Thinking of Bright's unfortunate past has his thoughts circling back to Mew and his own problems, something Gulf has been trying his best to avoid. Anyways, he will be badgered on this topic in a few minutes when his well-meaning friends arrive.

The forlorn alpha worries his lip, contemplating whether his situation would end up the same way as Bright. Not the 'getting stabbed in the back' part but the whole emotionally destroyed at the end of a relationship part. Gulf knew Bright and Pam started out deeply in love and happy. For fuck's sake, they were potential mates too! What went so wrong that everything turned into this- this catastrophic level of incorrigible mess?

Can- will this happen to him as well?

No. No way. He and Mew are true mates which means the success rate is one hundred percent if they choose to pursue a romantic relationship and by putting forth their best efforts.

B-but what if it still doesn't work out?

Gulf is hardly an expert in maintaining good bonds with others. He never even had to chase after someone. A flick of his hands, an intense look or a suggestive smile was sufficient in the past to get him whoever he wants in his bed. It is not the case here and he also never wants to treat his mate in such a manner. Mew deserves everything good and perfect in this world, deserves to be treated like a prince and blessing the omega truly is. Yet, is Gulf capable of keeping Mew happy in the long run ... when he doesn't even have a clue on how to follow simple rituals needed to gain his permission for courtship?

Can Gulf survive if Mew rejects him after agreeing to give him a chance only to find Gulf lacking? Will he turn into another Bright in that case?

He knows one thing for sure. Broken hearted or not, Gulf would never be able to put on a poker face and mingle among his couple friends if Mew turns him down. The last few weeks have taught him that! As it is, Bright manages a few short hours every few weeks near them and if it had been Gulf, he would be AWOL for couple of months straight.

~

Years passed and their memory of Bright's bad break up faded, yet the alpha remained aloof to the advances and courtship attempts from interested parties. In between his new busy schedule of work, work and more work, Bright squeezed in some time for them – hanging around only long enough to catch up before hurrying back to work some more.

If not for Win and his chic company slowly thawing the icy walls that match Bright's new personality, Gulf would have considered the pensive alpha as a lost case.

Funny thing is, Bright still managed to play the dutiful host during his rare outings in corporate parties extremely well, irrespective of his hatred for spotlight. Hell, the morose alpha all but disappeared from public eye – preferring to let his work and subsequent profits speak for itself – only attending mandatory board meetings and business gatherings that cannot be escaped without affecting the image of Chivaaree industries.

Hmm, if only he was more like Bright - effortlessly pulling off politely charming and modest gentleman airs, near new people and without releasing 'approach me at your own risk' vibes – then Gulf wouldn't be wasting time, second-guessing his approach right now. He'd have confidently pursued his mate and even succeeded in seducing him. Instead, what he did is make blunder after blunders, ruining a perfect opportunity to cast a good impression on Mew and scaring him into hiding indoors until they left the premises.

Singto is right. He really needed lessons on how to court and woo an omega, particularly someone who isn't enamored by his riches or powerful status. Which makes it ten-times harder because he never had to chase after someone before and certainly not where it is non-negotiate for Gulf to give up.

He sighs, turning towards the open area where a gigantic table has been set by his staff under his instructions. The arrangements are ninety-five percent done. Remaining stuff is too paltry for his involvement anyway. His friends will be arriving soon, thanks to P'Sing and his quick thinking.

Needs to cast aside his botched conversation with Bright until he could divulge the particulars to Singto in private. Has to cover up the melancholy battling against his conscience, criticizing him for stepping out of bounds and probably wrecking Win's shot at happiness for good. Gulf could barely handle the thought of facing a chirpy Win when the naïve omega arrives for dinner, let alone act normally around him.

Somehow, he is gonna have to put on his best performance and hide the effects of his dismal confrontation with Bright. At least, until he and Singto manage to come up with a damn good counter attack to Bright's stubborn stance.

<*>

In a matter of two hours after leaving the Sun & Sunflower cafe, P'Singto rounds up all their friends (those in the know about Gulf's mate) for a spontaneous dinner party slash brainstorming session of sorts at Gulf's house.

Despite the sudden plans on a Friday night, everyone is happy to converge at hearing the good news and eager to learn more. P'Singto personally picks up his boyfriend, Ohm from his college dorm in the interim, when Gulf was busy organizing dinner plans and a possible sleepover to accommodate their guests. Mild and Boat are the first pair to arrive followed by N'Win carrying a huge assortment of desserts.

Pretty soon, the original eight members of the 'Find Gulf's True Mate' group are gathered around the large dining table loaded with delicious dishes on the second floor open terrace balcony of Gulf's stylish mansion. Some guys like P'Off, Tay, Boat and Mild are happy to multitask, stuffing themselves while participating in the demanding conversation. The rest, however are too thrilled to do more than pick at their food and listen to Gulf and P'Singto take turns narrating their gripping encounter.

Their reach the plot twist in their narration – the jaw dropping reveal sure to wow the audience and the result is just as expected – shocked exclamations and joyous congratulations offered in a din of simultaneous hoots.

"Oi, let me get this straight," Mild begins once they're done with the reveal, his wide salacious grins promising trouble for Gulf.

Here it goes. The insufferable 'I-told-you-so' and constant lording over from Mild, Gulf rolls his eyes preparing himself.

"You found your mate, THE mysterious omega, you and we all were desperately searching for weeks in the café – in the SAME PLACE – I tried to drag you a few weeks back!"

And yup, sure enough, there it comes.

"I TOLD YOU!" The hyperactive beta crows while jabbing his fists victoriously in the air. "I told you that day ... to visit the café with me. But did you listen? No. Of course not! You do realise Gulf, if you had just followed me inside that day or better yet, let me go and order, then you would have met your mate weeks sooner?!"

Gulf sighs in defeat. What else can he do? They're all correct, after all and they know it.

"Yeah, P'Gulf. Should have listened to the wise Sensei, Mild from the start!" Earth jokes and the rest of their friends good-naturedly poke fun at Gulf.

P'Off joins in the ribbing too. "See, if only you guys listened to my plan from the start- OW!" He pouts, rubbing at his shoulder where his petite boyfriend struck him. "What did I do this time?"

"Papi, I told you to stop bringing up that harebrain idea of yours. It is stupid and not to mention dangerous." Gun explains patiently, pushing up the bridge of his spectacles.

"But you guys didn't even hear me complete..."

"NO" They all exclaim as one in varying tones of resignation.

Rolling his eyes, Off ignores their sensible protests as usual. "Actually, I'm ABOUT to say how this whole 'Gulf should have listened to Mild' debate would have been invalid if we shared the omega's picture with the rest of our friends. Boat here would have informed us sooner that we didn't need to search far and wide."

"Ah, that's- um, yeah. P'Off is actually right ... for once." New seems to have trouble admitting it.

P'Gun nods. "Imagine that! If Papi turned into the voice of reason among us then doomsday sure is nearby."

"HEY!"

~

Gulf cannot resist chuckling at the antics of his friends. The air of tension hovering over his head like a dark cloud dissipates under the support and gentle teasing from his circle of loved ones. The fears plaguing his mind seem far and ludicrous in comparison to half-hour ago when Gulf was alone and brooding by himself.

He should have let his friends in sooner. They are his safety net. Besides, Gulf is going to need their continued wisdom since he plans to follow the courting process to the T. Hiding away his insecurity and jitters is not going to aid him – he needs to embrace the reality and accept the unconditional help his loyal friends are willing to offer him.

Yes, no more sulking around or indulging in self-pity parties.

N'Win, in the interim, leans over from his place appearing ecstatic as he faithfully supports Gulf, which only serves to make the alpha's simmering guilt worse. "Ah, but P'Gulf finally found his mate. That's the only thing we should focus on. What's meant to be will always find a way back home. I'm so happy for you Phi."

He gulps, unable to face the innocent face beaming at him. Merely slants his head and whispers a discreet thanks in return. Suddenly Bright's harsh rejection reverbete in his ears, making Gulf determined to hunt down his best friend at the earliest and get him to change his mind.

How dare he allow this sweet rabbit-faced kid to suffer in silence for so long?

Not anymore, Gulf promises. For Win's sake and also for himself to be worthy of gaining a chance at happiness with Mew, Gulf's going to do something about this! He needs to prove that he isn't a heartless bastard as the outside world believes him to be...

"Wait. So, is no one really thanking me for making this happen then?" P'Singto suddenly interjects, playful with an adorable pout.

Gulf jolts from his musings and pays attention to his surroundings, missing P'Gun's curious gaze. Meanwhile, Boat holds a puzzled frown as he follows their conversation, truly unaware of their search for Mew and its significance. Not that anyone can blame him. Boat would have helped them eons ago if only they were smart enough to include him in their quest as well. Or showed Mew's cctv snapshot because Boat is a regular customer at Sun & Sunflower café – P'Off is indeed right.

"Oh, you definitely did good, Khun Phi." Ohm has a besotted look in his face as he gazes at his true mate. Singto preens like a proud bird under his boyfriend's attention.

Where before watching these two love birds caused a bitter incision to spring free in Gulf's gut, there is nothing but appreciation and joy in its place now. Also a chaotic optimism that one day, it could be Mew and Gulf being similarly lovey-dovey with each other before their friends...

"There's more," Singto slyly adds waiting for a 'go ahead' signal from Gulf. The second he receives it (because why the fuck not?) the bubbly alpha is off instantly launching a thorough explanation – as to how Gulf nearly screwed up his own chances with the startled omega.

"You see, someone here thought it would be a genius move to grab an unsuspecting omega-"

"WHAT?!"

Yeah ... he forgot this part will be up for discussion as well.

Right, maybe Gulf should take a leaf from Bright's notebook and start touring the world. It is the only way to escape the merciless trolling his friends are prone to dish out over the next foreseeable future.

Gulf is glad for not being the one to repeat his blunders to the table at large. Bad enough he was planning to do so with Bright and got side-tracked in the last second. Hearing the scandalous gasps and frustrated shaking from his friends, he felt reduced to three-feet in shame.

"Oh no... Gulf, you didn't!" New's eyes resemble saucers and his partner, Tay isn't faring any better. Both of them wore identically stunned expressions. Next to them, Earth frowns in disapproval – his baby features and short stature makes it an even deadly combination to be on the receiving end of. Even Win is disappointed once Singto finishes narrating the events at the café.

"I thought I was dreaming!" Gulf's ears have turned red by now in embarrassment.

Mild squints in bewilderment even as Boat sagely nods, "Ah, you needed to make sure he's real."

"Yes! Exactly."

Finally, someone who gets his weird logic. Although, Gulf admits he should have let go immediately once he realized his mate is very much real and not a figment of his desperate dreams. Shouldn't have waited like a dumbass until a panicked Mew's scent registered along with his timid plea.

Fuck, he really is an idiot!

Shaking his head in disbelief even P'Off has something to add. "Come on Gulfie, even I knew better than to act that way towards an omega. Had I pulled that stunt with Gun when we are relative strangers, I would have gotten castrated faster than I could blink."

P'Gun solemnly nods. "True. If some random alpha got cocky with me enough to get handsy over my scent glands, I would have ripped his balls off and shoved them down his throat." The omega purses his lips. "What did your Mew do? Obviously he didn't cause a ruckus and scream bloody murder ... or you guys would have started with it first."

Before either Gulf or Singto could respond, however, Ohm tacks on an important query that has him instantly earning Gulf's renewed respect and trust.

"Is he- er, Mew, okay? You guys didn't scare him too badly, right?"

"No, um, I-" Gulf begins.

OH NO! Did he scare his mate that badly? Like scare him-scare him into thinking Gulf is bad news? Why the fuck didn't he think of this earlier?

"Mew's fine." Singto steps in when it becomes obvious Gulf is not going to offer anything further. "Relax Gulf, we can hear you panicking like it's the end of the world."

"It is the end of the world for me if I managed to scare off my mate from the get-go."

"No, you didn't. At least, it wasn't that bad because his badass friend, Saint would have kicked us out, profitable customers or not. So, don't fret too much about it. Just make sure to up your game next time and you'll be good to go." P'Singto confidently reassures him.

Ohm doesn't look too convinced, although Mild seems to share the positive attitude along with Tay and P'Off after Singto's words. Boat, on the other hand is back to devouring his precious chicken drumsticks and swiftly ignores their exchange.

"Hmm," Gulf bites his lips in thought, already coming up with ways to redeem himself in front of Mew for their next interaction.

~

The omegas in their group are of different mind when it came to this matter. They certainly don't seem to share the same optimism of the alphas, which Gulf finds quite disheartening to say the least.

Earth clasps fingers under his chin, pale pink lips thinned in censure. "It is a scary thought to even imagine being in your Mew's position. No offence P'Gulf but if it had been me in his place – mate or not, I would have given the alpha hell for daring to take liberties with me. I mean, as an omega despite my privileged status, I'm constantly on lookout for any creeps who think they can pull a fast one on me."

New pats Earth's shoulder, a wry smile breaking out. "I know exactly what you mean. Poor guy, he must have been freaked out to be ambushed like that ... in his workplace, no less."

"I didn't mean to frighten him," Gulf points out.

His excuses (for the lack of a better word) are starting to sound repetitive and useless, even to his own ears. "I- I just couldn't let him walk away from me again..."

Win is gentle and patient as though explaining a simple concept to an extremely stupid person. Which Gulf is starting to believe he is, at least where his true mate is concerned. Still, Win's clarification knocks him down a peg and throws him for a loop.

"Phi, I know you didn't mean to surprise your mate like that. You probably weren't even thinking about the connotations of your move to grab his hand. But the thing is P'Gulf, we omegas tend to face er, certain sleazy behavior from couple of arrogant alphas every now and then, who clearly think we are easy targets for such conduct merely because of our biology."

"Yeah. Even if our society has long evolved since the horrifying days of treating omegas purely as breeding stock or toys for alphas to play with, it doesn't mean we are completely safe either." P'Gun adds his ten cents.

"No..." Gulf is appalled. Could feel his face turning sickly green at the implications behind those matter-of-fact statements. "I didn't thi- I didn't know..."

"Ai'Gulf, you weren't the same as those predators though," Mild jumps to his defense. "Sides, Singto explained off your mistake as lack of awareness which your mate and his friends seemed to have brought it. Why are you guys making such a big deal out of a simple and honest mistake?"

"Because genuine mistake or not, it still affects a person! P'Mild, do you have any idea how traumatizing it is to have a random knot-head treat you as if you're his personal plaything just cause you happen to be an omega?" Earth argues, cheeks flushing in anger.

"Of course, I understand." Mild yells back, equally irate. "I may not be part of the highly coveted omega population but us, betas are not entirely exempt from getting hit on by shady assholes either. It still doesn't explain why you lot are clubbing Gulf into this category. So, he made a mistake. In his defense, Gulf lost the chance to meet his mate several times before ... can't blame this guy for making a fool out of himself. Besides, they are true mates! This Mew needs a little time to realise this face and then, boom! Gulf will get his happily ever after within no time."

"That doesn't change the fact-" P'Gun hotly begins, needing to expand the stance Earth failed to make the beta comprehend.

Ohm, who had mostly kept quiet until then, speaks up. And boy, does the giant-puppy alpha knows how to hit the nail through the coffin with his no-nonsense style of speech. He would definitely make one hell of a lawyer someday!

There was an outbreak of murmurs since New and Earth first vocalized their sympathy for Mew's plight. Alphas and omegas naturally picked different sides owning mostly to their biased perception of the events while the betas mostly remained neutral. Or till Mild ran his mouth and instigated a min-war.

"Mm. It is quite evident to see how your rich and privileged lifestyle has made you blind to so many factors of our common folks' reality. Because, surprise-surprise you all keep missing the point here."

"Which is ...?" Tay crooks his head to a side.

"P'Gulf made a huge blunder, yes. Mew is either going to steer clear of him or believe the excuse these two made to cover up his slip. Also, by all accounts it appears they both are true mates. But none of this changes the fact that whatever happens next ... it will depend entirely on Mew and his choices."

Mild and P'Off simultaneously parrot. "What do you mean?"

Singto answers instead of his boyfriend, glancing at Ohm with a tiny smile gracing his lips. "It means ... Mew could still choose someone else to be paired with irrespective of Gulf being his true mate."

"Why would he do that?" Again, the chaotic duo is in sync.

"Because," Earth bangs the table with his both fists, glad to be the person to drive this point across fucking finally. "When faced with a choice, omegas will always and I mean, ALWAYS, choose the individuals who treat us courteously and with utmost respect over those who give us the vagabond treatment."

Win hesitantly concedes. "Erm, yeah ... er, this is partly why I was immediately so taken with P'Bright when I first met him. Um, I mean, don't get me wrong – you guys were all pretty great to me. But P'Bai was something else entirely; his behavior towards me is extremely kind and generous befitting that of a prince ..."

His heart sinks at the reverence shining from Win's when speaking about Bright. Sooner or later, he has to own up to the fiasco of his impulsive whims near the Nong...

"Yeah," Gulf finally breaks his silence. "I, er, kind of know this is a possibility... My mate is simply too amazing and irresistible to be single and not have a legion of admirers or even have a special someone whom he's interested in. I intend to fight for my chance and prove my worth to him – however long it takes. Even- even if Mew rejects me, I'm ... I'm fine with remaining by the sidelines to look out for him from a safe distance. Whatever makes him happy ... is enough for me."

"Even if he chooses someone else over you? Will you still be alright with his decision and respect it?" Boat asks, a wrinkle between his eyes.

"Yes."

Gulf doesn't have to think twice. Though it might kill him to see his mate in another person's arms, if it makes his Mew happy, then Gulf will be fucking okay with it, period.

"Well, shit."

Yeah, Mild summarizes it right. Well, shit ... indeed!

<*>

The rest of the dinner passes by in relative bubble of humor without any major incidents or debates.

As expected, every person had something innovative to offer Gulf in terms of suggestions to woo Mew. They decide to hold off from informing about Mew to the rest of the gang until they see some positive results. Gulf didn't want anyone to spook his omega mate with too much attention, as their well-meaning but ultimately too enthusiastic friends are prone to do. Singto's proposed plan is met with a chorus of approvals and enthusiasm. Ohm easily agrees to spend their Sunday date at the Sun & Sunflower café casing out the place and befriending Mew properly this time.

By the time dinner is nearing to an end, Gulf's stressful headspace swings back to serenity from paranoia akin to a functioning pendulum at sharp noon.

"You'll win him over, Gulf. Don't fret too much." New points a fork in his direction, nodding profusely.

Win holds out his fists and cheers. "Susu Na Phi. You can do it!"

"Yeah. Just make sure you don't accidentally scent-mark the poor guy next time you meet or do anything equally crazy and you'll actually stand a chance." Singto has the audacity to add cheekily.

"Eh, I second that."

"Try speaking with him instead."

Tay and P'Gun respond around the same time drawing laughter from their group. He tries to glare menacingly at his suicidal friends but ends up joining them. The lovelorn alpha has always been a good sport when it comes to admitting his mistakes and laughing at his own follies. So, Gulf leans back and embraces his involuntary stupidity where his beautiful omega mate, Mew is concerned.

After all, once his friends meet him they will automatically get why Gulf's brain short-circuits around this amazingly perfect guy!

~

Everything is going fine – P'Off is up to his typical shenanigans, Ohm and Singto are canoodling as though it was going out of fashion, while Earth is updating the rest about his new boyfriend. Boat and Mild are in their own foodie world with TayNew couple bantering in the corner as always – when things abruptly go to hell.

Gulf would have totally missed Win's blanched expression if it weren't for Mild's nosiness and P'Off's notoriety for drawing attention to the exact stuff his mate tries to hide. Oddly, P'Gun also appeared to be bothered for some reason.

"The HELL is this idiot up to?" Mild yells at his phone screen, right as P'Off loudly questions P'Gun, trying to squint at the omega's averted phone. "What is it?"

Gulf distracted by the sudden bombarding turns away from his conversation with Earth to see a distressed Win attempting to hold himself together and barely succeeding. The protective instincts of an alpha flare up at the sight of his Nong, a young omega visibly upset and trying to hide it.

"What happened?" He asks, a thread of authority automatically exuding in his scent even as a sickening feeling fills in his stomach.

A quick glimpse and calculation of their prior moments reveals the twin pings of notification that caused this abrupt change in their friends' demeanor. P'Gun has a perfect poker face – giving nothing away, if not for P'Off's intimate knowledge of his mate's micro-expressions, Gulf would have easily believed nothing is amiss.

"Um, nothing." Win squeaks, a suspicious sheen visible in his eyes now.

"Nothing my ass!" Mild grumbles, still vivid and glaring at his phone. P'Off apparently got smacked for his efforts to spy on P'Gun's phone because he perks up in Mild's direction, hoping to get answers from someone.

P'Gun carefully hums. "It isn't really any of our business."

Alright, Gulf can connect the dots and right now these breadcrumbs are leading to a very telling destination. Nevertheless, he wants to confirm before hunting down a particular friend of his and extracting revenge.

"What are those notifications about?" He asks the only person who's willing to share with the class.

The beta straight away complies. "Insta updates from our dear Bright's account. Can you believe it? He couldn't make time for us, always citing a busy schedule and previously engaged plans but can somehow manage private dinners with other flirtatious omegas. Pfft, that idiot hardly maintains a social media presence yet suddenly is alright with posting a selfie! Good thing, I kept alerts for activity on his account. A goddamn selfie with an omega, shia!"

"Oh. Anyone we know?" P'Off asks, clueless.

An accurately targeted kick, thud and a subsequent 'AOW' echoes over the silent table. Everyone else with the exception of Ohm awkwardly winces and avoids staring at a subdued Win.

Breathing deeply and slowly counting to ten, Gulf does his best to regulate his temper before pulling out his own phone to check. In the background, Win seems to be reassuring others he's fine and others are mutedly catching Ohm up to speed about the 'will they - won't they' BrightWin situation. Speaking of which, he looks up and finds Singto staring at him in an accessing way.

Right ... that astute alpha might resemble a puppy but he doesn't miss a damn thing.

Hunched down, Gulf thumbs through the scroll of apps to select the small pinkish square icon. The seconds it takes for the app to load and navigate to Bright's account is an exercise in restraint. Particularly since Gulf is currently attuned to the quivering voice of his dejected Nong, which is coming through with crystal clearness even in midst of this backdrop of chatter.

"I guess- er, it's probably just a fr-friendly dinner with a- an old friend, r-right?" Win is obviously having trouble even voicing out this simple query.

A sickly scent of an anguished omega hits him hard and Gulf swallows the waves of rising fury (both at himself and bright for causing this) and focuses his resentment on surveying the present battlefield.

The first thing Gulf notices upon clicking the present mayhem sparking post tagged under 'V.Chivre' is the fucking wide smile Bright sports as he stares right at the damn camera lens. This is the same alpha, who purposefully spelled his name wrong and selected private settings to ensure his Instagram account remains a secret, secure from any desperate fans hell-bent on shadowing his online profile.

The next thing he registers is the fairly attractive guy next to the usually poker-faced alpha – this person feels vaguely familiar though Gulf couldn't pick out his name from memory – Bright's hand casually thrown across the omega's shoulders and their proximity. (He couldn't really tell the guy's secondary gender through this snapshot but Mild must have known him personally to be able to confidently mention his omega status.) His blood boils at the caption posted along with this picture. Gulf takes in the entire tableau again – with a cynical set of eyes this time round – to guarantee he isn't misinterpreting or missing anything vital due to the red haze clouding his vision.

Captioned 'Dinner date with a dear friend' and a fucking heart symbol (granted, it is only a yellow heart but come on!), the background of this incriminating close-up picture boasts a sneak peek of low-romantic setting from a corner of some upscale Italian restaurant and a table clearly set for an intimate dinner.

So much for Gulf thinking Bright is at a business dinner or out of country due to work, huh.

Suddenly, Mild's indignant outburst makes a lot of sense. Hell, he wants to scream too. Maybe break some cutlery to let off his steam. Bright hardly ever uses social media platforms (only signing up for them under their friends combined pressure) let alone uploads any personal posts or TEXTS with emoticons! To break his own rules in this manner by adding a 'heart' emoji no less – it is a very cruel and unusual thing for Bright to do. Gulf knows what triggered this abnormal display of personal information. Aware he is guilty of pushing Bright too far ... only for the defensive alpha to snap back and react adversely. Yet, it still irks him that Bright chose this method out of the available (passive) options to retaliate.

"Hey, I'm sure it isn't anything like you fear, Win. I mean ... First is Bright's Nong and the son of a family friend too. It isn't out of ordinary for them to occasionally have dinner and catch up, y'know. Besides, if there's one thing we all know about Bright, it's that he is really a good Phi to his juniors."

"Yeah..." Win still sounds unsure, but at least the thick sense of despair in his scent slowly subsides and the usual pleasant cherry-ish whiff returns.

Tay's reply successfully staves off a potential breakdown from two of their friends. Mild – out of rage fueled by the knowledge Bright is aware of his matchmaking attempts and Win – out of heartbreak induced grief, although he is ignorant of the real truth regarding Bright's intentions.

Meanwhile, Gulf absorbs this truckload of information. One thought pertains which acts as a domino effect for dredging up other relevant details.

Ah, so this guy is First.

He studies the omega on the screen carefully. Has heard Bright mention the name in the passing couple of times but never paid any heed to it before. Knows offhandedly that First is the son of Mrs. Chivaaree's close friend and Bright's Nong by extension. Recalls thinking First must be holding a torch for Bright from the few tales his best friend shared over the years, yet soon dismissed them because ... well, who doesn't?

Now though ... realizes his mistake in ignoring the existence of this guy. Shrewd dark eyes track the way this shorter omega is leaning heavily by Bright's side, broad lips stretched in a wide, jubilant smile and his neck subtly bared in a show of submission, tilted invitingly to the side, as though in display of his willingness to accept Bright's claiming bite ...

Fuck. How the hell did Gulf miss the signs of this omega seriously chasing after Bright? Generally, he is quite good at noticing when someone's got nefarious schemes for trapping his reserved friend. Prides himself in getting Bright out of tight spots often where his raving fans are concerned. Since the other introvert alpha is quite bad at offending people (from leaving him alone) in spite of his grumpy attitude and formidable scowls.

Yet ... and yet, this First slipped past Gulf's defensive barriers like fish evades capture in a wild stream.

As a family friend's son, this guy has access to Bright's life that is strictly locked away from public. As his Nong too, this omega certainly took advantage of the unsuspecting alpha's kindness and natural protective instincts to keep in touch through the years – Gulf should've fucking pointed out the fakeness of several requests made by First, the few times Bright had excused to attend to the younger guy's pleas. In fact, he doubts whether Bright is aware of the omega's true intentions when agreeing to his dinner invitation tonight – although, if there's anything that he learnt today, it's that Bright isn't as oblivious as he pretends to be.

Except, maybe posting an ambiguous note (when you didn't have a habit of announcing the updates of your life on Instagram) about First when he is (already & not so secretly) crushing on you just to avoid giving false hope to Win sounds like a really bad move on Bright's part. A calculated risk that will likely blow up in Bright's face sooner or later, and Gulf isn't feeling particularly charitable enough to step in and save him ... at least, not tonight.

However, it is clear P'Singto might have something to say about that.

The questioning glances have only intensified and he can only squirm under that heavy, soul-piercing gaze for so long before breaking down and spilling the beans. For Win's sake, Gulf is ready to work with Singto to find a solution to shatter Bright's reservations, whatever they might be. If he still continues to be a jerk, then maybe it wouldn't hurt to encourage Win to give their 'Make-Bright-hella-Jealous' plan a go and enjoy watching their friend go mad with envy.

A little preview of what's it like to lose Win to another alpha should be sufficient to set the noble idiot's priorities straight!

Nevertheless, Bright is soon going to realise he jumped from the frying pan into fire (with or without his interference) when First makes his move. And Gulf would love to have front row seats when the damning epiphany finally hits!

<*>

The hours dwindled under the canopy of smog filled skies and scattered stars, conversations flowing from one topic to another as food and drink disappeared in between the unrestrained chaos of their impromptu party.

Tay and New are first to excuse themselves once the short hand on the clock crossed past ten, followed by Win and Earth and later the Boat-Mild couple. They refused the offer of guest rooms for various reasons and only remaining behind to iron out certain details regarding Singto's plan before they left for their homes.

Mild wanted to stay, he badly did, except Boat had other ideas and quickly convinced his energetic beta mate to leave with him. "Ai'Gulf, you better pick up my call tomorrow. Don't you dare ignore me now that you've got a mate to court!"

"Yeah, sure. And don't you dare do anything stupid, now that I've actually got someone I want to impress!" Gulf retorts with a fond eye-roll. He waves off the bird Mild flips at him and busies himself in properly escorting the younger omegas to their cars.

He especially pays close attention to Win, checks if the downcast omega is alright after the unexpected events of tonight. The too-innocent-for-this-world Nong simply shrugs, smile a pale imitation of his previous beams.

"I'm fine, Phi." Win repeats, secure from the driver's seat of his silver Mercedes. "Besides, Earth and P'Tay are right. First has been P'Bright's Nong a lot longer than me. I have no right to be u-upset about them having dinner plans. Just the two of them at a cozy restaurant... "

"Bright's an idiot." Gulf stuffs both hands in his pant pockets to avoid punching something. "A big, blind idiot."

Win snorts and Gulf gradually exhales, tension unwinding from his shoulders at the first glimpse of real smile in his Nong's face after Bright's (targeted) post. "No, he's not. Umm. Okay.... Maybe, he's just a little slow on the uptake."

"Hmm. Perhaps."

Gulf couldn't say anything more without giving himself away. So he doesn't and hates himself for it. In the end, the mortified alpha chickened out from coming clean to Win about Bright's rejection. (Temporary rejection! Because Gulf WILL personally drag Bright's head out of the denial swamp if necessary!) But it is well worth it to see the slowly recovering omega regain his confidence and bounce back from the nearly shattering blow to his heart.

Almost.

~

"Anything you wish to announce or get off your chest, Gulf?" P'Singto corners him the instant Win leaves.

Their company is reduced to just five members now with OffGun and OhmSingto couples opting to stick around for longer. Gulf's glad regarding the reduced members when it appears he'll have to openly admit to his second debacle of the day.

"Nothing gets by you, does it Simba?" He tries to stall for time, debating whether to delve into this matter with P'Gun present or not.

On one hand, the older omega could finally shed some light on Bright's dodgy behavior near Win, provided they manage to persuade him into parting with the stubborn alpha's secrets. On the other hand, it feels far too much like stabbing his best friend's back by approaching P'Gun, when it is clear that for whatever reasons Bright isn't too comfortable with sharing the same details with Gulf and others.

"No," Singto leans against a plush armchair of the cards table, crossing his arms (having relocated to the third floor's recreational room after their friends left) and tolerantly waits him out. "No, it doesn't. But then again, you have been pretty irresponsible and reckless lately, Gulf. So, it wouldn't surprise me if you did do something that you're not supposed to ... like poking a sleeping wolf, who is be better off left alone."

"This is interesting," P'Off rubs his hands together, snickering. "I wonder if this dig's got anything to do with our resident lone wolf." P'Gun on the other hand reacts in the polar opposite manner, turning pensive and quiet as a shadow in his seat.

Gulf deliberates whether to play dumb when it becomes obvious P'Gun knows more than he's letting on, judging by his incessant silence whenever Bright's topic comes around these days. In the end, the matter is taken out of his hands when Ohm unnervingly makes another accurate observation.

"Em, I don't think Gulf should be necessarily blamed based on his recent behavior. I admit to hardly knowing him, yet it is clear his actions are spurned on by his fight or flight instincts due to the uncertainty of his mate situation. It is a pretty common reaction for alphas who have recently met their true mates but are yet to initiate the bonding process."

"Alai wa?" They chorus in astonishment and shades of disbelief.

The tall boyish alpha grins at their dubious faces. "Well, I have an entire subject on 'Mate bonds and its lawsuits' in my law course that specifically caters to the whole category of 'who, what and which' kinds of actions can be held accountable under the duress of these types of situations. Y'know, people reacting uncharacteristically to their original personalities upon discovering their mates, true and potential ones, resorting to stalking or harassing them under the influence of their hormone fluctuations..."

Ohm lets out another amused snort when they still continue to remain surprised. "Seriously? You guys didn't learn anything about this in college? Okay, maybe not in detail like we do in our department but surely, it came up in home education or mandatory health classes, right?"

"Mai Krub, we just had the basic concepts of secondary gender education explained – the same as you had in high-school." Singto clarifies.

P'Off however asks, baffled. "You guys had secondary gender education classes?"

"Papi, you had one too. Except, you always slept in and kept ditching the class." P'Gun shakes his head.

"Oh."

"Seriously though," P'Singto places his hands on the table, unconsciously tapping the hard surface with his fingers. "Did you say or do anything that resulted in Bright's unusual post tonight?"

The three alphas in the room wait with a bated breath for his response except for P'Gun. Again, Gulf tracks the shorter omega's carefully crafted poker face and forced disinterest in the proceedings.

Well, it is now or never. And Gulf's already on fire tonight when it came to making rash decisions, anyways. "Mm. Something like that."

"Ai'Gulf, what did you do?"

"Shia!"

Ignores the swift outbursts to give a brief rundown of what took place on his call with Bright. "I tried to trick Bright into revealing his feelings for Win and as it turns out, he is already aware of our efforts to play cupid for them. Point-blank told me to back off and quit encouraging Win that he has a chance."

"Huh. I suppose, that's where the selfie and misleading caption comes in then." P'Singto calmly reacts, rubbing his chin. The dusky alpha wasn't too fazed by Bright's resistance. This could only mean he might have either expected this outcome or had a similar conversation with Bright previously.

"Hmm," Gulf chews on his lower lip before saying 'fuck it'. "Bright didn't outright say he's not interested in Win or deny they are potential mates. In fact, what I gathered from his repeated objections is that he's still hung over Pam."

P'Off gawks. "Alai wa? Why would Bright still not be over that beta girl? Really? It has been what – five or six years now. Didn't you say their breakup was really horrible – stuff of nightmares?" He turns to his mate and receives a death glare for his efforts.

Ohm fascinatingly following their exchange interrupts with a question of his own. "Hey, was that super busy alpha I video-chatted with the other day is the same Bright you guys are talking about, right?" Receiving a positive affirmation from his boyfriend, he continues thoughtfully. "Huh, so did Bright actually mean he's not over his ex-girlfriend or um, rather the issues surrounding their fallout? 'Cause, P'Off did just mention it wasn't a clean, healthy breakup..."

Yes. Thank you, Ohm for giving the best damn opening one could ask for!

"Yeah." Gulf drawls, throwing caution to the winds and addresses P'Gun.

"Say Phi, you wouldn't happen to know the answer to Ohm's question, do you? After all, Bright holds you in high regard and always comes to you when he needs advice. Oh and let's not forget, how you were suspiciously quiet whenever we teased Win about Bright and made plans to get them together."

Singto quirks his brow high, enough to disappear under his fringe of black hair. P'Off swivels around to stare consecutively at both Gulf and his mate in shock. Ohm, however, seems to be thoroughly enjoying the drama. The air of anticipation for the omega's reply is palpable and thick enough to cut with a knife.

Huffing, Gun begins to fiddle with the phone in his hand, before gripping it tightly.

"I don't know what you're expecting me to say here, Gulf. You know I cannot reveal anything Bright may or may not have said to me in strict discretion. Besides, he's not the type to open up during chitchats. On the rare occasions when he does speak about personal stuff, Bright is never explicit regarding the details let alone his feelings. So, I don't understand why you're convinced I'm suddenly an expert regarding Bright's current behavior. Wasn't that spot typically reserved for you, Gulf? And as for my strange 'behavior' per your words, every time you guys discussed Win's feelings for Bright, well, maybe it was simply because I didn't want to be involved."

"Why?" "Why is that?" Singto and Gulf query at once.

"Because ... because, all those ideas and schemes were incredibly stupid and I have my reasons to steer clear of that mess. It- it is complicated, Gulf. There are a lot of reasons why a person does something and I- sometimes, there are no right answers to give at all."

"How about a straight answer then? Do you know why Bright is stubbornly insisting on pushing away Win when it is obvious they both are into each other? You can say that much, can't you?"

Sighing deeply, P'Gun adjusts his glasses. "I cannot confirm whether your theory about Bright being interested in Win holds water ... but yes, I do have an idea as to why he is playing dumb and turning down the hints from everyone about a potential relationship with Win."

Singto, Ohm, Off and Gulf lean closer in a subconscious move but the frowning omega has fallen silent yet again.

"And ... come on dear, you cannot stop at that! What's the reason? Don't tell me it has something to do with Pam – it can't be. Or is it? Bright swore off relationships completely after breaking ties with that girl. But that was just a heat of the moment, right? He cannot really be serious about it, is he?" P'Off fires off questions similar to the way a terminator handles his rifle: in an unending barrage.

"Well?" Gulf demands helpfully, when the guarded omega shows no signs of expanding on his vague answer.

"Pam has nothing to do with this ... well, er, not exactly. Look, this is beside the point. Bright is not going to pursue Win or accept his love. This bit will not change, I'm sorry. Can't you just let it go? Stop digging deeper. I guarantee, you guys won't like what you'll find."

Singto refuses to back down along with Gulf. He raises excellent points to persuade Gun into unsealing his lips.

"Why don't you let us know and then we can figure that out for ourselves, Gun? Besides, if I'm right and I have a feeling that I am – you don't seem too happy about this impasse either. Perhaps, all Bright needs is a gentle push to change his mind? Or he could use our help to get over whatever hindrances he's up against – whether it is regarding Pam or something else?"

The determined alpha pushes through past P'Gun's reluctant head-shakes and grimaces.

"You have to admit that Bright and Win are potential mates; have seen them together for three years now to know the evidence is indisputable. We all know how hard it is to come across a single potential mate or even a true mate in our lifetime. Who knows when and if Bright might ever come across another potential mate to have a shot? Are you saying, he is really alright with letting Win walk away? Gulf understands the true extent of that ordeal – of the possibility of losing out an opportunity with your mate for good. Hence, he is fighting hard for Bright's sake just like I am too. Why should we step back and let poor Win suffer for Bright's irrational decisions?"

"That's right," Gulf supplies with an earnest nod. "Bright clearly is suffering too and it is obvious, he wanted to be with Win. Except, he refused to admit it and kept saying it will never happen, as though it wasn't in his hands. Whatever the fuck is holding him back that Bright isn't revealing to us – we can help him overcome it."

"Yes. But first, we need to know what we're up against. What possible reasons could be worth ignoring their strong mate connection and potential happiness in favor of letting Bright hurt both of them in the long run?" Singto pushes.

P'Gun covers his eyes, muttering something under his breath that is too low for them to catch. Nonetheless, Gulf thinks it sounds close to 'I did warn you' or along those lines. Whatever it is, the visibly drained omega steels himself looking the four of them (well, mostly three because Ohm is merely a silent spectator) squarely in the eye. His large brown irises are cold and unforgiving behind the oval glass lens.

Something about the omega's posture and defeat lining in his face niggles at Gulf's senses.

Tries hard to make sense of the situation from Bright's end. Yet, no matter how much he thinks, Gulf keeps coming up black as to why Bright would reject a potential mate bond, especially when the alpha knows Win and is physically attracted to him as well.

A split-second of ominous premonition belatedly hits even as hair on the back of his neck rises. Even after bracing himself for the worst, Gulf is still taken back when it actually happens.

"Bright is already betrothed to another omega. His mother arranged the match years ago with a potential mate after the debacle with Pam went down." P'Gun declares in a brittle tone causing the stunned alpha's insides to freeze under those chilling words.

As far as reasons and excuses go for persistently turning down Win, Gulf has to admit with a sinking heart, this particular one is irrefutably solid and quite tough to beat.

Fuck.

>*<*>*<

Unlocking the front door, Mew enters the living room and heads straight for the tiny kitchen to grab some drinks for the two of them. When he doesn't hear any movement behind him, the surprised omega turns around to find P'Light lingering in the hallway, both awkward and hesitant.

Gathering his wits, Mew calls out to the alpha while reaching for the refrigerator. "Phi, I told you before! You don't have to wait for me to invite you every time. Unless you're a vampire and you specifically need me to do that."

"Inviting a Vampire once would do the trick. You don't have to repeat the gesture." P'Light snorts. He hovers for a second before stepping in and closing the door.

Mission accomplished, Mew thinks smugly as he hands him a bottle of iced tea.

"Thank you." The alpha uncaps the bottle and takes a swig from it. "I should go, though. You're safely home now. I, uh, placed an order for some fruits and snacks for tomorrow, in case you run out of supplies... The delivery will be arriving soon. I'll wait outside to collect it and leave them by the door. You can pick them after I leave."

He almost reaches the door and was about to pull it open when Mew's brain comes online again.

"Wait," Mew strides over to catch him and stops at the last second when the alpha flinches away. Suddenly uncertain, he falters in his conviction to talk things through. Guess, their conversation about mates will have to wait another day! Yet, he cannot really let the guy leave like that, after taking care of Mew too.

"Wait. What about you, Phi?

"What about me?" P'Light repeats, at a complete loss.

"Erm, aren't you on the brink of going into rut?" Mew fiddles with his ring, unable to glance at the alpha straight in the eye. "It is quite late. Don't you live quite far away ... won't it be difficult for you to reach your home in this condition?"

"Oh, I'll just stop by a pharmacy and take some suppressants, first. If the window runs short, I'll simply call for 'Alpha services' helpline and book it to their place instead. I will be fine, you don't need to worry Mew." He shrugs.

Mew blushes, hoping that his reddened cheeks will be mistaken as a result of his heat and shyly comments. "Well ... you don't have to. Leave, that is."

P'Light merely arches a brow. "Of course, you must have heat suppressants with you. I take one then, if you're offering. They are generally supposed to be stronger than rut suppressants, right."

"What? No- I meant..."

"I'll go check if the delivery guy turned up in the meanwhile."

"P'Light, stop."

Mew is more than confused by now. He's currently teetering into the hurt territory, well past taking offence. There is no way in hell, the smart and talented Phi doesn't understand what Mew is offering here. No way, did the tanned guy miss the signs – not just from today but throughout the years of their acquaintance.

Is he- is Mew really that undesirable that P'Light wouldn't even consider him as an option? Even though the alpha is approaching a rut and would be in unbearable pain soon, unless he does something about it? Is P'Light really willing to take a stronger dose of suppressants this close to rut and risk his health than consider Mew? Okay, it is fine if the older guy doesn't want to bond with him or even discuss about their compatibility levels. But does he really have to flee his home and wait on the streets for the emergency services to escort him to a private room to ride off his rut.

It is a difficult truth for Mew to swallow and even harder feat for him to face the alpha while hormones and biology teamed up to attack him internally. Hating the musician would be easy if only he didn't go to such extreme lengths to protect Mew's virtue. But he cannot – is incapable of even cursing the alpha – what right does he have to begrudge the Phi's choice?

Maybe, he really is that unlovable. There must be a reason why only creeps and terrible people hit on him all the time. Maybe, he doesn't deserve to even imagine a future with good people like P'Light. The void he's been trying so hard to suppress over the years creaks alarming under the strain of one too many rejections. Coming from P'Light, this blow feels twice as painful and deadly.

Blinking away the pressure increasing in his eyes, Mew begs. "You- you don't have to help me through my heat, Phi. I get that you don't see me that way. I wouldn't ever take advantage of your kindness like that ... But please don't leave now and risk your health."

If possible, P'Light turns even stricken by his pleas.

"No- you got it wrong, Mew. I do want- Can't you see ... the problem here is me. Not you. Never you! If I stay here tonight, you will definitely regret it the next day. My very presence is affecting you and your judgment right now. You're in this situation because of me ... it's my pheromones. If I leave, it will be easy for you. Your heat will break soon, it won't last long without an alpha nearby."

"I want you here. I don't give a damn about what started this and no, I won't regret it. If you do see me that way then, I want to help you, Phi. If you're okay with it." Mew steps forward, closing the distance between them.

"You don't know what you're offering. It's the heat talking, not you. You think, you know what you want. But, you don't." He croaks, stepping back.

The omega reels back. "No, Phi. I know what I'm saying. I-" Sighing, Mew moves away giving the guy ample space to breathe and leave if that's what he wants. Makes up his mind to address the itch gnawing at his chest.

"I will forget tonight ever happened if you want. Forget that your rut triggered my false heat and its connotations. We can go back to being a Phi and Nong like we always are. But I need you to know one thing. I would choose you- choose to spend my heat with you, stone-cold sober. And I'm still lucid enough at present to know the decision I am making. My offer still stands. I want to help you – and come tomorrow, I'll even pretend it's a dream if you want ... but let me help you."

P'Light whispers, hands balled by his side. "I don't want to hurt you, Mew. There's a lot we need to discuss-"

"Shh!" He presses a finger against those infuriatingly sinful lips. Already knows in his heart what the alpha meant, could see it in his eyes and the skillful evading P'Light used every time Mew tried to even hint at his feelings.

"It's okay, Phi. It doesn't have to mean anything. Just for tonight, we could be two strangers helping each other out – a casual hook-up to relieve the pain of our cycles."

P'Light gently holds his hand and caresses his jaw. "We'll be ourselves, Mew. It doesn't have to be that way and I- we'll talk ... about everything, when we're both ready and on the same page. I promise. Until then, I need some time..."

"Anything you want." Mew agrees in a heartbeat.

The alpha only smiles, a barely there stretch of lips with traces of agony and indescribable emotions bleeding raw in his voice. "Careful with your words, Nong. They might come back one day to haunt you."

The omega finds, he doesn't like the sound of bitterness and defeat in P'Light's words. It doesn't suit the usually pleasant and optimistic man. So, Mew does the only thing he can think off to erase the wretchedness from his expression and presses their lips together.

After all, if Mew is only ever going to get a night with the alpha, then he is damned well gonna make the most of it.

>*<*>*<

A/N: Please feel free to hit Votes and feedback.

Again, do not worry - this story has a happy ending for both the ships!! xoxo