Yeonjun had been awake for some time. The problem with Ahin had kept him awake most of the night. He knew it was acceptable in their society, but he personally hated the thought of it, even if he couldn't think of what to do about it. He was glad they could only speak telepathically to one another. If Beomgyu knew what was in his mind, he wouldn't be sleeping as soundly.
Beomgyu sighed and moved. Yeonjun tightened his arms protectively and looked down to see the blue eyes blinking up at him. He took a deep breath. The only chance he would get to talk without interruption today was now before anyone was awake. He had to know what Beomgyu thought of it.
"I have something I need to discuss with you."
Beomgyu's eyes widened to fully awake and he gazed into Yeonjun's face. "Whatever it is, it's causing you worry." Yeonjun swallowed and Beomgyu's eyes narrowed. "What's happened? Now you're worrying me."
"I was reminded yesterday of something that hasn't occurred to me. Not that that's surprising, as we've been a little busy." He smiled. Beomgyu didn't.
"Concerning?"
Yeonjun blew out a steadying breath, his stomach churning. "Our mating."
"You've changed your mind?" Tears sprung to Beomgyu's eyes as he stiffened in alarm.
"Oh, hell, no," Yeonjun said fervently. "I know it's been so fast and we've barely had time to breathe let alone get to know each other—"
His words were cut off as Beomgyu plastered bruising lips to his own. Yeonjun hugged him fiercely and immediately dominated the kiss.
"Then we can survive anything," Beomgyu proclaimed as he pulled away. He gazed into Yeonjun's eyes. "This is really worrying you, isn't it? Please tell me."
Yeonjun sighed. "Firstly, you must know that I would never do anything to hurt you."
Beomgyu didn't move. Yeonjun knew he was waiting for the but.
"I have been reminded I need to sire an Alpha."
Beomgyu blinked.
"It has been suggested to me that Ahin may be suitable, but she has been approached by one of the Alphas from the canceled choosing, so if we were to agree, I would need to tell her immediately." Yeonjun's words dried up. Beomgyu hadn't moved, and his face was a complete blank. "To be honest, this isn't a conversation I ever wanted us to have, but if we have the opportunity to make it a little more comfortable for you, then..." Beomgyu still didn't say a word but if he had, Yeonjun was sure the sound of his own pounding heart would drown it out.
Beomgyu moved slowly out of Yeonjun's tight hold as if he were putting distance between them. "I have to be honest," he licked his lips, "when I knew what I was and that we were destined to be mates, fidelity wasn't something I thought to rely on."
Yeonjun winced. It was as if Beomgyu was saying he had no higher expectations of him. That he expected to be disappointed, so what did it matter? "I hate that we have to even consider it at all, and even more that we have to talk about it so soon."
Beomgyu pulled back and Yeonjun let go. "I understand, Sire."
Yeonjun felt the draft of cold air. It had been Yeonjun last night. "I—"
Beomgyu smiled. "If you would excuse me, Sire. I am grubby and need a wash." He turned and nearly bolted into the bathroom.
Yeonjun closed his eyes in despair. He heard the lock clicking, and even as he knew Beomgyu must realize it would be no defense against a werewolf, he guessed that really wasn't the point Beomgyu was trying to make.