His chest is broad and solid, muscles clearly defined even at rest. My omega instincts react instantly, sharp and unexpected, a pulse of want flickering through my body.
I want to touch him.
The realization hits me so hard it makes my stomach lurch.
I squeeze my hands into fists, nails biting into my palms. This isn't supposed to be happening. My instincts have been muted for weeks.
Why are they awake now?
"Oh no," I whisper, mortified. "I'm—something's wrong with me."
Malcolm's brow furrows. "Vee?"
"I shouldn't be feeling this. I'm going to be in so much trouble."
The panic overwhelms me completely. My body folds inward, knees buckling slightly as a small, broken sound slips out of my throat.
Alex catches me easily, pulling me against his chest.
His arms wrap around me, firm and secure, and he starts purring.
It's deep and strong, vibrating through me like a steady anchor, and my omega instincts surge toward it instantly, desperate and relieved. I cling to him without thinking, pressing my face into his shirt as the sound wraps around my nervous system.
"It's okay," he murmurs over the purr. "You're okay."
Finn moves closer, hands gentle as they smooth over my hair and back. Malcolm steps in on my other side, his warmth radiating, presence solid and protective.
The three of them surround me without trapping me.
I whine softly, the sound slipping out before I can stop it.
Alex's purr deepens in response.
"There you go. Let it out."
I bury myself against him, shaking as the fear drains out in uneven waves. Something inside meshifts—uncoiling, waking up fully—and I realize my suppression feels thinner.
Like it's breaking through instead of crushing everything flat.
I feel like an omega again.
The realization is both comforting and terrifying.
I cling harder, my body seeking the steady reassurance of Alex’s chest, his heartbeat, his purr. Finn’s hand remains in my hair, slow and careful. Malcolm’s presence looms close, solid as a wall.
“Good,” Alex murmurs when my breathing finally starts to slow. “That’s it.”
I sniff, exhausted and embarrassed, and pull back just enough to look at them. My face feels hot and tight with tears.
“I didn’t go home,” I say weakly.
Finn nods. “We know.”
Alex shifts slightly, still holding me. “Do you want to check your phone?”
The suggestion makes my stomach clench again, but I nod. I go back for my hoodie, fingers shaking so badly I fumble twice before managing to fish my phone from the pocket.
No missed calls.
