Hongjoong released a laugh as he raised his shot glass in the air to cheers with his friends. Despite the cool weather the eight friends had gathered outside in their university courtyard. The six younger men were bundled in jackets and scarves, but Hongjoong and Seonghwa only had on the thin graduation gown. Seonghwa was huddled up to Mingi's side practically trying to suck the warmth straight from him.

Luckily for Mingi he was a beta and his soft scent wasn't rubbing off onto Seonghwa the way an alpha's would. Hongjoong did not consider himself to be a jealous alpha. Jealousy after all was wanting things that you did not already have. Seonghwa was his omega. Hongjoong wasn't jealous but he was territorial.

"To our hyung's" Yunho cheered as they toasted their glasses together. "For graduating!"

Seonghwa found himself giggling as he took a sip of his own drink. It was San that had smuggled the bottle in via his jacket pocket to the graduation. It had initially been planned they would drink it after the ceremony completed Hongjoong's family in attendance they decided it was best not to keep them waiting as the friends hung out. As a result they had all arrived early.

"For finally getting out of this hell" Jongho grumbled, finishing off his drink and stuffing his hands into his pockets.

"You're just bitter you still have three years left of school and this is hyung's last" Yeosang teased the youngest alpha.

"That's rich coming from the future lawyer," Jongho answered. "You have several years left."

"Yeah but you don't see me complaining about it" Yeosang shot back with a smirk - which only earned an eye roll from the youngest.

"Oh I'm going to miss seeing this every day" Seonghwa cooed - ever the sentimental one of the group. He leaned over and rested his head on Mingi's shoulder. He was the pack omega for a reason. Yes, because the pack viewed him as Hongjoong's partner, but mainly because of the care he put towards them. "No more hanging out in our university dorms together drinking and watching dramas or playing games. No late night cram sessions in the library. And no more instant noodles made with hot water from the tap."

San crunched up his face in distaste "no instant noodles for you maybe. The rest of us still gotta suffer."

"Aw Sani!" Wooyoung cooed, wrapping his arms around the alpha's neck. "I'll bring more leftovers from my family's restaurant this year. How does that sound?"

Hongjoong chuckled softly watching the couple find each other. Bending down he grabbed at the bottle of soju from the snow and poured himself another glass.

"Besides hyung" Wooyoung detached himself from San to focus on Seonghwa. "If you're going to miss us that much we will all just stop by your apartment more often."

"Now look what you did," Hongjoong groaned, glancing at the elder omega with a weak glare.

Seonghwa only laughed at Hongjoong and reached over to grab at the half filled shot glass. Winking he tossed back the remainder with a gulp. "Can't have you showing up to your own graduation tipsy'' Seonghwa teased.

"I can still walk in a straight line," Hongjoong answered.

"Oh my gosh, remember when Joong hyung had that mini fashion show for class but Hwa hyung couldn't make it at the last minute?" San started laughing at the memory.

"I still feel bad for cancelling" Seonghwa whined with regretful eyes shot in Hongjoong's direction. He had been booked for professional modelling gigs that same day and Hongjoong insisted he take the job that paid. It had taken a lot of convincing on Hongjoong's part as the omega was intent on putting the pack first.

"Don't worry about it" Hongjoong waved the sorrow away. "Yunho was able to take your spot at the last minute. And I passed anyways so it's all good."

"As much as we love to see you model Hongjoong hyung's clothes Seonghwa hyung, watching Yunho try to squeeze himself into the pants and shirt hyung tailored to your measurements was much more amusing" Mingi teased glancing at Yunho snickering from the memory.

Yunho rolled his eyes at the comment. "It's not my fault I was too tall for the pants and the shirt was made slender." He had the body of an alpha, that much was obvious with one look his way.

"It was pretty funny hyung," Jongho said with a small smile.

"I had done pretty well altering the outfit at the last minute" Hongjoong hummed slightly at the memory. "To be honest I was expecting it to be much worse. But rolling the legs made the shorter look seem intentional and unbuttoning the shirt was rather creative."

"And scandalous" San giggled at the mention of the opened shirt. "Yunho got a lot of numbers from omega's that night."

"Oh yeah" Yunho smirked slightly. "I forgot about that. Thanks hyung." He completely missed the frown that flashed across Mingi's face.

"No problem" Hongjoong shrugged dismissing the conversation wanting it to end early for the sake of his friend. How Yunho missed that his best friend was madly in love with him was beyond Hongjoong - but some people just didn't understand romantic cues.

"Have you heard from hyung?" Seonghwa directed the question to Hongjoong seeing a pause in the discussion.

"I talked to him this morning when you were in the shower" Hongjoong answered easily. "He said they were getting ready to head out."

Seonghwa nodded. "I texted noona about an hour ago. Sumin was getting fussy so they were going to stop for a couple minutes but promised they would still make it on time."

Hongjoong shrugged slightly "I'm sure they're somewhere in the audience. Hyung wouldn't miss this for the world." He chuckled lightly at how his brother had cried when Hongjoong received his acceptance letter to university and was beaming when he came home with Seonghwa for the first time and he patted him on the back when he finished each semester. Hongjoong didn't have many people in his life that would confidently say they were proud of him - especially during his high school years. But his brother was always there to cheer him on and state how happy he was for Hongjoong. So there wasn't a doubt in his mind that his hyung wasn't there somewhere in the audience.

"Have you heard from your parents?" Hongjoong asked in return.

This only earned a laugh from San, the alpha choosing to answer instead "oh not only has he heard from them but he's seen them too." When Hongjoong rose a questioning eyebrow San further explained, "Hyung's eomma practically came running down the sidewalk screaming his name for a hug. I think the whole campus knows of her arrival now."

"Where was I?" Hongjoong whined. "I wanted a hug from eomma Park."

Seonghwa chuckled, "it was when you went inside to solve some fashion nightmare with the robes," he explained. "But I'm sure she'll give you all the hugs you want after the ceremony at dinner."

"She better" Hongjoong pouted. He had become very close with the Park family over the years - just as Seonghwa did with the Kim's. Hongjoong would split holidays between the two families and whenever Ms Park called Seonghwa it was expected Hongjoong would take time to chat with her too. The Park's had provided Hongjoong with parental figures he otherwise wouldn't have had. "We're still on for dinner right?"

"I hope so," Seonghwa answered. "I booked the reservation and both our families know about it. We will meet out here after the ceremony then go to the restaurant."

"Are we invited hyung?" Wooyoung asked curiously - although he already knew Seonghwa couldn't deny him anything.

"Of course," Seonghwa smiled. "You all are family too. All of us will be going. We are a pack, you can't honestly think we would leave you behind."

"It'll be nice to see Minjae again," Yunho states. "And to meet Sumin."

"Ah Sumin is the cutest little pup! And such a sweetheart" Seonghwa gushed. There was a bright spike in his coconut scent. If Hongjoong didn't know better he would think Seonghwa was considering a future with pups.

Hongjoong rolled his eyes "you're only saying that because he stops crying whenever he's in your arms."

"I can't help that Sumin loves his uncle Hwa," Seonghwa teased.

"I'm his uncle too!" Hongjoong snapped. Although there was no real power behind it. It was pure teasing.

"Hey" San said, glancing up from his phone. "Did you guys hear about the break in at the museum the other day?"

"I heard about it," Yeosang said. "They hadn't been releasing any information to the public though."

"They have now," the alpha answered, turning his phone around for the others to view the article he had been reading. "It says they showed signs of assault to the section housing the jewellery. But after running an intense inventory apparently nothing was stolen."

"Nothing was taken?" Jongho frowned. "They go to all that work to get around security cameras and the guards are completely unnoticed only for them not to take anything?"

"That doesn't seem right," Wooyoung added. "They must've missed counted or something."

"I'm sure they have intense inventory," Yeosang said. "Besides the jewellery exhibition currently on display is on loan from China. I'm sure the museum is extremely protective over it. They will know if something was stolen."

"They could just be denying the information to the public" Wooyoung suggests. "Don't want to create a panic that such a crime was committed."

"I don't think the entire country of South Korea will start freaking out over jewellery theft," Mingi chuckled.

"It's not that the gems were stolen" Wooyoung said, his gaze absentmindedly traveling to Hongjoong's. "It's who was behind the theft."

"Not like it's a bunch of axe murders," Jongho shrugged. "I think the city is safe."

"I think the ceremony is starting soon," Hongjoong said nodding towards the gathering crowds, swiftly changing the subject.

Seonghwa groans lightly "guess I better go find my spot. All the way in the back."

"You're not that far back." Yeosang chuckled lightly, "Jongho and I'll walk with you."

"Hyung, Mingi and I will go with you" Yunho stated. " Woo and San should go get some seats."

"Yes sir" Wooyoung announced, giving a little salute that made the others laugh. "Let's go to San." Linking arms with the other male both were off.

"See you after the show, '' Seonghwa announced to Hongjoong. The omega leaned forward, closing the space between them and pecking him on the lips.

Hongjoong offered a quick kiss in return, choosing to ignore the knowing looks shared between their pack mates. "Don't trip and fall," he teased.

"Ah Joong! Don't even joke about that" Seonghwa stepped back and gently pushed against his arm. He flashed a quick smile and a wave before he was walking off with Yeosang and Jongho.

"What were you saying the other day about not dating Seonghwa?" Yunho teased.

"We aren't dating" Hongjoong shrugged as the three of them started walking to find Hongjoong's place in like.

"You kiss before parting," Mingi chuckled. "Sure seems like dating to me" the beta dodged around oncoming students.

"It's complicated" Hongjoong answered. Although it wasn't very complicated to Hongjoong. He understood where they were in their friendship. They were friends. Nothing more. Friends that occasionally fucked and kissed. He continued to weave through the oncoming crowd.

"It shouldn't be that complicated," Mingi mumbled.

Hongjoong shrugged simply in response and reached for his phone that was vibrating in his pocket. Expecting it to be Hyunjoong he frowned when he noticed the unknown number.

"Who is it?" Yunho questioned seeing the alpha's expression.

"Unknown" Hongjoong said swiping to answer the call. "Hello?"

"Hello is this Kim Hongjoong?" A female voice said.

"It is" Hongjoong furrowed his brow. "May I ask who's calling?" his sandalwood shifted into one of confusion.

"I am calling from Seoul Special Hospital," the woman explained. Hongjoong's blood ran cold. Why would the hospital be contacting him? "I regret to inform you that there has been an accident involving Kim Hyunjoong, Kim Mina, Kim Minjae and Kim Sumin. It is our understanding that you are their emergency contact and are of relation."

"Hyunjoong is my brother" Hongjoong choked the words out; well aware that Yunho and Mingi were watching with him worried expressions. "W-what happened?" he knew the drastic change in his scent was not only attracting his packs attention, but those around him as well.

"The doctor will explain more in person once you arrive" the voice said. "Are you able to come to the hospital?"

"Yeah. I'm coming. I'll be there within a half hour," Hongjoong said in a surprisingly calm voice. As though he was a robot he removed the phone from his ear ending the call. Without even sparing Mingi or Yunho a glance he spun on his heels exiting the university in favour of returning outside.

"Hyung!" Mingi called in surprise. The two had spun around with Hongjoong in confusion and struggled with following him through the oncoming students. "Hongjoong hyung!"

"Hyung!" Yunho tried pushing slightly ahead of Mingi. The crowd parted slightly for the alpha, recognizing his social status. Bursting through the exit they were welcomed by the icy air.

"I need to go" Hongjoong said fiddling with his phone, looking to call for a taxi. His breathing had increased slightly, his heart pounding in his chest. He needed to get to the hospital. He shouldn't be here. He should be with his family.

Mingi reached forward and grabbed at Hongjoong's wrist, forcing him to stop. "Hongjoong hyung" he said sternly, very uncharacteristic of him. "What was that phone call about? What's got you so upset?"

"The hospital" Hongjoong forced out through clenched teeth. He tried his best to maintain a stable scent. He didn't need anymore attention than he was currently getting.

"What about the hospital?" Yunho asked with a slightly calmer tone.

"The hospital called" Hongjoong started to take deep breaths. "They... hyung and noona and the kids... they were in an accident."

"What?" Mingi's eyes widened as he released his hold on Hongjoong.

"I need to go" Hongjoong said breaking away from the two and began jogging out towards the street. Glancing around he struggled with finding a taxi, or at least one that was free. He fought back the tears that wanted to form in his eyes. Finally able to flag down a cab Hongjoong climbed in, directing them to the nearby hospital.

Seated in the backseat Hongjoong started bouncing his leg as he thought about his family. His phone remained clenched in his hands, ready to answer should a call come through. Glancing out the window he watched as the world passed him by. Feeling sick to his stomach he watched a young couple push a stroller down the sidewalk, another child walking carefully beside it. The scene hit a little too close to home as he envisioned Hyunjoong. The child had glanced up at their parents, saying something that made the man laugh.

With his eyes clouding over as the tears finally formed, Hongjoong lost sight of the family. He tugged the sleeve of his sweater down and wiped at his eyes quickly, hoping that he could hide them before the driver noticed. But when a whimper escaped his lips the driver glanced back at him with concern.

"I'm fine" Hongjoong insisted, waving the man's gaze away, having noticed it in the mirror. Turning his face away he tried to hide in the seat. The driver had the decency to turn the music up, giving Hongjoong the space to let the tears fall without being heard.

"We're here" the driver stated pulling up to the drop off is.

"Thanks" Hongjoong mumbled reaching for his wallet to retrieve some bills. Once they were handed over he climbed out rushing through the hospital entrance.

"Oh hello" the receptionist jumped a little at how fast Hongjoong approached the desk. "How May I help you today?"

"I received a call regarding the Kim family. Hyunjoong, Mina, Minjae and Sumin" Hongjoong answered quickly as he anxiously shifted his footing. "They were involved in a car accident."

The woman nodded in understanding and had begun typing on her computer. She kept her face straight as she looked at the screen. Although it was likely difficult with the amount of pheremones that Hongjoong was releasing. The air surrounding them couldn't be comfortable. "I will notify the doctor of your arrival. He will be down shortly to speak with you," she explained.

"Can I at least see my family?" Hongjoong requested. His alpha tone was coming through, making it sound more demanding than he had intended.

"The doctor will discuss all that with you," she repeated. "Until he comes down you can wait over there" she pointed to the small waiting area. "He shouldn't take too long."

Hongjoong wanted to argue, he really did, begging to see his family, but he didn't have it in him. He accepted defeat and hung his head low walking over to the uncomfortable chairs. He sighed, bouncing his knee slightly in worry. His phone buzzed in his pocket signalling a message.

Yunho: Hyung? Have you spoken to the doctor? Any word on your hyung?

Hongjoong: No

Not yet

I'm waiting to speak with the doctor now

Yunho: They didn't say anything in the phone call?

Hongjoong: Nothing other than they were

In a car accident and I needed to come

Yunho: How are you doing?

Hongjoong: I'm not the one that was in an accident

"Family of Hyunjoong?" A deep voice called out.

Hongjoong: I must go. They're calling for me.

"Here" Hongjoong stood, shivering at the way it sounded like he was in school taking attendance. He stood up and walked to the doctor. It was easy to tell the elder male was a beta based on his calming and controlled scent.

"Please come with me," he stated after a quick introduction. They moved towards one of the nearby empty rooms completed with a couch and two large chairs. It appeared as the perfect place to sit and talk.

"How's my hyung?" Hongjoong asked anxiously taking a seat.

"Kim Hyunjoong was announced dead at the scene" the doctor spoke softly, with a calming tone as he quickly released the news. "He received blunt force trauma to his skull when the airbag failed to release. The paramedics did everything they could on scene but his injuries were too savvier."

"My... my brother is d-dead?" Hongjoong questioned, his blood turning to ice. "He's actually dead?"

The doctor nodded "we are very sorry for your loss. Is there anyone we can call to be with you at this time?"

"No" Hongjoong answered a little too quickly. "Hyunjoong was the only family I had left."

"A friend perhaps?" The doctor suggested. "Your pack? I am certain a young alpha like you must belong to a pack."

Hongjoong paused for a moment, considering if he should call Seonghwa. He wouldn't want to put this pressure on anyone. But Hyunjoong mattered to Hwa as well. He would want to be here not only for Hongjoong but the entire Kim family. "No" Hongjoong ultimately decided. Seonghwa was busy. He had a fashion show to attend. Hongjoong will contact him later. "It's just me."

"I understand," the doctor said, although it didn't seem like he did.

"What about Mina and the kids?"

"Kim Mina is currently in surgery to repair her spleen and stop internal bleeding. She also received blunt force trauma and was trapped between the seat and dashboard before the fire department could get her out" the doctor explained slowly.

"Oh my god" Hongjoong gasped. Leaning forward he rested his head in his hands in defeat. "Oh my god" he repeated. The feel as though he was falling overtook him. As though he had jumped off a cliff with nowhere to grab and nothing to slow his fall. He was going to hit the ground and he knew it.

"She's alive," the doctor said sternly. "That's what you need to remember. She is alive and professionals are trying to save her. Stay hopeful about that."

"Minjae and Sumin?" Hongjoong asked, looking for some kind of good news.

"Both are okay" the doctor offered a small smile. "Sumin doesn't even have a scratch thanks to his car seat. Minjae is being scanned for a concussion, as it appears he did hit his head and he has received stitches on a cut just above his right eye. Other than that your nephews are fine."

"They're alive" Hongjoong sighed in relief.

"They're alive and well," the doctor reassured him. "I can take you to them if you'd like. They're currently in the children's ward."

Hongjoong at forward, eager to say yes before quickly clamping his mouth shut. What was he supposed to tell Minjae if he asked about his parents? How was he supposed to comfort his nephew that had just lost his father? Hongjoong wasn't ready for that – he never will be. "I..." he made the selfish decision. "Is it okay if I stay in the waiting room for a while? Until I hear about Mina?"

The doctor nodded slowly "of course, but I do urge you that the children are in a new environment and could benefit from seeing a familiar face."

"I know," Hongjoong sighed. "I will go to them as soon as I know what to say... and do."

"You just comfort them" the doctor reached forward and rested his large hand on the younger's shoulder. "Hold them, simply be there for them." Hongjoong nodded slowly in response, but it didn't appear like he would be changing his mind. "You can stay in the waiting room for as long as you need. You will be contacted with news regarding Mina or any changes with the children. We will discuss funeral details later."

"I..." Hongjoong trailed off, not even wanting to consider how a funeral was needed. "I, uh... okay."

The doctor nodded and gave his shoulder apart before getting up and guiding Hongjoong back to the waiting room.

"Thanks" Hongjoong mumbled, taking a seat.

"Stay strong son" the doctor answered, offering a final small smile before leaving.

"He's dead" Hongjoong mumbled to himself. Leaning his head back he rested it against the wall. His brother was dead. Hyunjoong had been like a compass, pointing Hongjoong in the right direction when he had felt lost.

Hyunjoong had been the first to leave the Kim family – a disgrace to the family name as he had been told at the time. That night when Hyunjoong announced he had met a woman, a beta,  one that made him want to be a better person, have a future that wasn't tainted by darkness, Hongjoong couldn't understand – he had only been ten at the time after all. How could Hyunjoong love somebody more than the history and traditions that the Kim family upheld in South Korea? The Kim family was to mate alpha's and alpha's only, keep the pack clean. They were not allowed to mate with a beta, and certainly not an omega.

Naturally their father had not handled the news well. The dinner table had swiftly turned into a warzone as knives began to be thrown across the table – Hongjoong watching in amusement as he nibbled on a piece of fried chicken. When their eomma stepped in she sent the two men to the house office to discuss things in a more civilized manner, leaving her to fawn over Hongjoong.

Hongjoong had been tucked into bed in his favourite pair of pyjamas ready for dreamland when the door was pushed open with just a crack. From the shadows of the hallway Hyunjoong slowly came inside. He crept up to Hongjoong's bed, gently sitting on the edge of it. With his hand resting soothingly on the young boy's back Hyunjoong proceeded to whisper his goodbyes. He provided a quick explanation as to why he was leaving – insisting that it wasn't Hongjoong's fault and he had been a great motivation that made him want to stay.

The young boy had not yet presented. It was expected he would be an alpha like his hyung, and every other Kim before him. However, despite his lack of presenting, he knew the Kim's were his pack. And you didn't leave your pack.

Hyunjoong had insisted that Hongjoong could find him when the time was right. When Hongjoong felt the need to get away from the pack his hyung would be there to provide him with any support he might need. At the time Hongjoong hadn't understood. Why would the nine year old ever want to leave the home he had known and loved? His parents that cared for him? It had seemed like wasted words to Hongjoong.

However by the time Hongjoong had turned sixteen, a few months after presenting as an alpha, had a better understanding of what his brother meant that night and why he needed to get away. Once he was exposed to the world his brother had known well he had wanted to get away. That is how Hongjoong found himself packing his backpack one rainy night and running away only to end up at his hyung's apartment. Hyunjoong hadn't asked any questions, welcoming the teenager with ease.

From that night onwards Hongjoong began living with Hyunjoong and Mina, receiving all the support he would need from the two to complete high school and to start his dreams as a fashion design student. It was in that environment where Hongjoong truly felt he had found himself. He will always owe his hyung and noona for all their assistance.

"Hongjoong" a voice, clear as day, although weakened called to the male, snapping him out of his own self-deprivation.

Hongjoong turned to glance in the direction of the newcomer. He wasn't sure who he had expected to see rushing down the hallway, but it certainly wasn't Seonghwa with his black graduation gown still on but unbuttoned and flowing out behind him as he approached, looking very much like he didn't belong in the hospital. "W-what..." Hongjoong struggled with finding his voice. "What a-are you d-doing here?"

Before Seonghwa even dignified Hongjoong with an answer, the omega crossed the waiting room area and captured Hongjoong's small body into a warm embrace. His arms locked around Hongjoong's middle, holding him tight against his chest, and his hands rested on his lower back.

Hongjoong who had otherwise been holding on fairly well up until that moment broke. He reached up and interlocked his fingers together behind Seonghwa's neck, squeezing so tight he was very possibly suffocating him. He pressed his face into the elders cream knitted sweater as he let out a painful cry. His eyes squeezed shut but that didn't stop the tears from falling. The water glided down his cheeks like rain on a windowpane.

The pain Hongjoong experienced was unlike anything Seonghwa had ever seen before. It was of true heartbreak. He had once heard a saying that people can die of a broken heart. Seonghwa had never put much stock into that comment. He had experienced heartbreak before – or at least he thought he had. His middle school crush rejected him in front of everyone at a dance, his high school girlfriend cheated on him and his first boyfriend only wanted him for sex. He had been hurt of course – and humiliated. However he never would've considered the heartbreak painful enough he might die from it. It was nothing a week of bed binge watching k-dramas and eating ice cream could cure.

However he doubted that any amount of ice cream and endless supply of k-dramas could repair the heart that belonged to Kim Hongjoong.

His scent had increased, sending out a single distress. It was certainly common in the hospital and he was positive there was likely some scent blockers constantly being sprayed to maintain a stable scent. However that didn't make him any less nervous in displaying his scent of weakness. Alpha's weren't allowed to be weak. They shouldn't need help. But here Hongjoong was, crying out for his pack member.

With a scream muffled against Seonghwa's sweater Hongjoong's legs finally gave out, unable to support him any longer. Seonghwa was luckily able to catch him, feeling the alpha's full weight against him. Slowly the omega lowered them both to the ground, resting on their knees. Tugging Hongjoong closer Seonghwa tried to whisper in his ear. "I got you Hongjoong," he mumbled, his hands finding their way into his friend's blonde locks. "I'm here. I got you and I won't let go. You're not alone. I promise you're not alone." The omega released a wave of soothing coconut pheromones in hopes it might offer some form of comfort.

Hongjoong released another heartbreaking whimper, trying his best to lessen his tears. "H-he" Hongjoong cried out, his nose pressing into Seonghwa's neck. Taking in some deep breaths he focused on Seonghwa's scent gland.  "He... Hyunjoong...H-hyung is d-d-dead." He whimpered, more tears soaking into Seonghwa's sweater.

The elder released a deep gasp. His entire body stiffening as he held onto Hongjoong for his own level of support. "H-Hyunjoong is..." he trailed off unable to finish, feeling tears pull at the corner of his own eyes.

"He's dead," Hongjoong repeated. His grip lessened as he leaned back from the elder – still holding on but not as tight. He locked eyes with his best friend. Both were in their own bubble. The eyes of the others in the waiting room, likely silently judging them, went unnoticed.

"N-noona?" Seonghwa questioned nervously. "Sumin and Minjae?"

Hongjoong reached up and wiped at his nose, not caring that the snot was getting all over the newest shirt he bought for the occasion. "N-noona is in s-surgery. The doctors are hoping to s-save her." another wave of silent tears began to fall.

Seonghwa took a moment simply to breathe. He knew he needed to stay strong, for Hongjoong's sake. He was the pack omega. It was his job to offer this soothing comfort to pack members. But Seonghwa wasn't invincible. Mina and Hyunjoong had meant a lot to him as well. He viewed them as family. To hear he lost one and the other might follow soon sliced away at his own heart. "W-we" Seonghwa glanced around the room, noticing the people staring at them. "We should get up." he didn't wait for Hongjoong's response. The omega pushed himself off the floor and extended a hand to Hongjoong to help him up – which the younger accepted happily.

Together they moved towards an open set of seats, not one releasing each other. "The doctor said he'll be out when there's an update on Mina noona but it could be hours."

Nodding Seonghwa wrapped his arm around Hongjoong's shoulder to hold him close against his side. "And what about Minnie and Su-Su?"

Hongjoong sighed softly and rested his head on Seonghwa's shoulder. "They're being examined now. Minjae apparently got a couple cuts but Sumin appears to be unscratched. They're in the children's ward. I was planning to go down there but I didn't... I didn't know what to say. What if Minjae asks about his appa? What am I supposed to say?"

Seonghwa tightened his hold on Hongjoong "you be honest with him" he spoke calmly. "You tell him that his appa has died but that one day they will see each other again. You reassure him that everything will be okay, that you are going to be there for him and support him in any way he needs."

"You make it sound so easy," Hongjoong mumbled, his head coming to rest on Seonghwa's shoulder, tilting his face inwards towards his neck.

"It's not," Seonghwa said. "This is going to be the hardest thing you've done in your life. It'll make you feel completely powerless and weak. You'll feel like you're broken. But it is something you can and will do because your family needs you. Minjae and Sumin are going to need you now more than ever."

Hongjoong released a low whimper. He wanted to argue, but there wasn't anything more he could say. Seonghwa was right, plain and simple. The best he could do now was try to be strong.

The two sat in silence for what felt like hours. Seonghwa never once released his hold on the younger, he simply allowed Joong's tears to soak through his expensive custom-made jacket. He watched as the occasional staff came and went from the waiting room. There were many happy tears shed when doctors came to inform patient's families that their loved ones were going to recover. Seonghwa just hoped that Hongjoong would receive the same positive news.

"Family for Kim Mina?" a voice called.

"That's us," Seonghwa mumbled to Hongjoong. "Come on Hongjoong, we need to go speak with him." he raised his hand, quickly signaling to the doctor who Mina's family was.

Hongjoong gave a small nod and forced himself to stand. He quickly took hold of Seonghwa's hand, not wanting to be too far from the elder. They approached the doctor, who led them towards a nearby office. At the mention of going to another room Seonghwa stiffened slightly, but Hongjoong didn't let it affect him.

"How is Mina noona?" Hongjoong asked quickly, once the doctor was seated behind his desk.

The doctor folded his hands together and took a deep breath. "We did everything we could but Kim Mina had intensive internal bleeding and a ruptured spleen. She died on our operating table."

"W-what?" Hongjoong froze. He had expected there to be a long recovery ahead, struggles the entire family would need to face together. But he had never truly considered the possibility that she might not make it out of the operating room.

"We are so sorry for your loss," the doctor stated.

"She's dead?" Hongjoong breathed out. From there everything moved slowly. It was as though Hongjoong was on autopilot, having lost control over him. Hongjoong has zero memories of what followed after that. There were mentions about funerals, where the body would need to go from the hospital, contacting next of kin. Hongjoong wishes he could say he comprehended the information, but truth is he had barely heard it. Seonghwa had taken the initiative to communicate with the details.

"Hongjoong?" Seonghwa's soft voice cut through metal silence. "Hongjoong we should go see Minjae and Sumin."

Hongjoong nodded slowly standing. He paused though as he looked back at the doctor. "I. Funerals and stuff... I should've talked to you about that."

"It's alright" the doctor stood and gazed at him with understanding. "Your mate spoke with me regarding that." He glanced towards Seonghwa.

"It's okay Hongjoong" Seonghwa insisted wrapping an arm around the other man's shoulder. "It's taken care of and I'll explain everything to you later. Let's just go clear our heads and then check on the pups alright?"

Hongjoong felt himself nod, allowing his empty shell of a body to be led away.

Holding Hongjoong flesh against his body Seonghwa started his walk down the hallway, following a mint coloured line on the floor. The younger male found himself to still be completely zoned out, simply following after Seonghwa like a lost puppy.

"Are you hungry?" Seonghwa asked, pausing in front of a vending machine. He was an omega, sue him for wanting to keep his pack well fed.

Shaking his head in response Hongjoong gazed at the floor. Despite his answer of no, Seonghwa slid a couple bills into the machine and began pressing away at the buttons. Once he had collected a couple bags of chips and chocolate bars he started guiding him towards the elevator.

"Where are we going?" Hongjoong questioned in a small voice.

"The children's ward is upstairs," Seonghwa explained. "That's where Sumin and Minjae are."

Hongjoong's eyes widened. "No" he gasped slightly. "I'm not... I'm not ready to see Minjae and Sumin..."

"You'll never be ready" Seonghwa said softly, his hand coming up to rest on Hongjoong's shoulder. "But you can't put this off forever." His coconut scent turned soft and sweet.

"What am I supposed to say?" Joong questioned.

"What do you mean?" Seonghwa asked.

The alpha's voice got even smaller as he said, "what do I tell them? How do I tell them?"

"You tell them that eomma and appa have died, that they won't see them for a long, long time, but that they both love them very much and would want them to be happy and healthy. And you make sure they are reassured that they will be coming home with us and they will continue to be cared for."

"Wait" Hongjoong's head snapped towards him, "be coming home with us?" he watched Seonghwa with confusion laced eyes. He hadn't considered what would happen to the two children, of course he figured he's be visiting them more often to offer them any support he could, but he hadn't considered them coming to stay with him.

"Well..." Seonghwa frowned slightly, "I had just assumed. Although I don't know much about the history of your family I know both you and Hyunjoong aren't extremely close with them, so I figured you wouldn't want Minjae and Sumin going to live with any of them. Unless I'm wrong regarding your relationship with them."

"N-no" Hongjoong stuttered. "I wouldn't want them with my family... they can't go to them. No" he started to shift to a stronger tone. "Hyunjoong would be so ashamed of me if I let them into that environment. We had done everything to get away. I can't... they can't be there. Nobody deserves that."

"As I thought," Seonghwa nodded, stepping off the elevator. "Which means they are likely to come home with us. You're the only viable family member."

"What about Mina's family?" Hongjoong suggested.

But Seonghwa easily shook his head no in response. "Mina's family isn't in a position to take on children. You know that her grandparents raised her. And I'm not saying this as an insult, but they won't have the energy to keep up with a toddler and a newborn. Plus it wouldn't be far to put that on them."

"I didn't realize you knew so much about my family" Hongjoong mumbled. Of course he had known Mina grew up with her grandparents, he had seen them at holidays. But it hadn't dawned on him that there wasn't anyone else in Mina's life.

"Of course I do, '' Seonghwa said, wrapping his arm around Hongjoong's shoulder and taking him close to his side. "They're my family too."

Hongjoong gazed up at him, with his eyes slightly widened in wonder. Of course he had known how close Seonghwa was with his family, he had felt as though they were all a family, but he hadn't considered that Seonghwa might think and feel so strongly regarding it.

"How am I going to do it Seonghwa?" Hongjoong whispered. "You're right. I'm the best option for them. My family isn't possible, I won't allow it and I can't put that struggle on two seniors. The only other options are for them to go to foster care, and that's... not I refuse to let that happen. I'm the only family they have that could take them.

"But how am I supposed to do it?"

"You won't be doing it alone Hongjoong" Seonghwa said sternly, but when Hongjoong glanced at him the omega could see the confusion. "You keep saying 'I'" Seonghwa explained. "But it's not going to be only you. I will be there as well."

"You will?" Hongjoong questioned in a small doubtful voice.

"Of course I will be there Hongjoong" Seonghwa said. He stopped them both from walking. Turning so he was facing Hongjoong, his hand began to go through the alpha's hair soothingly. "I'm not going to leave you to handle this alone. They call me uncle. I do take that title seriously. Although we don't share the same blood we are family, we are a pack, and I am going to support not only them, but you as well through all this. So long as you'll allow me to assist..."

Hongjoong practically jumped forward, his small arms wrapping around Seonghwa's waist, giving it a squeeze. "Thank you" he breathed out lightly. "Thank you Seonghwa." His breathing hitched slightly as he fought back another batch of tears.

"Of course Hongjoong" Seonghwa bowed his head slightly so that his nose could press against Hongjoong's hair, breathing in the light apple blossom scent from his shampoo.

"But Seonghwa..." Hongjoong mumbled into his chest.

"What is it?" Seonghwa questioned.

"How are we supposed to raise two pups? We've only just graduated from university, we live in the closet of an apartment, and we both have work. What time do we have for them? What space?"

"We will find the time and space, '' Seonghwa reassured him. "You need to just be determined enough to do so. Our schedules might need some rearranging. But I am certain we can find a way to balance it. It won't be the easiest thing we've done, but it will be possible."

"You sound so certain" Hongjoong mumbled.

"I am," Seonghwa nodded firmly.

"Why?" Hongjoong wondered.

"Because you're Kim Hongjoong" Seonghwa smiled brightly, the first genuine smile since he had entered the hospital. "I have never known you to give up on anything. When the teacher marked you down due to the gender neutral fashion design you created, when it was supposed to be solely female, you marched into their office with a speech prepared on gender norms. You were the one to stay up late helping Mingi with a specific song he was struggling with. And let's not forget how you helped San study for his business class, but you taught yourself all the material beforehand so you could understand it first.

"And although I don't know your entire story, I know there was a reason you left home at sixteen to move in with hyung. You were still a pup. Barely had presented. But you were able to recognize that environment as negative, and you did what you could to get away from it. Not everyone would have that strength – especially when it was in regards to their own family.

"You're the strongest person I know. You've taken every challenge and struggle that you've been given in life and defeated it. You have never hesitated, or shied away from anything. You take it all head on. I know this won't be easy, but I also know this is something you can, and will do.

"And I'll be there with you every step of the way."

"Thank you Seonghwa" Hongjoong said in a small voice. "Not just for what you just said. But for everything. For being here, talking to the doctor, coming to see the kids with me. And for everything you are going to do, because I know you are going to be a huge help in the coming weeks – years – and I might not always have the time to say it, or realize I should say it, so I want to say it now.  Thank you Seonghwa."

"You're welcome to Hongjoong" Seonghwa said. He slid his finger under Hongjoong's chin and titled it up slightly. Bowing his head he lightly captured Hongjoong's lips in a sweet kiss. It wasn't the best location – it certainly wasn't romantic – standing in the sterile hospital hallway with doctors walking past them. However, it was sweet.

Hongjoong could feel Seonghwa's devotion put forth in the embrace – and that's what he needed most right now. It reminded him that Seonghwa was going to stay.

Stepping back slightly Seonghwa broke off the kiss. "We're here," he said.

"What?" Hongjoong questioned with his eyebrows furrowing.

Seonghwa nodded at the door behind Hongjoong. "This is Sumin and Minjae's room. They roomed them together for convince." The alpha nodded in understanding, but he still hadn't turned to face the door. "You ready to go in?"

"No" Hongjoong sighed deeply. "But I never will be." Hongjoong took a deep breath to even out his scent in hopes of not giving anything away and spun on his heels in a quick motion before gently pushing the door open.

The room was a standard children's hospital room, painted a calming blue with little balloons of wallpaper around the edging. There were a couple chairs stationed around the room for visitors, but the main space was taken up with a toddler-sized bed and a crib placed side by side.

Minjae was curled up on the bed, under several blankets, as though he was trying to make himself invisible. Or maybe trying to find the comfort of a nest.

"Where is Minjae?" Seonghwa said, stepping into the room.

"He's right-" Hongjoong started

"Is he playing hide and seek?" Seonghwa quickly cut the alpha off. He stepped towards the bathroom door. "Is he in the bathroom?" he opened the door excitedly. "Hmm nope."

Hongjoong moved towards the window and pushed the blind side. "Not behind the blinds either."

"So where could he be?" Seonghwa gasped. He went towards Sumin's crib and cooed, "oh I found Sumin!" the little pup had reached his arms up at the recognition of his name. "Come to uncle Hwa," Seonghwa said, lifting the boy into his arms. Sumin sniffled, tears still hung in his eyes and snot dripped from his nose. "Oh my poor baby," Seonghwa gushed. He wiped across the boy's nose with the sleeve of his custom designed sweater. "I know it's scary here with nobody you know," Seonghwa said softly. "I would be sad too."

Hongjoong focused on moving around the room, continuing his game of hide and seek, although he didn't completely understand the point in it he trusted that Seonghwa had his reasoning. "Is Minjae under the bed?" he bent down to peek under the bed. "No" he sighed. "He's not."

There was a little giggle sounding from above Hongjoong.

"Oh uncle Joong," Seonghwa sighed, shaking his head dramatically to amuse Sumin. "Why would Minjae be under the bed?" he rocked Sumin slowly. "Right Su-Su? Why would hyung be under the bed? Isn't uncle Joong silly?"

"You checked the bathroom," Hongjoong said pushing him off the floor.

"But the bathroom was possible, '' Seonghwa insisted, pacing back and forth slowly to fully calm the baby down. "Nobody is ever under the bed."

"Well I need a break" Hongjoong huffed, "that was a lot of work." He sat on the edge of the bed, before lightly laying himself back on the small bed, although he was aware not to put too much weight down in fear of crushing Minjae. "Hey" he grumbled brushing his arm across Minjae's body. "What's this lump here in bed? Is this too many blankets?" grabbing at the layer of blankets he started pulling them away.

This resulted in another batch of laughter from the little pup.

"I think I hear something," Seonghwa gasped. "Su-Su do you hear your hyung?"

Hongjoong pulled back the last blanket, showing Minjae from underneath. The boy had his hair damp and ruffled – probably from getting him cleaned up and changed into his pair of blue hospital pajamas.

"There you are!" Hongjoong cheered with a forced bright smile. He turned on his side slightly so he was facing the pup. "How did you get under there?" he questioned resting his hand on the boy's back, gently rubbing it. As the best he could, he released some warm sandalwood.

"Uncle Joong '' Minjae giggled, his own little face turning to Hongjoong's. He shifted on the bed so that he was close to the adult. Hongjoong took this as a cue to wrap his arms around the child and tug him close to his chest, cuddling up with him.

"Hey my Minnie," Hongjoong answered, kissing at the top of the boy's head.

Sumin released a small cry, grabbing at the front of Seonghwa's shirt.

Hongjoong glanced at them questioning, but it was Minjae who responded, "hungry."

"Are you hungry?" Hongjoong asked glancing back at the boy.

"No" Minjae shook his head slowly "Sumin is."

Seonghwa smiled, "I think you're right" he agreed, seeing the way Sumin grabbed at his chest again. The pup was obviously recognizing him as an omega. He took hold of the baby's little hand and kissed it. "Sorry baby boy, but uncle Hwa doesn't have what you want." Hongjoong watched in silent confusion. Seonghwa moved towards the side of the bed and pressed the call button for a nurse.

"What does he want?" Hongjoong questioned.

"Milk" Seonghwa chuckled, bouncing the boy slightly.

"Oh" Hongjoong blushes lightly, that should've been obvious.

"Somebody rang?" a female voice sounded, as a nurse walked into the room.

"Hi," Seonghwa said with a small smile.

"Oh hello" she beamed at him. "Guess you're this sweet pup's family?"

"We're their uncles" Hongjoong answered sitting up slightly from the bed.

"I'm Park Seonghwa '' the eldest held his hand out for the nurse to shake. "And that's Kim Hongjoong."

"Uncle Hwa and uncle Joong" Minjae beamed.

"Oh" a flash of realization came across the nurse's face as she looked between the two adults. "Oh that's lovely! May I ask how long you've been together?"

"We're not-" Hongjoong started.

"Just about three years," Seonghwa answered before Hongjoong had a chance. "University sweethearts. I'm sure you know how it is."

"Of course," she answered. She appeared as though she was only a few years older than them. "These sweet boys are lucky to have you both to care for them. Mates are such a strong bond and a wonderful space for pups to be raised in."

"Thank you" Seonghwa smiled with a small nod.

"What can I help you both with today?"

"I think Sumin here is hungry. Can I trouble you for a bottle?" Seonghwa questioned.

"Of course," the nurse said. "Is there a specific brand of formula he prefers? We don't carry all of them, but we have several to choose from. It's always best to try and be as consistent as possible."

"Sumin has been purely breastfed," Seonghwa explained – much to Hongjoong's surprise. Of course he knew Seonghwa was close with his hyung and noona, but he didn't realize they talked so often that Seonghwa knew about Sumin's feeding.

"Ah," the nurse nodded. "That's no problem. I'll bring one of our standard ones and see how he likes it."

"Thanks" Seonghwa said with a nod of his head, the nurse already on her way out.

"How did you know that?" Hongjoong questions looking at Seonghwa.

"Know what?" Seonghwa asks.

"About Sumin only being breastfed" Hongjoong said. "Even I didn't know that."

"Oh" Seonghwa would chuckle lightly. "Noona and I used to face time watching k-dramas at night. It was the time when she would pump." When Hongjoong looked at him even more confused than before Seonghwa laughed again. "Milk" Seonghwa explained. "Pumping milk" he moved his hand across his chest in a none verbal indicator.

"Oh" Hongjoong's cheeks turned bright red and glanced away in embarrassment – which only made Seonghwa laugh more and Minjae to poke at the rosy cheek. "Why did you tell her we were together?" he mumbled into the pillow, part of him hoping Seonghwa wouldn't hear. "That we were mates."

"It makes us more desirable," he explained in a soft voice. "The hospital and any potential legal teams involved will see how stable you are with a permanent partner. To have a mate and a pack. Explaining our relationship with how it is, wont look like a good environment."

"I suppose I get it" Hongjoong grumbled. Although he didn't completely like it. He hated that "boyfriend" title, implying that there was a relationship.it wasn't anything against Seonghwa. He would've been this way with anyone.

"I know we aren't actually together Hongjoong" Seonghwa answered a little more harshly than intended, his eyes rolling as well.

"I didn't mean to upset y-"

"You didn't" Seonghwa cuts him off. "I'm fine."

Today was certainly not the day to argue –and especially not over something as tedious as relationship status.  

"Here we are" the nurse was quick to return, with a bottle in her hand. "See if Sumin will take this" she hands it off to Seonghwa.

Nibbling on his bottom lip, Seonghwa pressed the nipple to Sumin's lips hoping the baby would accept the formula. The omega also held the pup close to his coconut scent gland so he could better recognize his uncle was there. Sumin hesitated at first, glancing up at the adult as though he had assaulted him. "It's good Su-Su," Seonghwa encouraged. "Try it." After another moment of hesitation the baby latched on and slowly started to drink, earning a sigh of relief from the elder.

"Press the call button if you need anything" the nurse bowed slightly. "The doctor will be in shortly to discuss the treatment of Minjae's stitches and when they can go home."

"Thank you" Hongjoong called from the bed, bowing his head in thanks.

Seonghwa stepped towards the bed to offer a warm smile. "Look at you Minjae. So strong and brave" he cooed. His gaze went towards the stitches above Minjae's eye. "You are the bravest little boy I know," Seonghwa said softly.

"Where's eomma?" Minjae asked, looking between his uncles. "Where's appa?"

For a split second Seonghwa and Hongjoong shared a knowing look. This would be the best time to tell him. Seonghwa grabbed the nearest chair and tugged it over to the side of the bed, keeping Sumin in his hold. With a nod he encouraged Hongjoong to continue.

"Minjae" Hongjoong's voice was soft, his hand gently rubbing up and down his back. "Eomma and appa are gone." He had assumed this would be the quickest way to deliver the news, and somewhat soften the blow. But when he saw Seonghwa sent him a small shake of his head he realized he did something wrong.

"Gone?" Minjae asked. "Gone where? When are you back? Back soon?" the boy shifted on the bed to look at the door to the room.

"Oh Minjae" Hongjoong sighed softly. He gently tugged the boy back towards him to regain his attention. "Eomma and appa are dead. They won't be coming back."

"Dead?" Minjae frowned. "No back?"

Hongjoong nodded. "They aren't coming back baby" he spoke quietly. "But eomma and appa love you so very much. They didn't want to leave you. They wanted to stay. They love you Minjae."

"Why not stay?" His voice was small, his eyes covering over with tears.

"They wanted to," Hongjoong insisted. "But they didn't have a choice. They died. In that accident, you got hurt right? Eomma and appa died."

"I die too?" Minjae asked.

Seonghwa's surprised gasp filled the air, he practically launched forward from his seat for the boy. "No Minjae, no. You're not dead and you're not going to die." His own eyes looked like they began to fill with tears.

Hongjoong's arms moved around Minjae and he lifted him up slightly, resting the child on his chest. "Minnie not dead and Minnie won't die" Hongjoong said holding him tight. "Minnie is going to come home with uncle Joong and Uncle Hwa okay? We love you so much Minnie and we are going to take care of you forever and ever. You will come home safe and sound."

"Home?" Minjae questioned.

"Yes," Hongjoong answered. "Home with uncle Joong and uncle Hwa."

"Home with eomma and appa?" Minjae asked.

"No," Hongjoong explained softly. "You're not going home with eomma and appa. You're going home with uncle Joong and uncle Hwa," he repeated.

Hongjoong wasn't sure if Minjae completely comprehended what death meant, but in the very least he was grasping that eomma and appa were gone in some way. He was recognizing that he wouldn't be with his parents.

"Appa" Minjae whimpered, the tears he had been holding back began to fall down his cheeks. "Eomma."

Hongjoong's heart broke for the little boy, his own tears started to form. "I'm sorry" the adult whined. He held the boy close, despite his struggles to run away. "I am so sorry" he pressed his face into Minjae's head, nuzzling his nose against his hair, breathing in the comfort of his baby lotion – some form of normalcy that still lingered from home.

"You're going to be okay," Seonghwa encouraged. Although he had held on tightly to his calm exterior it had begun to break. His own tears had started to fall, "Joong and I are going to be with you forever Minnie. We love you and Su-Su so much. We promise not to leave you."

Hongjoong let out a cry, as Minjae nuzzled his face deeper into his chest. His hands went around him and started stroking the boy's hair. Trying to mumble light encouragement in hopes that somehow it would soothe the toddler.

All around him were tears. His shirt was being soaked through from Minjae's tears – not that he minded much as he understood the need. Tears of his own were running down his face, making his nose get stuffy in the process. And Seonghwa, he was wiping at his own face in distress.

Hongjoong had known that tears didn't make you weak. There were enough quotes floating around that tears meant you had been too strong for too long, that they mean you have a heart or are the emotions you can't express. But at this moment, the only thing Hongjoong felt was his weakness.