The Lynx

*

                Restless. Exhausted. An overwhelming headache. Chansung awoke several nights due to nightmares. When he did finally manage to fall asleep again it wasn’t long until he was dreaming about the northern town, the run-ins with rogue hybrids and hybrid-hating humans. After a few nights of terrible sleep, he couldn’t stand it anymore. He was exhausted and he didn’t know why. He thought of telling Wooyoung about the dreams but in the end he decided against it. Besides, the days in the bakery were exhausting enough, he didn’t want to weigh anyone down with his problems. It was as if not being able to have Wooyoung’s scent around him was affecting him more than he would like to admit. He had also been putting off calling Fei.

                It was the morning after the fifth night of broken sleep when he was woken to a sensation that was way too pleasuring to remain in slumber. It was like when Min-Jun had coaxed him out of his nightmare, except this time the hand was warmer, and certain parts of his body decided this pleasant sensation should be physically stimulating in many ways.

                “Wooyoung...” He whined.

                Hearing that ridiculous man chuckle, he opened an eye and glared at him. “Does it excite you when someone plays with your hair?”

                Groaning, he attempted to cover his head but Wooyoung managed to pin his hands down by his sides. “Now who is flirting with who?”

                “It’s eight in the morning, kit. I know you haven't been sleeping well so I let you rest a little bit longer, even though it really didn’t seem to help – but I really need you to get up so you can help me.”

                Chansung let himself be pulled into a seated position. “Don’t play with my hair...” He whined and tried to settle his unruly locks.

                “It gets me the reaction I want.” Wooyoung sang.

                Chansung immediately dropped his gaze and nearly died of embarrassment. “You did this to me on purpose!”

                “Did what?” Wooyoung asked innocently.

                “You scheming jerk.”

                Wooyoung laughed all the way down the hall. Chansung didn’t know how he made it to the bathroom. Damn the man. Damn Min-Jun for knowing one of his weaknesses and potentially sharing it with the mischievous Jang Wooyoung. Just as long as he didn’t find the other one, it would be alright. All hell would break loose if either of them discovered that one. Shuddering, he managed to get himself presentable for the day. Wooyoung and Min-Jun had already completed half of what they did in previous mornings. He helped them with the rest. When the shop opened he was seated at the counter and given breakfast. His mouth immediately salivated at finding chicken, Wooyoung's deliciousy good sauteed vegetables, and rice. He could eat his food forever, honestly.

                Customers came and went, greeted him, and gave him many welcomes and thanks. By the middle of the morning he found his head dropping, the exhaustion made his eyes droopy. The traffic into the bakery was low and the sweet smell of baked goods - plus the warmth of the kitchen - was lulling him to sleep. Feeling a hand on his shoulder, he found Wooyoung, again. His hands instantly went for his hair to protect himself from falling to his whim, this of course caused the mysterious man to grin.

                “Just can’t keep my eyes open for some reason...” He murmured.

                “You really aren't sleeping very well, are you? I bet the workload doesn't make it any easier...”

                Chansung shook his head. “Sometimes I just have bad dreams. I just," he deflated a little bit, "seem to be having them a lot more recently.”

                Wooyoung frowned. “Like the one after the day you arrived?”

                Chansung nodded.

                “Are they the same as that one?”

                He nodded again.

                “Go rest in the living-room. Junho should be here soon.”

                “You sure?”

                Wooyoung pointed to the stairs.

                “Can’t make my money that way.”

                “You don't need to worry about that. Besides, I know you’ll make it up to me later.” Wooyoung assured and sent him on his way.

                As soon as his head hit the pillow he was out. He didn’t dream, thankfully. His rest seemed short-lived though. He awoke to the television. Junho was seated in the chair beside him. Grumbling, he slowly stretched back and came to sit up. Noticing the warm, brown irises pinned on him he shrugged.

                “Why are you allowed to get away with naps?”

                “Iuno...” He grumbled and slumped back onto the couch. “Why’re you up ‘ere?” He yawned.

                “Well, it’s mid-afternoon break.” Junho said softly.

                Chansung snapped up, “what?!” He’d dozed off for too long.

                “Min-Jun said to leave you be because you’re not feeling well. You seem pretty energetic to me. Wooyoung said it might be his fault and because of something he did.” Chansung did not miss the blush adorning those cheeks. He was going to murder Wooyoung, he swore! Junho shrugged sheepishly. “Min-Jun told me to take you out to help me with the booth decoration pick-up when you were ready.”

                Groaning, he covered himself with blankets. Chansung wanted to sleep forever.

                “Come on sleepy cat. You’re not going to stay on my good side if you keep snoozing the day away. Or are you moping?”

                “Not moping...” he grumbled, thinking Junho sounded strange.

                “Definitely moping.”

                Eyes widening, he fell off the couch and came to stand immediately. Wooyoung was leaning against the couch, that never-changing smirk plastered on his face. It didn’t seem like it carried his usual flare but Chansung could be misinterpreting him.

                “Look, the fact that you’re like this makes me feel even guiltier.” His hands came together in apology, “I’m really sorry, I didn’t think you’d be exhausted like this.” Wooyoung remained on the other side of the couch. “If I caused a restless sleep I’m going to feel even more at fault-"

                “You took advantage of me this morning!” Chansung grumbled. Recalling how Wooyoung woke him. Honestly, even if he was having a bad dream the guy was overdoing it.

                “But you calmed immediately when I did it.” Wooyoung sighed. “I told you before not to hold it in. Don’t make me force you to give in.”

                “Ah...I don’t think I should be listening to this.” Junho said, face red as a tomato. Then Chansung flushed. “I didn’t think you guys were that close-"

                “It’s not like that!” Chansung groaned and covered his face.

                Wooyoung, of course, was laughing in amusement. “No more napping. Honestly, all I did was play with your hair.”

                Chansung shook his head, but stood ramrod straight when warm fingers wrapped around his wrists. Attempting to bolt, the cause of his distress came even nearer, “don’t run,” Wooyoung said as he let his wrists go and crouched down. “You’re going to make the pup think I took advantage of you-"

                “It was your fault for saying it like that.”

                “Oh, you really are a bit off huh?” Wooyoung said and shot him a look, “Besides, don’t you think you’re overreacting just a little bit? It’s no wonder he made an assumption like that.”

                Could his heart rate thud any harder? “I...”

                “Oh, I knew he would rouse you faster.” Min-Jun said and set down a plate of food. He pointed at him and then the food which made Chansung whimper. “Are you being a pest again, Wooyoung?”

                “No...” He grumbled and got to his feet.

                “Hm, right...”

                Chansung watched Min-Jun as he descended down the stairs, leaving them alone once again. Wooyoung looked at him with a playful glint in his eye. “I know it’s hard to win a cat’s trust, but I’ve never experienced it like this before.” Wooyoung commented. “Don’t be tardy anymore. I’ll knock you out tonight for sure so you can sleep well.”

                Chansung stood idly, his mind on the food. “I don’t even wanna know how you’re going to do that.”

                “If you want, I can get the guest room ready. I’m sorry for how long Min-Jun is taking.”

                Panic rose in Chansung’s chest and he shook his head. He managed to catch Wooyoung’s wrist. “No!” He said quickly but then panicked.

                “No?”

                “Come on you lazy cat I wanna get this done soon!” Junho called.

                Wooyoung drifted down the stairs without waiting for a response. Chansung grasped at the air. What was he about to just do? He needed to backtrack. Things were moving just a little too quickly for him. He needed to focus on what was important, and right now that was quieting Junho before he got on his nerves. He needed a distraction. When he was seated in the work truck he noticed Junho a little tense.

                “I’m not making you nervous, am I?”

                Junho shook his head. “Just thinking about some things.” He said and pulled out of the driveway. As they stepped into their first store a girl wandered up to them.

                “Oh, Junho, are you guys participating in the festival this year?” She asked.

                “We are,” Junho answered, his tone slightly miffed.

                Chansung understood why when her gaze him. He knew that look.

                “Will our handsome new cashier be working the booth as well?”

                “He is,” Junho answered and tugged him along into the store.

                “I’ll be sure to drop by!” She called and raced off.

                Chansung turned slightly and grinned. “You do know my preferences are exclusively male, right, Junho?” He whispered in his ear, making it red.

                While he didn't get the anticipated reaction, Junho's ears did stay very red. “She’s just disgustingly persistent. If there was ever a person who spread their legs shamelessly it’s her, and she gloats about it.” He grumbled instead.

                Chansung was surprised at his tone. “Hm, she didn’t do something to you did she?”

                Junho shook his head a little too adamantly. “We’ll drop off the application form after this...”

                “Mmkay,” he said and followed him around.

                “Wooyoung is making his own dessert moldings so we’ll have to go to the customs shop, too.” Junho said and pulled out some dark orange table cloths.

                “Does he do that often?”

                “The last time he did it was about...” Junho tapped his chin. “Three years ago.” He smiled softly. “It’s nice to see him so active. It just seems like he’s been down for a long time. Guess having a new vitamin with a lot of charm really sparks up his spirits.”

                Chansung tilted his head, “vitamin...charm?”

                “You’re really dense, which surprises me.” Junho said in that same grumbly tone before handing him packages of plates and napkins. “Or maybe you’re not ready to see it yet...”

                “Yah. You’re confusing me...” He grumbled and set everything down in the cart. Noticing the pup staring off into the distance, he turned to see Min strolling around with her friends. Smiling, he leaned down, “she really is cute.”

                Junho snapped out of his reverie and blushed. “Shut up.”

                “Why not hang out with her for the festival? I’m sure I’d be able to handle the booth on my own.” Junho shook his head angrily and sped on through the aisles. “Why do you avoid her so much if you like her?”

                “Because,” Junho said quietly, “I’m a mutt,” and continued on.

                “No you’re not,” Chansung argued, taken aback that Junho would describe himself that way. When the shorter man stopped abruptly, Chansung skirted around him effortlessly and came to stand at his side.

                “Ne...I have a favour to ask - or maybe a question, because you don’t live here, and you come from a High family, and you’re not Min-Jun or Wooyoung.” Junho said in a rushed small stammer, but Chansung kept quiet until he was finished.

                “Okay, ask away.”

                “I...” Junho looked around. “Okay, in theory let's say I do really like her. But I...I am a mutt. I only know who my mother was, and I hope you never meet her.” He couldn’t meet his gaze again. “I’m a low-class mixed breed, and she...” Junho sighed and his expression fell even more. Honestly, how could anyone hurt this poor pup? “How could a low-class mix like me even hope to partner with a first-class omega? It just doesn’t happen!”

                Chansung moved forward without thinking. He hugged Junho close to him tightly and ruffled his hand through his hair. When Junho finally relaxed Chansung stepped back and said firmly, “firstly, don’t think of class.” He then proceeded to pinch his cheek which earned him a weak glare. “I’m sure she doesn’t care about that stuff. I mean, she always wants to talk to you, right? If she cared about class she wouldn’t even look at you.” Chansung pat him on the shoulder. “You’re not a mutt. I think you’re a beautiful chocolate lab.” Junho blushed, and looked a little less downtrodden. “Who told you about the hierarchies?”

                “We learned about it in school.”

                “Didn't they also teach you those aren’t strictly enforced in public schools or the general populace of hybrids? It’s only the families who wish to remain elitist and private, the so-called ‘first class’ families.” Chansung explained. “They're nothing like the Old families. I have a lot of issues with it. I can’t tell you how many families requested engagements between me and their daughters.” He couldn’t help but shiver slightly in disgust.

                “Is that why you ran away?” Junho asked, naively.

                Chansung grinned, “No. I just like to wander and seek what I want. I definitely got the selfish cat gene that’s for sure.”

                Junho shook his head, “I don’t think you’re selfish. At least you know what you want and you actually go for it. I wish I had the courage.”

                Taking a moment to think of how to approach that, Junho brought them to the cashier. “It’s funny you bring up class, Junho. Sometimes you don’t have a choice who your hybrid wants - who your instincts want you to be with.” He helped pack up the things.

                “Instincts?”

                “While I don't think of her the same way, my best friend admitted that she loved me for the longest time. My mother was beyond ecstatic too when she found out, of course it was probably a harsh dose of reality when the truth came out.” Junho paid for the goods and they walked together slowly. “It hurt her too, when I told her I couldn't be with her, but then everything changed when she found her Significant. It's honestly...astounding what happens if you find your Significant, what happens to you, how you change. She’s going to have her first litter soon!” He cooed and couldn’t help but beam. "I can't wait to see them."

                “I take it your mother doesn’t approve of your constant wandering, too. I bet she wants you to settle and start a family.” Junho chuckled, hitting the nail on the head.

                Sighing, he climbed into the passenger seat. “It's not that simple. She does, but she – and I don’t talk about this very often, but my family carries a rare trait. My mother is a double-hybrid carrier.”

                Junho seemed to still. “But...doesn’t that mean she can transform into two hybrids?”

                Chansung nodded. “Only 1% of the world’s hybrid population can do it. Even if the parents have children there’s no guarantee that their children will have it. This knowledge is passed down from generation to generation. Although, I don't know if she actually has a second hybrid.”

                “So...you don’t have one?”

                “Strictly subfamily pantherinae,” He rose two fingers as a peace sign.

                “Oh..? So a leopard? Are you...a panther type?” Junho’s body language tensed, but he smiled after a couple seconds. “I feel like I have the upper edge over Wooyoung. I bet you Min-Jun already had a idea about what you are.”

                Chansung couldn’t help but chuckle, but he kept his distance. “Their conniving nature is rubbing off on you.”

                “They helped me survive and realise that life isn’t always bad. Guess you could say you’re teaching me the same about cats...but I only like you.” Junho admitted, his cheeks pink again.

                “Oh! You like me?” He asked, grinning.

                “I’m not going to repeat it. Don’t be annoying.”

                Chansung settled back into his seat but his mood picked up greatly. He wasn't going to forget it though, the way Junho tensed up. A panther or some other big black cat was likely the culprit in whatever had happened to him.

                After dropping off the registration form they went to a metal working shop and Junho supplied the designs. “They want to go over the designs so meet me back here in about an hour.” Junho said and shooed him along.

                Taking his leave, Chansung spotted a small bookstore and wandered over. Strolling inside, he looked over the books and came to the counter. Ordering a coffee, the cashier accepted his change quietly and went mulling about.

                “Are there any books on foxes here?” He asked.

                “Yep, they’re in that section.” The man pointed and handed over his coffee.

                “Thank you,” he said and made his way in the direction he indicated. Sure enough there was a whole row of books. Checking the time he pulled one off the shelves.

                Out of the blue, a sour and bitter scent washed over him. Setting the book back, he heard a man speaking to the owner. He was gruff looking man, burly and of medium height. He was light-haired and his voice was baritone. This scent had a tinge he was very familiar with and he did not want to stick around long enough for the other hybrid to sniff him out. It was much too dangerous. Slipping out, the fresh air soothed his senses but he found himself tugged into an alleyway. Looking down, he found a shivering Junho.

                “Pup? What’s wrong?”

                “I...tried to come and get you but I couldn’t go in.” Junho murmured and pressed into him harder when they heard the door chime. Junho whined slightly and hid behind him. Chansung lifted the coffee to his lips as the man walked past their hidden place. Not so hidden when the man gave a sniff and he spotted the hint of a smirk. Hissing slightly he made sure his scent was nonexistent, as always now. Ever since he’d been in the shelter he knew he had to maintain it when not in the bakery.

                “Shh, it’s alright, he’s gone.” He cooed softly and ran his fingers through Junho’s hair. Resting his hand against Junho’s neck, the pup finally relaxed and snuggled into him. “Do you mind me asking who that is? So I know and also to warn you...” He asked and continued massaging the back of Junho’s neck.

                “That's Baron...” Junho murmured. His whole body tensed again and he looked paler and sickly.

                “Ah, I see." Chansung said, and recalled his conversation with Wooyoung. He had forgotten to ask him about a picture. They needed to get to safety, and fast. "Come on, let’s head back, ne?”

                Junho nodded.

                They made their way towards the metal working shop and were told Wooyoung’s order would be ready in a few days. The ride back was quieter, but mainly because Chansung didn’t want to disturb Junho. When they finally made it back, he shooed him inside and carried in the stock they’d purchased. When everything was finally in the house he closed up the truck. It seemed like Wooyoung was preparing for the following year as well. Noticing Min-Jun was seated by the door, cigarette between his lips and body tense, Chansung approached slowly.

                “I’m not going to hurt you,” Min-Jun said low.

                “Sorry, but I know better than to disturb an angry bear.” Chansung chuckled and sat down beside him.

                “Junho is...I guess you could call him as much of a son as Wooyoung. I’m super protective of them as you probably noticed.” Min-Jun smiled fondly and leaned back against the house.

                “I did...” Chansung said quietly and swirled his unfinished coffee. “He told me he liked me today.” He couldn't help but be proud of that.

                “Wow...” Min-Jun glanced at him. “You’ve been here less than a week but you make this old bear remember that we’re not alone, and how wonderful it is to have a full house." He said softly. "I’ve seen a lot of hybrids come and go through these doors. I never know how long each of you will stay, or if I’ll ever see you again, but the memories remain strong.” Min-Jun rested the cancer stick between his lips and closed his eyes. Chansung made to ask him something but Wooyoung came running out the door. He all but shoved a manila envelope in Min-Jun's face. “Really..?” Min-Jun trailed off as Wooyoung gave him a troubled look. “This just came?”

                "Why in the hell is he sending you mail? Have there been others?" Wooyoung huffed with a pout. "Are you really fighting that badly?"

                "Wooyoung-"

                The smaller male's eyes shimmered with tears and he ran back inside. Chansung raised a brow and looked at him inquisitively.

                “Well, I guess I'll have some explaining to do later,” Min-Jun said and opened the envelope. “Sorry you had to witness that, Chansung.”

                “I take it this is very important.”

                “Yes,” Min-Jun said as he read through the contents. A pleasant smile adorned his lips.

                “Someone special for you both I suppose?”

                “It seems we will be getting visitors and guests today.” Min-Jun said as he refolded the letter. “And before you ask, it is perfectly fine where you are, I...need you there for Wooyoung." He turned his gaze upwards to the sky. "The wind has been strange today...”

                Looking up as well, Chansung chuckled and sipped his coffee. “You remind me of the wolf Elder.”

                “Oh?” Min-Jun said and exhaled deeply.

                “Yes, and you’re being frustrating again.”

                Wooyoung came racing back, as if he was able to get his composure back as his expression was brighter, but he was still reserved. 

                “Happy my babe?” Min-Jun asked adoringly. 

                Wooyoung nodded, but smacked Min-Jun’s shoulder. “I haven't seen him in over a year...” He whined.

                “I know.” Min-Jun kissed his hand. “So, it seems Baron is getting bold. I may have to take action.”

                Wooyoung shook his head but went quiet when Min-Jun's scent filtered through the air around them. Chansung twitched his nose at how thick it was, almost possessive.

                “I think he may have been trailing me. I only realised just then. He obviously wanted me to catch a whiff of his scent.” Chansung informed and finally finished his cold coffee.

                “Don’t hold back, Chansung. Assert your dominance over him.” Min-Jun said, voice bridging on a growl. "I know you're laidback but you're an alpha, and he is not a person you take lightly."

                “I’ll know for next time.” He said and gave him a brief smile. “So, did you finalise the goodies you’ll be making for the festival?” He averted his attention to Wooyoung.

                This made Wooyoung finally relax and he got to his feet. He whipped out his agenda and read it over. “Yes...” He said slowly. “All we need to do now is order the ingredients.”

                “I'll do better for Junho. I let Baron get too close to us today.” Chansung said, worried.

                Wooyoung smiled at him, “Usually when he's been near that monster he goes into immediate panic. I like to think you being there comforted him. Even with the sighting of that bastard I’m happy to hear so many good things. I’d better make sure we aren’t low in stock on anything.” Wooyoung pat Min-Jun on the shoulder and tossed his cigarette. Min-Jun groaned and crossed his arms.

                “If I didn’t love that kid...” he grumbled. “Did you notice anything about Baron?”

                “He definitely knew we were in the alleyway. Like I said, I know the feeling of being trailed, I should have realised it sooner. Wolves teach you about trappers, game hunters and stalkers.” Chansung said and looked up into the evening sky. "How to be unseen, and seen only when you want to be..."

                “I don’t know if it’s good or bad that you have this kind of experience. With regards to Baron just keep a weary eye; while he doesn't usually go after hybrids who come from such high status, hybrids like you fetch the big bucks. You know his scent now so that counts for something. I want you to be safe.” Min-Jun got to his feet, touched Chansung's neck, and then lumbered on inside without another word.

                Shaking off the cold Chansung followed him and sat beside the oven. He hadn’t realised how chilled he’d gotten. He noticed a fancy set of pastries baking. Feeling Wooyoung move his chair back, he watched the baker remove the delicious goods from the oven and set them on the cooling racks. “Come help me make supper, Chansung. We’re expecting visitors tonight.”

                Rising from his chair he followed Wooyoung upstairs to the house kitchen. Already waiting were several steaks. Wooyoung got him peeling potatoes and cutting up vegetables. Soon it was smelling wonderful and Chansung hovered over the shorter man as he finished. Whining slightly he flopped down into one of the chairs and continued to observe him. Hearing Wooyoung chuckle he shook his head. “Don’t laugh at me. It’s been a while since I’ve had red meat.”

                “I realise it isn't likely the only reason, but I’m not used to feeding big cats anymore. Obligate carnivore, right?” Chansung nodded. “I promise to make more red meat for you.” Wooyoung waved him back over and handed him plates.

                “You don't have to do that...” He murmured and set down the dishes.

                “Remember to hide your scent.” Wooyoung reminded him.

                Chansung drifted in close and turned the confusing and mysterious man to face him. A surprised expression met his gaze and he fiddled with his hands a bit.

                “What is it?”

                “Do I...bother you?”

                Wooyoung tilted his head and scrunched up his eyebrows. “What do you mean?”

                “Is that why you suggested I sleep in the guest room? I hope I’m not bothering you...” He said quietly.

                “Oh...” Wooyoung cooed and smiled. “Just say what you want, Chansung.”

                “I can’t,” he murmured and leaned against the counter.

                “Why not?”

                “Because I’m not sure what it means,” he said and then gestured between them, "what this is..."

                Wooyoung seemed to slump but his lips still tugged at the corners with the hint of a smile. He flicked him across the nose and sighed. “Stop being so serious, I don’t like it. Your bed is still where it is, I’m not taking the responsibility to move you or your things.” He turned back to his cooking and looked it over. “Stop being so fickle and unsure, I like it when you’re confident.”

                “You make me nervous.” He admitted, gaining Wooyoung’s sole attention again.

                “Nervous? Why?” He asked genuinely curious.

                Chansung shrugged and made to speak but a new scent washed over him. He turned quickly and faced the stairway. Feeling Wooyoung tug him back, Chansung did his utmost best not to close this eyes and succumb to the warmth that was sparked in his body. He didn’t understand. It was beginning to frustrate him. He needed something else to focus on or he was going to lose it.

                “Wooyoung!” Min-Jun called. “Call Teri!”

                Wooyoung raced to the phone.

                “Chansung! Come and help me please!”

                Making his way back down into the kitchen, the sight of Min-Jun cradling a heaving body ignited his protective instincts. A beautiful lynx lay there, belly big and pronounced. Coming to kneel next to them, Min-Jun moved him so that Chansung was holding her head. “Pet her gently and encourage her to stay.”

                Chansung brushed his hands through her fur and nodded. Min-Jun sped down to his office and Chansung heard water running. The large paws flexed and the lynx tensed. “Shh, it’s okay, relax.”

                Noticing Wooyoung beside him, his dark gaze flew over her. He slowly eased down and rested his head against hers. His hand fanned out over her belly and smoothed back and forth. “You’re ready...” He whispered to her. “We’ll take care of them I promise, but you have to stay.”

                She whimpered and scratched at the floor again.

                Min-Jun had returned with two basins and towels.

                Chansung kept his gaze trained on both the beautiful lynx and Wooyoung. This was yet another side to the mysterious man. He was so gentle and encouraging. She was responding more to him than he could have managed. Which meant that Wooyoung had done this before, and was no stranger to a complicated birth.

                “Keep talking to her, babe.” Min-Jun said.

                Wooyoung closed his eyes, “come on mama, they’re ready.”

                She began to hiss and squirm.

                “That’s it, just like that.” Min-Jun said, completely in tune. “Chansung, come and help me.”

                He moved carefully around her and knelt beside Min-Jun. Sure enough, her first kit appeared. Min-Jun cleaned the newborn quickly and wrapped it in a towel before passing it onto him. Chansung looked down at the little mouth as it opened and took it’s first breaths. A shiver passed over his skin. Soon enough a second followed. They made little sounds and moved about within the towels. Min-Jun made a disgruntled noise and shook his head. Soon enough a third was placed in his arms. By that time, a woman had burst in through the doors and took over.

                Wooyoung had joined him with the cubs and leaned into him. “You held your siblings, didn’t you?”

                Chansung glanced at him briefly. “I never got to see their birth...none of them.”

                Wooyoung’s eyes turned towards him, an understanding there. “I imagine this is surreal to you.”

                Nodding, he couldn’t help but smile. It faded quickly when he realised a cub lay nestled in a basket, wrapped in cloths. Looking down at the three newborn cubs he couldn’t help but feel sad. He’d been witness to wolf cub births a couple times, but it was never easy to see a still birth.

                “Bring them here, Chansung.” Min-Jun encouraged.

                Chansung eased over and settled beside the mother once more. Bright yellow eyes peered up at him, her chest rose and fell with quick breaths. He set down the cubs before her and sat back with Wooyoung. Slowly but surely the cubs were nestled beside her and drinking their first meal. Min-Jun and the tall midwife had carried the still born away and out of sight.

                “She was carrying outside of season.” Wooyoung commented. “Wild lynx usually give birth in May or June...never in the fall. It’s worrying me.”

                “It was likely foul play.” Chansung had heard of and seen it before, hybrids forced to bear cubs, or sometimes accidental heat cycles left females pregnant and carried a heavy toll on their bodies.

                “So scary. Even if she doesn’t bear any wounds or signs of abuse, which I’m happy for, the fact that she's carrying now is evidence enough. Lynx's are so solitary, too.” Wooyoung was once again very close to him. “You love cubs and kits, don’t you?” He asked knowingly.

                Chansung flushed a little bit but smiled, “yeah, I do.”

                Wooyoung returned the smile, “so why haven’t you got a mate yet?”

                “You ask these questions at the most awkward times.” He grumbled.

                Wooyoung chuckled, “I’m curious.”

                “You’re always curious.”

                “Humour me, kit.”

                Chansung sighed, “because, I like males.”

                “I know that already, you’re avoiding the question.”

                “You’re frustrating.” He huffed, but that didn’t dissuade him. He didn't think that answer would satisfy Wooyoung, but he was still reeling off of whatever feelings were passing between them earlier.

                “I think I’m charming.”

                Chansung smirked, “Why so interested anyway?”

                Wooyoung shrugged. “You looked really happy...compared to what I've seen the past few days, it's refreshing to see.”

                Chansung noticed something then, something he didn’t know if it was real or not. Something in Wooyoung's expression made him ache inside and he had a deep desire to comfort him. He didn’t have a chance to reply because Min-Jun and the woman named "Teri" returned. Chansung was finally able to get a look at her. She was really tall, almost his height. Eyes bright and lively, hair white as snow, then he realised it.

                “You’re an owl...”

                “Oh, how perceptive - just like....” She trailed off and sat herself down. “Only one other person has realised what I was so quickly before.” She said with a mysterious smile. “Thanks to you both for helping her, the birthing was a lot easier with so many supportive hybrids around her." Teri said and checked over the lynx once more. "This birth was difficult and it isn’t the first difficult birth I’ve seen this fall so I’m very concerned. Did she say anything?”

                Both shook their heads.

                “Thank you gentlemen, go wash up.” Teri dismissed and Chansung tilted his head.  She really was an owl, noble and authoritative to a fault.

                Feeling Wooyoung’s fingers slide through his hair, he trembled a little bit but took after him. His mind was back on that lovely meal his generous "roommate" had made. Each took their turn washing their hands, their conversation before the lynx arrived on his mind. His thoughts kept drifting to the subtle touches. What was happening? Splashing his face with water, he needed a distraction otherwise his mind would keep wandering to the curious ways he was reacting to Wooyoung. He sat down with Wooyoung and they ate quietly for the most part.

                After supper, Chansung sat with the lynx mother until Min-Jun got him to carry her to the living-room and set her onto a padded bed. The cubs were lain down and nestled against her. The exhaustion hit him again as he watched them. Min-Jun shooed him up the stairs and told him, "the cubs would be here tomorrow, so go rest already."

                Chansung snuck up the stairs and entered Wooyoung’s room. There he found Wooyoung standing with his arms crossed and his head resting in his hand.

                “You look troubled.”

                “I’m thinking of how I’m going to get you to sleep and to do it throughout the whole night.”

                Chansung flushed instantly, “I think I’m tired enough.”

                “Lay down!” Wooyoung encouraged enthusiastically and faced him.

                Chansung groaned and did as told, what he didn’t expect was for Wooyoung to sit beside him, or his hand to smooth down his arm. But he continued to do it, slow and coaxing.

                “Have you ever gotten a tension massage?”

                “You just want an excuse to touch my face...” Chansung grumbled.

                Wooyoung grinned, but his fingers rested against his temples and slowly worked in circles. Slowly but surely, his hands ran back through his hair. “You’re getting special treatment I hope you realise.”

                Chansung couldn’t nod, which is what he wanted to do, so he had to opt for voicing it but it came out as nothing more than, “Mmhmm...”

                Wooyoung’s fingers ran down the back of his neck and massaged there. Chansung flushed even more but he felt so relaxed. Soon enough the warm hand was back on his arm. “Sleep kit, you’ll be alright.”

                Opening his eyes briefly, he noticed a far off look on Wooyoung’s face, the same one he wore sometimes. “What’re you worried about?”

                “Hm? Worried, me?”

                “Mmhmm...”

                “You, mostly...” Wooyoung said softly. “Just sleep, you’ll set me at ease. Like you want to feel about those kits.”

                Smiling softly, he snorted. “I do love cubs and kits. It’s because they remind me of my siblings.”

                “If they’re anything like you they’ve got to be super cute.” Wooyoung said and rested his hand on his forehead. “As much as I would love to chat, tonight you need your rest. Min-Jun will have his hands full tomorrow with the lynx and her cubs so you’ll be helping me in the bakery.”

                “Mmkay...” He watched Wooyoung climb into bed and settle down. “Do you want to have kids, Wooyoung?”

                A heavy sigh was the first response. “As cute as I think they are, not...not yet. Life is already stressful enough for me.”

                “I saw the look in your eye, Wooyoung. Something about it appeals to you.” He said and relaxed completely.

                “Yeah, maybe.” Wooyoung said after a while. “I enjoy seeing cubs and kits, children, but it's just not something I'd want in every day life."

                “Oh?”

                “Oh...” Wooyoung repeated in that teasing tone.

                “What do I have to do to get you to trust me?”

                Wooyoung went quiet and silence encompassed the room.

                Chansung thought maybe that question was a tad too personal, and he wouldn’t have minded if Wooyoung didn’t want to answer. But again, the man always seemed to surprise him.

                “How much more of my trust do you need? You’re so demanding. If I tell you my life story too fast, you’ll leave soon.”

                Smiling to himself, Chansung closed his eyes. “So who was the letter from?”

                Wooyoung shuffled around and hummed a small tune. “A very special person,” he said after a while. “Sleep, kit, please sleep. I need you to be functional tomorrow.”

                “Alright, alright...” He murmured. “Just, one more question.”

                Wooyoung groaned.

                “Have you figured out what I am? I know you’re a hybrid...so I'm curious, and I know you meet many hybrids so you’re probably really good at guessing.”

                "Well," Wooyoung shuffled again. “No, because you’re not ready to let me know yet, and I respect that, and because you don’t force me to show myself either. I had been physically restrained in the past in the hopes I share what I am.” His tone softened. “But, isn’t it good to get to know someone as they are, as a person first, and accept them then, and then come to know the rest after you’ve become real friends?”

                Chansung smiled, “yes, you’re right.”

                “At least you understand...”

                “I want to, because I know how it feels to have someone’s perception of you change after they realise what you really are.”

                Wooyoung chuckled a little bit. “It’s...crazy how alike we are. It’s like finding a kindred spirit or something.”

                It was quiet again. Wooyoung’s words were very true and Chansung agreed with them.

                “Get some sleep, kit. We can focus on being better friends in the morning.”

                Chansung laughed.

*

Next Chapter...Solemn Atmosphere; A Ball of Cotton