caring for them, but it’s not like I had the opportunity to actually have them before and there’s no way I’d be able to raise pups all on my own.”

There’s a momentary pause before Levi hums and concludes, “And now that you’re mated to me, you think it’s reasonable to have them.”

“You said you’d care for them and me,” Eren counters. Then, quieter, he asks, “Do you… not want pups?" Maybe he misinterpreted something.

“It’s the same as how I wasn’t going out of my way to get a mate.” Eren feels his purr grow louder as the alpha moves to rub the wash cloth across his stomach. “I felt I would eventually have them, but left it all up to fate. And now you, I suppose.”

A smile spreads across the omega’s face at the admission. Then they’re in agreement, it seems.

Eren sits upright, noting the way Levi makes room for him, only to blink in surprise as Eren scoots himself forward and lies down completely so he can submerge his hair all the way under, carding fingers through brown strands to smooth it all out. He pauses at the presence of another hand, staring up at Levi as the alpha toys with his hair, detangling it.

When he sits up again, he doesn’t even say anything before Levi picks up a bottle of shampoo. Watching Eren, he waits for the brunette to turn away to pour it into his hand. Hopefully he doesn’t pull on his hair too much; Eren doesn’t want to let slip an embarrassing noise… But he’s gentle, fingers digging into his scalp, massaging it. And, honestly, with all this attention, Eren’s almost completely forgotten his heat.

It’s almost like a spa treatment when he lies down to wash away the suds and bubbles. Levi turns off the taps, figuring the water level is high enough.

The conditioner has Eren’s purr growing even louder, he swears the water is vibrating with the sound. Levi doesn’t exactly seem like the smiling type of guy, but the look on his face when Eren lies down again to wash his hair clean can only be described as soft.

With his hair sleek and clean, Eren sits up and sticks a finger in his ear, head tipping to get water out of them. One of the few downsides of being a wolf…

He freezes. Thinks. Then sits up on his knees.

“Can you… wash…?” Eren looks back over his shoulder as he intentionally wiggles his tail. It’s almost comedic how Levi’s gaze drops down to it, staring.

He picks up the bottle of shampoo again.

It’s not the same as getting his hair washed by someone else; he can have that done at the salon if he’s getting it trimmed. Having someone else washing his tail… The first touch has his legs twitching. Eren leans forward to hide his face in his arms as firm fingers begin gently massaging through soft fur.

Eren bites his tongue to keep quiet. He can’t let Levi hear him enjoying it too much, that’s mortifying. But it certainly doesn’t help with how gentle he’s being with carefully cleaning every little bit. He just hopes the alpha doesn’t notice the telltale shake in his legs that wants him to sit back down.

Then Levi rubs particularly close to the sensitive underside. Try as he might, there’s no stopping the pleasant little moan that spills forth at the touch, face burning red. Levi pauses in his movements. Only for a second, then he goes back to gently massaging, thankfully over less delicate areas.

“Wash it off,” he says. Eren sighs as he drops down into the water again. Dammit, he wasn’t expecting to be so… responsive. And, to make matters worse, there’s no denying the warmth he can feel starting to ooze out of him. If he sits up, there’s no way Levi won’t be able to smell it.

Levi picks up the conditioner, unaware of Eren’s dilemma. He’s being so doting on him, not fair!

Eren sits up again, albeit with some hesitation, but so what? Levi knows he’s bordering on his heat, they’ve already agreed to letting the alpha ‘help’ him through it, so it should be a compliment that he’s slicking already, right?

Midway through applying the conditioner to soft brown fur, Eren can tell exactly when he recognises the smell—his hands pause and, through the sound of water sloshing around, he can hear Levi sniffing a few times.

It has to be intentional the way he pays extra special attention along the base of his tail. Eren lets slip a low keen, and grips the spa edge tighter.

“Wash.”

Eren sits down in the water quickly, small waves splashing against the sides. This time, however, Levi helps with rinsing. Ears pinned flat, his legs tremble even more, especially when Levi skims along the backs of his thighs. He has to know what he’s doing, right? The way each touch has Eren’s skin burning hotter, fighting the urge to… to bend over or spread his legs or maybe both! Hng, dammit!

Maybe it’s his heat, maybe it’s all the intimate touches, but his stubborn attempts to stay sitting only lasts a few more seconds before Eren gives in. The constant, persistent ache in his stomach eases the instant he leans forward, forehead resting on his folded arms. Taut muscles slowly ease, relaxing as he settles.

He almost doesn’t realise what position he’s in until a hand pushes his tail between his legs. Eren swallows, heat radiating from behind, skin brushing against his thighs as droplets fall upon his back.

“I’m not knotting you in the damn spa,” Levi mutters, voice right beside his ear.

Eren can’t help his disappointed little whine.

With a snort, the alpha wraps his arm around Eren’s middle and squeezes, fingers curling along his hip. Why the hell isn’t he giving him what he needs? He’s presenting and everything! “Why not?”

“You’ll prune, your knees will hurt, the water will spill out.” Eren shivers at the faint bite near his neck, goosebumps spreading across his flushed skin, only for Levi to retreat the next second. “I’m hopping out.”

“No, wait!” Eren rushes to say, making Levi pause before he can stand up. Then, carefully sitting down in the water, he peers over his shoulder and says, “Stay in here.”

The alpha sighs and closes his eyes. He doesn’t leave though, instead leaning against the end of the spa. It gives the omega a perfect view of his chiselled chest and muscular arms, veins running along them and over the backs of his hands. Damn…

When Levi looks at Eren again, his head tilts ever so slightly, observing him. “Fine, but I’m serious. Our first time isn’t happening in a spa. Next thing I know you’re slipping over and giving yourself a concussion. Great honeymoon story to tell the inlaws.”

Maybe he shouldn’t, but Eren can’t help chuckling a little. His parents would be rather concerned if that were to happen, Carla especially. His mirth fades away into a quiet whine that he struggles to muffle. It’s such an instinctive urge to stay presenting, the position alone helping alleviate the tense ache within his gut, but he can’t talk to Levi like that, dammit.

When Eren turns around, he’s grateful for the swirl of soap clouding the water’s surface. It doesn’t matter that he’s now mated to Levi, he’s not used to being so exposed around him yet.

Eren grabs the bottle of shampoo, squirting some into his hand and staring at Levi. “Fair’s fair,” he says. The alpha’s lips purse. “I don’t want to waste it!”

"Fine," Levi says, shifting. Eren watches as he submerges under the water and sits, back turned and tipping his head to get water out of his pricked ears.

He wants to return all the subtle affection the alpha has given him, a two-way street, give and take. Levi's hair has some kind of gel or spray in it, keeping it in place, but it melts away and softens with each pass of Eren’s fingers. His ears don’t move or shift. Even when he runs his hands over them, they have a stiffness to them, immediately returning upright.

“Why don’t your ears lie flat?” he asks, chuckling as he plays with them. It’s kinda funny.

“They were made to stay like that.” Oh. Eren blinks. He traces a finger along the sides, looking for the scars. “I don’t remember when it happened.”

“That’s good,” Eren says, voice low. He didn’t know some people still practised cropping, especially on pups that can’t even remember it. He keeps his touches soft as he massages the soap through until satisfied. “Okay, rinse.” Levi leans back, eyes closed, removing all the bubbles, only to sit up and tilt his head again to get the water out. Right, he can’t keep it out…

He’s quiet throughout, though Eren feels his head tilt into the touch of his fingers as they spread conditioner. At least he’s enjoying it, he thinks. But when he washes off this time, Eren covers his ears. Levi blinks. He doesn’t stop him. That’s a win!

And when he goes back to the shampoo, Levi understands and sits up more. Eren pauses. Being so close, he can see the tiniest little imperfections on the alpha’s skin, the little nicks and bumps of lighter skin, raised scars. And there’s… a concerning amount. Well, he is in the military, so it’s to be expected, but still…

Eren swallows when he shampoos his mate’s tail, eyes scanning across Levi’s heavily marred skin. A rumble vibrates through the air, low and rattly. Eren’s hair stands on end, only for Levi to say, “I’m not growling.”

It really does sound like a growl though, so rough around the edges, but who is he to judge?

Eren helps with shampooing and conditioning Levi’s fur until it’s smooth and silky black, can’t help but run his fingers through it a couple times. Then, slowly, he leans forward until he can push his cheek against the alpha’s shoulder, rubbing his scent into the wet skin. Levi’s rattling purr pauses, head tilting. Then, slowly, the alpha turns and slides a hand around Eren’s waist as he sits, pulling the brunette closer.

He teeters, losing balance, only to find Levi holding his weight, chest-to-chest. When the man stares, Eren turns his face down so he can scent at the older’s shoulder again, breathing in his alluring aroma and pretending it doesn’t make his thighs tremble.

He doesn’t notice Levi moving until the sound of the bubbles and jets has him jumping. The water swirls around them, foaming up as pressure pushes against his legs from the openings. However, it doesn’t ease the persistent ache to be touched between his legs.

Eren settles comfortably against Levi’s front, purr rolling deep beneath his ribs as he nudges his nose against Levi’s neck. A hand traces along his back, drawing shapes he can’t recognise.

When the alpha stays true to his word, being ever so controlled, Eren decides he might as well try.

He nips at Levi’s neck, missing his mark the first time before targeting the alpha’s scent gland the next moment. He’s met by a low grunt. His hand stills. Eren can’t help the little smile that spreads across his face.

“What’s wrong?” he asks, unable to hide the bemused lilt sitting beneath his question. Levi’s throat moves, ready to respond. Eren nips him again. The alpha’s purr darkens, bordering on a growl, but without the warning threat of aggression—playful? Maybe?

“It seems I mated a brat,” Levi mutters, hand trailing along Eren’s spine, water trickling over flushed pink skin. Eren almost laughs, only to squeak when a firm hand squeezes around his tail, startlingly close to the base. “You want to try that again?”

Eren thinks for all of two seconds before his grin returns. He nips the sensitive spot a second time.

Immediately, Levi gives a faint tug—not enough to hurt but plenty enough to have a thick glob of slick immediately dribbling out as Eren groans. It doesn’t stop there though. Within a single moment, Eren finds himself flipped around onto his back, water sloshing against his chest as he gasps. Levi looms overhead, hand readjusting its grip. His arm loops suggestively beneath Eren’s thigh, thumb dragging across soft skin.

Eren squirms and tries to put his leg beneath him, only for a knee to knock it aside, foot unable to gain grip on the slippery spa floor. Water and bubbles blast against his backside—and very noticeably over his ass and thighs. He tries to squirm and escape one more time, spine arching and head thrown back as he pushes with his feet, only to be held down with a flat palm upon his sternum, pressing gently but firmly.

Levi cares not for his antics. He leans in slowly, gaze searching across the omega’s chest, up his freshly-marked neck, to his pink tinged face.

It’s all too natural to tilt his head and greet Levi with a press of lips, soft and intimate in a way he never knew was possible. Eyes closed, all Eren can go off is the small touches; fingers tracing back and forth over his chest as the other cards along his tail and briefly skims the backs of his thighs.

It’s nothing like the kisses they exchanged earlier; this one holds a startling heat behind it. Eren tentatively flicks his tongue at Levi, only to gasp a moment later when the alpha taps the underside of his chin and pries his lips apart to taste him better.

His purr stutters with a breathy little groan. He can’t even be ashamed; he’s already naked in a spa with a stranger that’s now his mate. What’s new?

Fingers slide up along the shaven hairs on Levi’s head until they can curl within inky locks, toying with them. His thighs twitch, frustrated that Levi isn’t between them, holding them apart the way they should be. Fuck, maybe his heat is really kicking in now…

Between little breaths, and the occasional soft moan, Eren tries to get a single word out, only to shudder when a firm hand squeezes at his thigh. Shit, shit, he is not going to last with this!

“Wah—Wait…!” he gasps. Finally, Levi relents, pulling back and staring down at him. Eren swallows another embarrassing noise, taking a slow breath in an attempt to calm himself down. It doesn’t work, but he can speak at least, even when all he wants is Levi touching him and not stopping. “Maybe, uhh, we can hop out?”

Something in the alpha’s stare sharpens for a brief second before he nods and pulls back. Eren misses the touches immediately, smothering a whine as he sits up more, legs shaking.

Eren does not look when Levi stands up, totally does not get a good look at his mate’s cock which has certainly taken interest during their intimate kisses. Levi steps out and retrieves two towels, offering one to Eren as he drapes the other over his shoulder.

Eren takes the towel with a, “Thanks,” as he follows suit. Levi towels himself off by the door, turning away to avoid staring. It’s… nice. He appreciates it.

Eren focuses on drying every droplet of water he can find and then rubbing through his hair and fur. It’s not really possible to get rid of all the slick sliding out of him since it just… will not stop.

Levi exits first, towel back to hanging on the rail as he moves into the bedroom. Eren stares a little bit before quickly finishing off drying himself clean.

He stares at his clothes nearby thoughtfully before dismissing them. What’s the point? They’ll just be taken off anyway. Eren hangs his towel beside his mate’s and, with a slow breath, steps after Levi. Why’s he so worried about being seen naked? They were just in the bath together, it’s no different.

Levi certainly notices when he appears, head turning away from his dresser and pausing upon seeing all the exposed skin on display. His gaze slowly lifts to Eren’s face, sharpening with a faint hunger.

A whine bubbles up in Eren’s throat, slipping free as he steps forward, then changes his mind and moves towards the bed instead.

He gets one knee up and immediately has to fight the urge to present yet again. He’s at the perfect height though! Thighs trembling against the instinct to simply bend over, Eren takes a slow breath and crawls into the middle of the mattress, only to sit down and turn towards Levi. The alpha isn’t even following after him! Just standing there, one hand resting on the sheets, staring. Eren only has to whine for two seconds before his mate is right there beside him. Delight sparks under his skin wherever Levi touches, trailing along his leg.

“Aren’t you going to make a nest?” the man asks. A nest? Eren frowns a little as he grabs hold of Levi’s bicep and tugs. Isn’t he supposed to be closer? Helping take care of his heat? C’mooon! The alpha leans forward, only to pause and say, “You’ll feel better if you have a nest to lie in afterwards, safer.”

Well, that makes sense, he guesses. Nesting does make him feel better during heat, but… “Only if you help me make it.”

Levi snorts under his breath as he nods and steps back. Eren fights against the urge to pull him in closer again, instead electing to grab the pillows from the head of the bed, contemplating if he wants them over or under the blankets. Maybe under…?

“Catch.” Eren turns around. An extra pillow thumps against his chest. He gapes as the alpha tsks and shakes his head. “Shit reflexes.”

“Wh— You caught me off guard!” Levi looks at him and raises a single eyebrow. He throws another pillow. It smacks into Eren’s shoulder as the omega gapes. “I wasn’t ready! And I’m in heat!”

The edge of neediness sitting beneath his words fades away the instant Levi sets a blanket on the mattress beside him and leans forward into Eren’s space. “Then you better make your nest quickly,” the alpha says as he nudges the sheets closer to Eren, “so I can help make that better for you.”

Each syllable alone sends sparks of lightning striking through Eren’s nerves, all coiling deep in his gut where a hollow ache resides. He fails to keep down the desperate little whine that sits deep in his throat, shrill and needy. What else is he supposed to do? Not react to his mate promising to fuck and knot him? Bah!

Levi gently takes one of the pillows Eren had been unintentionally kneading with his fingers. “Nest first,” he reminds. Right, right, nest, right…

Eren fiddles around with the pillows, needs them to be in the right position or else it just… doesn’t feel right! Readjusts the blankets where Levi lays them until he is eventually satisfied with it. The fact that each article is covered in his alpha’s intoxicating aroma only makes the process slower as he sniffs at each one.

Only once Eren is one hundred percent satisfied does he settle in the middle of his new nest, knees tucked to the side. He can cross his ankles all he likes; there’s no denying the saccharine scent of slick pouring into the air.

When the alpha doesn’t immediately join him in the nest—like he should—Eren huffs and stares at Levi with what he hopes is frustration and annoyance. “You better get your ass in here in the next five seconds.”

Whether he didn’t succeed in his intimidation or Levi is just completely unflappable, the man merely blinks at him and says, “It’s like being threatened by a pup. Almost cute, if you weren’t a grown ass adult.”

Eren gapes, mouth opening and closing two times before he huffs irritably, tail smacking the bed. The sound trails off into a whine though when he leans forward and grabs onto Levi’s arm. His attempt to tug his mate into the nest is akin to trying to drag a three tonne rock up a hill; he doesn’t move an inch! It’s not until Eren feels that trembling ache searing deeper in his gut, demanding to be satisfied, that he keens louder and lifts Levi’s hand to his face, scenting at it.

“Get in here, dammit!” He sounds more petulant than demanding, like a pup stomping its foot. “It hurts.”

And right when he thinks Levi might refuse, the alpha gives in, cupping Eren’s cheek as he joins him. “I’ll take the pain away, stop throwing a tantrum, brat.”

Finally.

A smile spreading across his face, Eren leans back against soft pillows. He shuffles to make space for Levi, pausing to think before settling his legs on either side of the alpha. It’s almost comedic how dark grey eyes trail down to between his legs. The staring has Eren’s face flushing a rich shade of pink.

He doesn’t have time to dwell; the alpha settles a knee against the underside of Eren’s leg, nudging it up ever so slightly. The action alone has his hair standing on end.

Fingers tip his chin up, greeting him with a kiss, deceptively soft given his provocative position.

His leg twitches at the feeling of a hand gliding along the outside, all the way up to his waist, thumbing at his hip bones. Thighs trembling, Eren fights off the urge to squeeze them together, searching for some kind of friction, anything! He needs something to plug all the slick slowly leaking out and staining the sheets.

Levi finally pulls back, gaze searching across Eren’s eyes as he asks, “Have you done this before?”

Eren scoffs and tries to roll his eyes. “What? Yeah, duh, of course I have, like uhh, all the time.” But the moment Levi hooks a hand under his leg and pulls it up, spreading him open, he immediately whimpers. “Ah, no, no, I’m messing with you. I just… didn’t wanna seem stupid.” The alpha’s hold loosens. He glances at Levi’s face and sees that same softness that makes him want to melt. “This is my first time… uh, ever…”

“No need to impress me,” Levi chastises. He doesn’t sound mad, just… reminding him.

Eren nods and squirms, shuffling into a more comfortable position, only to pause when Levi’s hand rubs along his inner thigh. He stares, shivers, and tries not to show how much it’s affecting him—a lot.

Scent thick and heady, Eren takes deep breaths, in and out. Just having his mate here, so close, makes his heat easier to bear, but also the most sweetest of torture. Knees nudge on either side of the alpha’s waist, only to squeeze together when Levi leans in closer, damp hair falling across his eyes.

“Let me eat you out.”

Eren gapes. He can feel his cheeks turning red, hot and flushed all over and not just from his heat. He thinks Levi’s joking at first, but the dark look in his eyes, the way he doesn’t turn away, no, he’s not joking.

Fingers tapping at the alpha’s arm, Eren looks off to the side as he mumbles, “You don’t have to…”

“Translation; you want it but don’t know how to ask for it,” Levi says as he drags Eren’s legs apart. Dammit, is he that readable?

Not that he has the time to think about his shit coverup skills with his mate settling a palm upon his chest, keeping him in place. Shit, is he supposed to, like, watch him? Or look away? He can’t look away though, not with the way Levi is staring at him like he’s a five-course meal and he hasn’t eaten in a week.

Eren twitches at the first touch of lips against heated skin, trailing along slick-stained thighs. Breath hitching, he swallows a little whimper when Levi drags his tongue across Eren’s dribbling hole.

There’s no way he can hold back the breathy moan that spills out of him at the first touch. It’s not like he can blush any harder than he already is! Thighs twitching, Eren squeezes his thighs on either side of Levi’s head, unable to press them together, dammit!

And when the alpha grips onto his hips tighter and drags Eren harder against his mouth, lips sealing around him, he gives up on trying to ground himself and latches onto Levi’s hair.

The man tenses at the touch, gaze unwavering, drinking in every single response Eren gives him. He doesn’t pull but he needs to hold onto Levi somehow! It’s like he’ll drown without a buoy to keep him afloat.

Levi drags his tongue up along the omega’s dripping folds, barely dipping inside of him.

Eren tosses his head with another raunchy groan of delight, back arching as he squirms. Shit, hng, does it always feel this good? Or is it just because he’s in heat? Fuck, is it just Levi? If so, then jackpot.

Skin shimmering with heat, he twitches at Levi’s fingers as they draaaag over his hip, down his thigh, then smooth along his clenching stomach. His mouth doesn’t stop, tongue moving like it’s exploring every single inch it can reach. And when he pays extra special attention to the omega’s throbbing clit, it has him jerking with a cry, eyes scrunching shut.

He can’t even speak, not a single word coming to mind except the frantic desire for more.

Whine sitting high in his throat, Eren chances a glance down. He’s met by dark eyes that haven’t moved from his face for a single second, soaking it all in. His keening grows louder, head turning the other way, unable to hide from such an intense stare. His legs tremble even harder when Levi gives a harsh suck before tongue-fucking his sopping cunt just to hear him gasp and whimper so deliciously.

He’s playing him like a fiddle and he’s got a fucking degree in music or some shit, augh! Eren cards his fingers through Levi’s hair, panting as blissful warmth bubbles within his gut.

No matter how much he squirms or writhes or shakes like he’s ready to fall apart, Levi doesn’t let up. His fingers tighten, no doubt leaving behind bruises that will last for days to come, a reminder of this night.

“Levi,” he gasps, only to whimper at a particularly blissful spark of pleasure. His spine curves off the bed, shudders racing along fiery nerves as his toes curl, slick coating his thighs only to be lapped up not even a second later by hungry lips and a talented tongue. Shit, he can barely even speak like this, dammit, aghhh! “Levi, wait, wait, please…!”

Finally, the alpha relents, lifting his head and licking his lips, pupils blown. Shit, he looks so hot…

“I want you,” he pants, face flushed all over. Any more and he’ll internally combust! And maybe it’s a bit selfish, but he doesn’t want to cum so soon, wants it to happen later when they’re more… connected.

At least Levi doesn’t tease him any further, humming as he sits up and slides closer, fitting in between Eren’s legs so perfectly. His cock visibly twitches, red and hard, shit, his knot’s probably big too.

With Levi so close, it’s like torture to not give in already, heat fluttering right beneath his skin, itching and aching. He could so easily hook his legs around the alpha’s and haul him in closer until they’re tied.

Instead, Eren twists himself over, accidentally bumping a leg against Levi’s side. “Sorry,” he mumbles as he shuffles on his knees, teetering at one point. A firm hand grabs his hip, keeping him upright so he doesn’t fall over, appreciative fingers stroking along the swell of his ass, eliciting goosebumps all over.

The moment Eren rests his head against the soft sheets, it’s like a puzzle piece falls into place. Spine arching, Eren lets slip a blissful purr as he presents, toes curling and squeezing on either side of Levi like he’s trying to pull him in closer.

Heat slowly drapes across his backside like a blanket, hand resting beside his face, tendons flexing like he’s straining to keep himself in check.

“Good?” Levi asks, breath gravelly against the shell of Eren’s ear. He nods immediately, yes, yes, perfect, only to twitch at the press of his mate’s cock slowly spreading open his slick-drenched pussy.

What started as a small tremble immediately ramps up into a full body shudder, a keen spilling from Eren’s lips as he yanks at the sheets beneath him and clenches down around his alpha as he slowly presses in, bit by bit. He doesn’t know what to blame; being freshly mated, his first time, or it could just be Levi. Either way, every single cell inside sparks with fire, waves of bliss washing through Eren, mouth hanging open as his hands shake with each throbbing pulse.

It doesn’t help when Levi pushes closer, sliding deeper and dragging out his pleasure. Eren smacks his foot against the edge of his nest, keening, hips twisting, doesn’t know if he wants to push back or retreat, so much, too much? Hngg—

The first thing Eren notices upon slowly coming down from his high is lips right beside his ear, breath low and fast. He turns towards it, swallowing and licking his lips, a whimper stuck in his throat at the sensitive little twitches sparking through his limbs.

“Did you just cum?” he questions, face so close, but Eren can still see how dilated his pupils are, staring intently. He nods, can’t hide it. Levi shifts, hips grinding that little bit deeper, yanking another delicious moan from the omega beneath him. “You good if I move?”

“Please,” Eren says without hesitation, struggling to turn his head and look over his shoulder. He must look pathetic—or maybe desperate—but either way, his alpha doesn’t dare look away from him. His voice wavers when he begs, “Please move.” It’s such a carnal desire, a need for Levi to start moving, to properly fuck him like his heat demands. And it won’t rest until his mate’s knot is locked deep inside.

The hands on his hips tighten, holding him in place, squeezing in a reassuring manner. Even amidst screwing an omega in heat, he’s being so careful…

Bubbles sizzle beneath his skin, only to sear into a scorching flame upon feeling Levi pulling back. Even though he knows he isn’t stopping, just the movement alone has Eren straining to push his hips back, a whine stuck in his chest, high-pitched and frantic to drag Levi back in.

He need not fret; the alpha uses his grip to push forward, sliding back home and sending sparks shooting along Eren’s spine from how deep he reaches. He’s going slow, mindful of Eren’s first time when all the omega wants is to be properly bred.

Clutching at the sheets, Eren scrunches his eyes shut, satisfying pleasure pulsing over and over. It’s exactly what he needs, finally fulfilling his heat’s hungry desire. Countless heats spent alone and now he has an alpha to spend it with at last.

A pitching keen spills into the air, fuck, so good, dammit. Maybe he should’ve risked spending his heat with someone before, but he just… never felt like it. He can’t stop twitching and shuddering, each slide home yanking another breathy sound from swollen lips.

“More,” he whispers, voice muffled by soft blankets. Levi lets slip a curious noise, leaning forward, hand beside his head as hot air wafts across his shoulders. Louder, he whines, “More!”

Just one word is all he has to say for Levi to shift his knees into a better position and thrust harder, deeper. Each motion has more slick sliding down his thighs, easing the way. He swears he can feel Levi’s knot, the faint swell that stretches him open bit by bit on each push and pull.

“Knot?” Eren breathes, a questioning tone behind his words as his thighs twitch even more.

Levi huffs overhead, releasing a sound that is almost a groan but with a growl mixed beneath it. “Yeah, that’s my knot,” he sighs. A hot mouth slides along the side of his neck, causing Eren to absolutely melt beneath him at the hint of teeth.

“Want… your knot.” His insides ache for it. Beforehand, he could power through his heat without too much trouble, but Eren feels as though he’s going to fall apart any second now if he doesn’t have his mate’s knot filling him up. A frantic whine stuck in his throat, Eren sobs and begs, “Please, I need it, need you, Levi, alpha, please, I need your knot!”

The hand beside his face shifts, other arm supporting Levi’s weight as the alpha gently traces a couple fingers along his clenching jaw. “Shh, you’ll get it, promise, you can have my knot.” To prove his point, Eren finds himself having to cling tighter to the sheets as his mate pins him by the shoulder and slams his hips against the omega’s ass, thrusting harder, deeper.

All thoughts of being embarrassed fly clean out the window, mouth fallen open as the omega moans, forever grateful that they’re in a forest without anyone nearby to overhear his noisy pleasure.

Upon feeling hot breath beside his face, Eren turns and pushes his cheek against Levi’s chin. “Levi, Alpha, alpha—” A blissful cry cuts him off, spine arching up from the nest as he kicks at a pillow. Amidst panting groans, he pleads, “Hnngng, alpha, bite me!”

“Ah? Bite you?” Levi repeats. Eren nods frantically, eyes scrunching shut, struggling to push his hips back to meet his mate’s thrusts. Firm lips slide along the side of his sweat-coated throat until they linger right over his still-healing mating mark. The omega strains and bares his neck even more, throat vibrating with his ecstasy-soaked noises.

He doesn’t have to wait, not with his alpha; fangs sink into his skin yet again, sharper and in time with the unforgiving push of a fattening knot against his soaking cunt. Eren feels his body give way, feels his mate stuffed tight inside of him, sliding deeper till he squeals and trembles, mated and bitten again.

Eren tries to give warning, hand raising and shaking in the air, fingers splayed. Levi either doesn’t see or doesn’t care to stop, continuing to grind his hips forward in tantalising circles that set alight his insides.

If he thought that his earlier orgasm was heaven, then this one is like he’s ascended even further beyond the realm of reality. He can’t even hear the white noise, mouth open in a silent scream—is it silent? Or is it hiding beneath the constant buzz of pleasure? He’ll have to ask Levi later.

Slick steadily trickles along his inner thighs, trailing down to his knees and soaking into the bedsheets—dammit, they’re already so wet, is that all from him? Eren gasps when he finally comes back to reality, only to cry out when Levi bites him harder, shit, ahh! Just the mere twitching of his mate’s cock inside his sensitive pussy has Eren jerking in response. Warmth floods inside of him, oozing and satisfying his previously unquenchable heat. The alpha grunts, low and deep, a pleased growl sewn into the harsh sound.

Chest vibrating, Eren sighs as he sags against the nest, eyes sliding closed. Everything feels right.

He purrs louder when Levi cleans up the blood dribbling from his tender neck, only twitching once or twice from a faint twinge of pain. He did it, he took his mate’s knot! First time too. Hell yeahhhh…

Lifting his head, Eren nudges against Levi’s chin, silently requesting more attention. And when he grinds his hips back greedily, shivering in delight, he’s answered by a deep groan and twitch inside of him. So what if he does it two—three times? He’s allowed to! They’re mates, they can screw as much as they want!

Except maybe he should’ve been more careful of winding his mate up.

Eren only has a brief second or two of warning, Levi’s grip shifting higher and tightening, before his world spins and he finds himself sitting atop his alpha’s lap, knot still stuffed deep inside of him. Eyes wide, he peers back at the man’s face, only to see blown pupils and sweat-soaked skin.

“Go on,” he huffs, voice low and gravelly, “you want my knot so bad, you can ride it yourself.”

Eren stares. Huh? What was that? Mouth open, he blinks at Levi, expecting this to be some joke. But, no, the alpha meets his gaze without wavering, hand rubbing along the small of the brunette’s back, trailing right over the soft fur of his tail where it meets skin.

He almost backs out, thinks about simply sitting there and waiting for Levi’s knot to go down, but, dammit, it feels good! He wants more.

Eren shifts his knees, staring down at the mess of sheets and pillows beneath him. No… he wants to see his mate’s face this time. Cautiously, he turns until he’s straddling Levi, hand balancing for support as the other tries to find the right place to be. He’s thinking too much about it, damn, it was easier when he was too messed up by his heat to do anything but beg!

While he can’t exactly pick himself up, all Eren has to do is grind his hips in little small circles, shoving Levi’s knot further and further inside of him, over and over. It’s even better when he can see the sheer hungry pleasure sitting behind Levi’s piercing eyes.

At first, Eren can’t help but let slip a breathy little laugh as he moves, smiling, he’s got this! Feels that lovely bubble boiling inside of him, expanding with each roll of his hips, tugging on the fat knot stuffed inside of him. He can’t help but wonder if maybe he can make Levi cum again if he keeps going, judging by the open-mouthed panting from the alpha. Shit, he didn’t realise how big his mate’s fangs really are… but they sure felt sharp when biting into him!

Whine in his throat, Eren leans forward, hands resting upon Levi’s muscular chest, having to fight back the urge to dig his nails in, it’s just so damn good!

But with each motion, each rock back and forth or up and down, his legs ache. His whine grows more earnest, shit, this is harder than expected.

“Levi,” he sighs, head bowing forward and hair falling down around his shoulders. Eren tries to lean forward more, but then he doesn’t get enough delicious friction upon his clit, it’s not the same! Hnggg—

Fingers dig harder into Eren’s hips, nails almost cutting into his skin as Levi’s legs shift just enough that he can push up and meet each downfall.

Panting, Eren lets his eyes fall closed so he can simply enjoy the feeling of it, the throbbing pulse inside of him that wants more, more, more! His head feels like it isn’t there, completely gone, foggy, high in the clouds where the air is thin and his vision is blurry—and all he wants to do is surrender to the sensations.

If he was more aware, maybe Eren would have realised the scents swirling around him isn’t purely his heat, no. And when he slumps forward with a gasp of, “Sorry,” he finally sees the look in his mate’s stare.

Feral.

Eren barely has time to cling to the sheets beneath Levi before the alpha plants his feet on the mattress and fucks upwards, somehow managing to push deeper with each rock of their joined hips.

He’s heard of omega heats beginning after being mated, but an alpha’s rut kicking in too?! That’s not common at all… Not that he’s complaining.

“Ah, slow, slow, please,” he manages to say, only to be met by a low growl against his ear. There’s no way he’s going to be able to convince Levi to slow down with such a potent rut happening at the same time as his heat, shivers spreading across his body.

Fingers twisting into the blankets, Eren clutches tighter, holding on for dear life. His hips are no doubt bruised from being gripped so harshly whilst he’s being fucked, whimpers spilling forth as Levi continues to slam his hips upwards over and over. Even if he wanted to, Eren can’t even comprehend the idea of asking his mate to stop, not when the only sounds leaving his lips are moans and groans of pure delight.

It’s not until he feels Levi shift his hips and drag Eren down harder on his knot that he jolts and jerks his hips upwards, only to be pulled back into place. Zaps of bliss that almost feel painful slap the omega with every grind of his swollen clit, mouth hanging open. Fuck, hng, too much, don’t stop, so goooood…

Tension coiling and bubbling without showing any signs of stopping, Eren tries to give some kind of warning, head shaking as his thighs tremble, trying to squeeze together on either side of his alpha. Already? So soon? But he just—He can’t stop it!

Twisting his hips just right, Eren lets his weight drop down harder. A burst of ecstasy flashes behind his eyes, heat blooming inside, only to gush free a mere moment later. Too far gone in his bliss to realise the mess he’s creating, Eren sobs and drops his face down against Levi’s shoulder, panting, sweat shining upon his skin as his mate continues to fuck his insides until he stiffens with a deep grunt. Another squirt of fluids seeps out of Eren—but it’s not cum, no, that’s locked deep inside of him behind Levi’s knot.

A mouth pushes against the side of his neck, teeth threatening to bite the unmarked skin on the other side, growl rumbling low and deep. Eren can’t help but whimper, an appeasing little noise, as his tail twitches, ears flat upon his head, heartbeat pounding.

All Eren has to do is tip his head back, baring his neck, and he’s immediately bitten again, jerking in surprise at the sharp sting of pain, only to fall limp mere moments later, purring without restraint. His throat must look like a bloodied mess, three bites…

Thankfully, Levi doesn’t clamp down too tightly like before. Maybe finally getting to breed his mate while in rut has cleared his head up a bit? A warm tongue gingerly cleans over the bloodied mark. Eren preens, turning his face so he can rub his cheek against Levi’s ear and hair, scenting at him, each motion reminding him of the engorged knot within.

The blankets cling to his skin, soaked in a mess of the fluids still trickling from between his legs. “Sorry,” he says with a breathy laugh. “Made a mess…”

“I’ll strip the bed after,” Levi responds, voice still deep and raspy. Eren shivers at the timbre of it. The alpha thumbs at his hip bone. “Do you always do that? I’ll have to put a towel down next time so it doesn’t soak through to the mattress.”

Eren shifts, pulling a face at the gross sensation of the sheets clinging to his skin. “No, never happened before,” he admits. Is it because he’s with an alpha? Only during heat? Is it… because he’s got a knot inside of him? Or a combination? Ugh, too many possibilities.

Levi hums. A surprisingly tender hand caresses his chin, gently nudging it upwards until Eren lifts his head. It’s… He wants to look away from his mate’s stare, but he can’t keep avoiding him like that. The alpha tilts his face up, intensely scrutinising his neck.

Levi’s mouth thins into a line as he hums again, lower this time. “I didn’t realise being bitten felt nice.”

Eren can’t help but snort. “I mean, yeah? It’s like being claimed all over again. It’s just… instinctual to feel nice and purr and all that.”

“I’ll properly clean it up later,” Levi promises. And, okay, maybe Eren rumbles happily at those caring words, he can’t help it. When Levi asks with startling concern, “Are you sore anywhere?” Eren blinks at him.

He’s not going to lie. With a half shrug, he says, “I mean, yeah, I’m sore.” Immediately, Levi’s brows dip into a frown. “But a good sore,” Eren clarifies. That manages to clear up Levi’s worried expression, thankfully. “Like you just ran a really long way and your muscles ache, y’know? A good ache.”

“Well, that’s good,” the alpha hums.

Slowly, Eren sits up, straightening his spine out with a groan that his mate matches as he grabs hold of the omega’s waist. Eren blinks, seating himself comfortably on Levi. Well… it might take a while for his knot to go down and he doesn’t want it to be filled with awkward silence…

“Uh… how long do you usually take?”

“To go down?” he clarifies. Eren nods. “Depends. Normally a little under half an hour. But I don’t know how long this one will last since you’re in heat and I’m in rut. Likely longer.”

Over half an hour knotted together? Eren shuffles on his knees, apologising quietly when he hears Levi huff and tighten his grasp on the omega’s waist. Well… this isn’t so bad, he supposes.

Staring at his mate, Eren squirms again. It feels as though he’s being scrutinised, looked over. Maybe it’s just because he hasn’t been looked at like this before, bare and exposed… vulnerable. And, yeah, sure, Levi is his alpha now, but still!

Ducking his head down, Eren returns to hiding his face against the older’s neck, scenting at him. At least he isn’t being watched like this, a hand gently tracing along his backside, up and down.

Swallowing, he asks, “Who is your best friend?”

“Unfortunately, Hange,” he answers with a soft snort. Even though he sounds begrudging, Eren feels like there’s at least some friendliness behind his words. “They just stuck to me and wouldn’t let go. You?”

“Armin, the blonde with me.” He still knows… next to nothing about his mate. “Coffee or tea?”

“Tea, what kind of question is that?”

Eren shrugs and intentionally scrubs his cheek against the side of Levi’s head. “I don’t know, just a random one! It’s your turn now. To ask me something.”

The alpha hums. “Favourite food?”

“Black forest cake.” It’s the first thing that pops into his head! So sweet and delicious…

Levi snorts. “Favourite food, not favourite cavity creator,” he says. Eren thinks he might be rolling his eyes, if he could see them, but he’s too close.

“Fine, fine… cheese hamburger.” Sure, it’s not something fancy like wagyu or truffles or caviar, but it’s simple and tastes good! Maybe he just got used to it from when he was little and always got it for takeout.

“A cheeseburger?” the alpha asks.

“No, no, cheese hamburger.”

“A hamburger with cheese.” Eren nods as he lets out a soft chirrup and intentionally scents his mate. “Easy enough. Mikasa’s mother has introduced my family to katsudon and sushi and now they can’t get enough of it.”

Eren chuckles softly, puffing as he gently kneads his fingers against the pillows and blankets below. This is… nice, being able to talk so comfortably together. He thought he was going to hate this, being stuck with a strange alpha, but… this isn’t so bad. He might even go so far to say it’s been enjoyable.

There’s no stopping Eren’s purr as he stretches one of his legs, chasing off the twinge of a cramp. And when he shifts to scent at the other side of Levi’s face, it’s almost amusing how the alpha tenses up ever so slightly but continues holding him close. Maybe he’s just not used to all the physical contact? Yeah…

“So, like, what are you expecting? From me?”

“Am I supposed to expect something from you?” Levi asks in return. Eren opens his mouth to reply, only for the alpha to snort and cut him off. “Do whatever you want. I’m secure and enjoy my routine. If you want to stay at home, stay. If you want to work, work. Try to avoid making a mess, and when you do eventually make one, clean it up.”

Eren blinks. Again with cleanliness… “Wait… is this why Hange asked me if I’m good at cleaning?”

“They did?” A sigh puffs beside his ear. “Of course they did. I’m very serious about being clean. Not just floors and windows; the skirting, the underside of the chairs, the curtain rails, everywhere.”

Well, alright, Eren can live with that. A little bit of cleanliness can’t hurt. It’s better than filth, at least.

“Yeah, I get that. I’ll be sure to keep things clean,” he says with a smile, head lifting to peer at his mate’s face. Levi might not be a smiley kind of guy, from what he can tell, but he looks relaxed, content, at ease. That’s a win in his book! Then, shuffling his knees and pulling a face at the wet texture beneath them, Eren asks, “And, uh, what about this?”

“We’ll find out if it’s soaked through once my knot goes down and I’ll deal with it then.” After a small pause, Levi then adds on, “And I’ll be keeping a towel at the ready in the future.”

Cheeks flushing pink, Eren nods. And, okay, it might be silly to be getting flustered by the alpha’s implication of future intimate times considering they’re already knotted, but he’s allowed to be embarrassed! The struggle to stay still and wait for it to go down is almost torture when it’s all he can focus on, stuffed full.

The smallest of movements has a soft thrum of pleasure sitting in his stomach. And if he shifts his weight forward, pretending to readjust how he’s sitting, it sparks and grows even more.

Leaning forward, Eren tries to play off scenting at the side of Levi’s face as he grinds forward, struggling to hide the faint tremble in his thighs when he finds just the right amount of pressure and friction. He sighs, sitting back, clenching down around the knot inside of him and feeling it twitch at the same time Levi lets out a sharp breath.

He thinks that maybe he can get away with it, simply moving the tiniest amounts, until he hears Levi ask lowly, “What are you doing?”

“Just… getting comfortable,” he says, smiling.

The look he receives and the disbelieving little, “Uh huh,” gives away how good he is at lying; not at all. “You need to stay still so my knot can go down.” Eren sighs and tips his head back, hiding the way his eyes roll. A hand sinks into his damp hair, gripping onto an ear and tugging till he’s forced to meet Levi’s stare, eyes wide. “After I clean up, I’ll knot you again. Deal?”

“Deal!” Eren answers, no hesitation. His heat is satisfied for now, bitten and knotted, he has time to wait for the tie to go down so they can clean up and put down a towel or two to avoid making another mess for when his desire flares up again.

And judging by the low growl-purr he gets in response to the little scenting sessions he showers upon his mate, Levi certainly isn’t disappointed by their arranged marriage. Sure, it might take some time getting used to this new house and learning about each other, but when Eren limps through the wrong door to clean himself up, Levi fondly shakes his head, snorts, and shows him the right way.

He’s certainly not complaining. He’s damn lucky to be mated to Levi; no alpha can make him smile one moment and then whine and beg for his knot the next. If they’d been introduced to one another sooner, Eren feels as though it would’ve had the same end result; spending the rest of his heat week getting knotted over and over until his legs are too shaky to stand.

Reminder; thank parents for setting them up. But, for now, he’s going to enjoy their honeymoon…