Title: Knots Are Knot for Everyone
Pairings:
Stiam (Stiles Stilinski + Liam Dunbar)
Fandom: Teen Wolf
Word Count: 8,134
AO3 Link
Warnings:
Brief Mentions of Non-Consensual Body Modification
Square Filled: Rivals
Written For: @anyfandomangstbingo
Summary:
Tis beauty I have nare seen before but to admire it is no chore. I see both the inside and the out. For him I’m on my knees. To him I’m most devout.
~ Duke Gajos
Liam fidgets in his seat in front of Satomi's desk as he glances at the envelope she's examining. He's pretty sure he already knows what it says but he's learned to be patient and it's not like Satomi won't tell him what it says.
He startles when she clears her throat softly but firmly. "Are you sure about this Liam?"
"Yes, Alpha. I'm sure." He smiles. "I know I'm just a beta and he probably deserves much better but I–"
"I think that's for him to decide and you're not just anything. You are a beta in both classification and a beta in my pack, but you are first and foremost Liam." Her voice is firm but not unkind. "Now if you are sure then I will see that you have what you need to travel as well as help you with your suit."
Liam wets his lips nervously and nods. "I'm sure."
Satomi smiles and holds out the letter so Liam can read it. "Read through it while I go retrieve what you'll need."
"Yes, Alpha." He takes the letter and sinks back into his chair as he begins to read.
Beta Dunbar,
I have received your suit and find myself intrigued. I've seen your status, pack information and would appreciate it if you could travel to the city for the upcoming season. I make no promises, but your suit has been accepted into the next round.
Please be at the city by no later than October the 13th.
Cordially,
His Grace
Mieczyslaw Genim Gajos Duke of Edinburgh
Lord of Amhearst Manor of the Edinburg Estate
Liam swoons and traces each letter with his fingertips. "I intrigue him," he whispers.
Once again, he is startled when Satomi clears her throat. "All right Liam. Your bag is packed. Here is your pack symbol and your suit is in a small pocket inside the bag. Be safe and remember to be yourself. Do not try to be something you're not for you know he'll see through falsehoods."
"Yes, Alpha," the beta says as he stands and sets the letter back on her desk.
"Take it with you," she instructs. "Let it remind you that he did choose you."
Liam blushes and folds the letter up, sticking it back into the envelope. Then he walks over and takes his bag, slipping the envelope inside. "I will make you proud, Alpha Ito."
She scents him and ruffles his hair. "I already am proud, but I know you will do well. What must we also remember?"
"Three things are not long hidden. The sun. The moon. The truth."
"Good. Off with you. You don't want to be late."
Liam hurries out the door and takes a deep breath before attaching the bag to the back of his horse. He's glad he convinced Brett to help him ride better because otherwise he'd never get to the city in time. With a click of his tongue and a gentle tap of his feet the horse starts down the path.
All the while his thoughts are filled with nothing but him. The spark known round the world but also him, the boy who runs with wolves. He smiles when he thinks about everything he's read about the spark as his horse begins to gallop.
The sun is shining, the sky is clear and he's on his way to prove his worth as a mate.
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
Deucalion Blackwood is a stoic man and also a vindictive one. He watches his beta as he lounges sideways in the armchair. "So, you know what I'm asking of you?" he asks.
Theo tilts his head and nods. "Yep," he says popping the p.
"Then tell me."
"I'm not some stupid beta or omega who can't remember things. I'm an alpha."
Deucalion glares him into submission with a rumble in his chest. "We have one shot at this, and I won't have you ruining it. We need that spark and since the other one slipped through my fingers, I refuse to allow this one to get away as well."
Theo huffs. "Then why don't you go if you want him that badly?"
"Because he's not stupid. He knows who I am and well we already have you in place to say which pack you're from without lying don't we? Tell me Theo, who's your alpha?"
"I'm my own alpha," he sneers.
Deucalion gives a full belly laugh with a sinister smirk. "Excellent. There was no skip in your heartbeat. See it's the truth because you believe it. Now get going. I'm sure there will be others there as well who are hoping to be the lucky one to get the spark. So do what you must. Just no killing."
Theo smirks and stands up. "Of course, Alpha," he purrs as he grabs his bag. "Is Shadow ready for me?"
"You're taking Nightmare instead."
"Fine. Whatever." Theo rolls his eyes and pushes past his alpha freezing when claws grasp at his neck. "Yes, Alpha Blackwood."
Deuc smiles, tightening his hold for just a moment before releasing the beta. "Good boy. Shoo!"
Theo holds in a growl of annoyance as he leaves the manor and secures his bag to the ink black horse. He mounts Nightmare and heads off down the road. He snorts. "Nightmare. How fitting."
The alpha allows his mind to wander. He's seen the spark and the man is beautiful as fuck. He's also wickedly clever and very pretty. Theo smirks. "Such a pretty omega is he. Oh, the things I'll do when he's mine."
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
The Duke paces in his study, his mind racing with chaos. What if they don't come? What if they come and he doesn't want or like any of them? What if he gets a real knothead who only wants–
"You're thinking too hard about this, Your Grace."
He whips his head towards the study door and sighs. "Lady Martin. My apologies. I am just so nervous."
Lydia quirks a brow. "His Grace, the one and only Spark Gajos a Duke, is nervous about his suitors? Like this surprises me?"
He glares at her and huffs turning to face the window watching the light rain pittering against the glass. "You know I've always wanted what my mother before me had. I want love but it's time to make a choice. Love or not I must mate. I just hope one of them will at least be someone I can learn to love."
The study door closes, and the other omega makes her way over. "I know. I wish we had more time to make sure, but I've seen the ones you did select, and I just know that one of them will be the perfect mate for you."
"You really think so?" he asks, not taking his gaze from the window.
She gently places her hand on his arm. "I know so."
Stiles allows himself another few minutes to collect himself and then straightens his posture, his eyes flaring turquoise. "Let's get ready then. I have suitors to impress and a mate to meet."
"That's the spirit."
"Actually, it's spark."
He ducks to avoid her playful smack to the back of his head and lets her lead him to his room. There is much to do yet and what the hell should he wear? Thank hell for Lady Lydia Martin.
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
The morning of October 13th the manor and the estate itself, is a blur of activity as everyone puts finishing touches on the decorations, food and well Lydia of course puts the finishing touches on Stiles's outfit.
The stable hands receive the horses as the suitors begin to arrive and then they are led to the main room where refreshments are served while they wait for the Duke's arrival.
"I don't know if I can do this, Lyds. It's so much more daunting to see them all. Before they were just like an idea in my head and now they're actually like here and actual people."
She smooths out the collar of his coat and sighs. "Take a breath before you have a panic attack or spark out on accident."
He looks at her affronted. "I haven't sparked out in years."
"Exactly. So don't start now." She steps back and turns him to face the mirror. "What do you think?"
The Man gapes at his reflection then turns to the left and back to the right. "Holy shit," he mutters. "Damn. I look good."
Lydia stifles a laugh even as she fondly rolls her eyes. "You always look good. I just know how to bring it out. Now remember you are the Duke. You are the spark. This is your domain. They have to prove themselves. You have proven yourself to the world. Don't make it easy on them. Don't let them make the rules. This is your game. You make the rules. Act aloof and above it all but also use that sarcastic assholery that charmed me into being your best friend when we first met. Got it?"
Stiles swallows and nods. "Got it."
He adjusts his cravat and runs his hands down his front to smooth out the fabric of his black double breasted dress coat of fine wool his mother had made for him with real silver buttons. Underneath that he's wearing a light turquoise colored waistcoat over a white linen shirt. He rakes his eyes lower to admire the look of his off white tight fitting pantaloons tucked into black boots and then adjusts his black velvet cloak. "This is as good as it's going to get."
He turns and takes the black gloves from Lydia pressing a kiss to her temple. She smiles and ushers him to the door. "Good luck."
"Thank you," he whispers. He opens the door and glances back once more. "I'll tell you all about it over afternoon tea. Okay?"
"You'd better." She bites her lip and then nods. "Also remember that secondary gender should hold no bearing on your decision of them as a person. Just as your being an omega shouldn't matter either. You are first and foremost. Mieczyslaw Gajos."
Stiles smiles. "I know. See you at half past two for tea. If I am late, send Beta Lahey for me."
With a final nod they part, and Stiles pulls on his gloves. "It'll be fine. There's nothing to fear. This is my domain. I'm in charge here."
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
Liam looks around at the other suitors with nerves plain on his face. There's so many of them and he's just one person. One beta and how is he supposed to stand out? He takes a drink of his champagne and remembers his breathing exercises that Satomi taught him. It's not that he's afraid of losing control but they do help with anxiety.
Everyone is mingling but Theo is surveying each and every single one of them. He's seriously not impressed by any of them. There's two omegas which is absolutely ridiculous. Why in the world would the Duke want another just like him? There are several betas and they outnumber the alpha's by quite a bit. He thinks he counted like ten betas, two omegas and five alphas.
Then his eyes fall on a beta near the far side of the room who looks like she might be sick. He smirks and makes his way over. Perfect place to start weeding out the competition because that's what this whole thing is: a competition and Theo refuses to lose.
Liam has noticed the alpha who looks at everyone as a threat but also seems highly amused by them. He shakes his head and turns his focus towards the front of the room. Soon the Duke will enter, and they'll all get to see him in person. He tries very hard not to think about the book in his bag written by the spark. He hopes that even if he doesn't get chosen that he might get to talk to the man. If he talks like he writes it would be a wonderful conversation, he's sure.
The room goes quiet as a door near the back of the room opens which has everyone turning around. They had all expected him to enter in from the other side. That is probably why he didn't. They may as well learn right now that he isn't like any other omega, and he won't adhere to expectations.
A servant clears his throat. "May I introduce His Grace Mieczyslaw Genim Gajos Duke of Edinburgh, Spark, Omega and Lord of Amhearst Manor of the Edinburg Estate."
Everyone's eyes are locked on the door as the spark enters. The women curtsy, the men bow and Liam swoons. He's beautiful.
Theo can't take his eyes off of those pink pouty lips and all the dirty things they can probably do and say. Though he loathes to admit it, he should thank Deucalion for letting him put his suit in. There's no way he won't be leaving without the pretty omega.
The spark glances around as he makes his way to the front where a wingback chair is positioned next to the fire. He does not sit however but instead turns to face them all. "Please find a seat. We will be here for a while."
The alphas in the room hesitate and the spark quirks a brow at them before tilting his head. "If there is anyone here who has such a high opinion of themselves as to believe they are more important than the rest of the people here they should probably leave now. I won't tolerate discrimination against other classifications. So, if you alphas think you're too good to sit amongst us..." He gestures to the door where a guard is waiting. "Then by all means leave. You are not required to be here. You chose to put in a suit. If you don't leave now and I catch anyone with that opinion later on, you will be asked to leave and perhaps banned. My godmother Duchess Hale would have words with those of you with that opinion."
Everyone stills and says nothing.
He sees one person open their mouth and quirks a brow. "Perhaps I should call on my godfather Duke Hale. His claws are always eager for some sharpening." His tone is playful but he's deadly serious. Better they learn now he's not to be trifled with and he's not stupid and won't be treated as such.
One alpha, a curly blonde glares at him. Her tone is offended. "You're threatening us? How dare you! We are the higher biological classification as alphas. Everyone knows that omegas need an alpha. So, what is this little charade you're giving us really about?"
Stiles makes a fist but then takes a breath and relaxes it with only two people in the room having noticed the reaction. "Miss Swan is it?"
She gives a self-important nod.
"I see." He signals to his guard and then takes a seat. "Pity but then again not really. Your disrespect not just of station but lack of human decency is not wanted here. Good day Miss Swan." His gaze falls on the embers in the fireplace.
"What? That's it?! Hey! What are you–" she swears as the guard drags her out and boots her from the estate. "How dare you?! Don't you know who I am?!" she snarls.
The spark smirks. "No. I haven't a clue."
Everyone can hear her shrieks of anger as she's escorted all the way to the gate and then locked out and the smirk doesn't slip from the omega's face once. When he looks back at the room full of people he tilts his head, quirking a brow. "Take a seat and let's begin."
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
Lydia is just pulling the kettle off of the fire when the parlor door flings opens and a furious Stiles stalks in, slinging his tailcoat over the arm of the settee and plopping into the wingback chair with a huff.
She lets him collect himself as she pours them each a cup of tea. It takes a good ten minutes for him to relax but the tea helps a lot.
"I apologize for my countenance upon my arrival."
She smoothes out her green velvet skirt and smiles. "No worries. I suspected you would be as such. Hence why I have prepared for you your favorite."
Stiles smiles and takes a few more sips, humming pleased with the taste. "Thank you."
"So, what have they done to put you in such a state?"
"Oh well. Let's see. I had three knotheads, one of which I had to have removed and the other two I dismissed. Which leaves two alphas. I had five out of the ten betas ask to leave because they didn't know if they could handle me and then the two omegas told me they only came to see if the stories were true about my being the furthest thing from an omega. Then they left with such dramatic docility. Society's definition of omega and I had enough. So, I asked the servants to escort the remaining five betas and remaining two alphas to their rooms until dinner."
Lydia watches her friend's shoulders slump and sets her cup down. Her scent is soothing to him. So, she makes her way over and takes his cup, setting it on the table before taking a seat on his lap. His arms settle around her waist. His cheek rests against her bosom and he melts into the fingers running through his hair.
"I wish she was here," he says, his voice barely audible.
"I know. I wish she was too. She'd be better at this than me I can admit but you're not alone. We all want to see you mated but above all we want you to be happy. I can ask Peter to put the fear of god into them if you'd like. You know he'd do it for you."
Stiles snorts and purrs at her ministrations, his eyes sliding to half mast. "Yeah. We'll save that for later. I think Duke Hale is just being overprotective is all."
Lydia rolls her eyes. "If I was him and had raised you from preteen to adulthood, I would be overprotective too, but he did promise to stay out of this. Be grateful for that. Had he heard the knotheads or even the omegas hell even the betas he'd be furious."
"Which is exactly why we won't be telling him."
They sit in silence for a little while just listening to the flickering flames and the sound of each other's breathing. Lydia continues to run her fingers through her friend's hair and smiles when his breathing evens out. "You sleep. I'll keep watch."
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
Theo is feeling quite pleased with himself. Planting doubts in the betas's heads had worked wonders. Of course, none of them have the firm hand needed to control such an unruly omega. It's better they leave and try their hand elsewhere. They are down to seven suitors now and Theo doesn't see any of them as threats.
He strips off his blood red dress coat with golden buttons and lays it across the chair in his room. He's a bit disappointed that they are all not staying in the main house. It makes for less opportunities to run into the omega but he'll wait. The final two get to stay in the main house. Obviously, he will be one of those. He smirks at his reflection unfastening the top of his shirt to reveal a toned chest. Yeah. There's no way he won't have the omega drooling.
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
Liam sits in the chair by the fire in his room reading his book. His baby blue double breasted dress coat with silver buttons is hanging on a hook on the back of the door. He's made so many notes over the years of things he wants to know more about and things he wants to discuss. He feels terrible for how the spark was treated by the rest of them. Liam wonders if anyone actually sees that he's a person like them with real feelings or if they do, he wonders if they just don't care.
It makes him want to bundle the omega up but also makes him want to give the other suitors a piece of his mind. He'll do neither of course but it's nice to think about what he would do if he had the right.
They'll eat dinner with the Duke this evening and Liam is looking forward to it. The cook he met, Marie, was so quiet but she talked to him about what it's like working for the spark. Her favorite thing is when he comes down to the kitchens and teaches her to bake. It made Liam smile that the spark goes down to help and not because he's an omega but because his mother taught him and he's teaching someone else. Then again Liam isn't someone who believes in gender roles. Not one bit.
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
When Stiles wakes up, he's feeling a lot better. All is not lost and there is still hope. "What time is it Lydia?" he asks sleepily.
She looks up from her place on the settee. "Half fast four."
Stiles's eyes widen. "Oh great!" he mutters.
"Why is that your response?"
"I promised to help Marie this evening. She wanted to make sure the meal was perfect, and I told her it's okay if it's just something simple, but she is determined."
Lydia smiles. "You're sweet to her. I suspect she wishes the same happiness for you that you've helped give her."
The spark's brow furrows. "What do you mean?" he asks as he fixes his turquoise waistcoat and off white cravat. Then he smoothes the legs of his breeches.
"I mean that you're the one who brought her out of the awful orphanage, taught her to cook and gave her a home. She adores you and you're like a father to her even though you're not old enough to have actually sired her. Plus, there's her brother and her mate. Both of whom you saved from an awful fate of being shipped across the sea. So, I should think it fairly obvious why she wants to make sure everything is as close to perfect as possible."
He blushes and huffs. "Well, I did what anyone would've do–"
Lydia shuts her book firmly and sends him an annoyed look. "Then tell me why the rest of the city did nothing? If anyone would have then why did no one else?"
Properly chastised he nods. "I see your point. I'll head to the kitchens to help her, and I'll see you for dinner."
"No, you won't," she says softly. "I can't be there. You know this but I will be here for more omega cuddles. Okay?"
"Okay."
"Now go on and remember you are perfect the way you are."
He snorts. "So cliche but I know." He kisses her cheek and leaves the parlor.
Lydia watches him go and looks towards the fire. She wants the best for her friend. Perhaps it is time to visit the secret room so she can see just what these suitors really think.
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
"Hello darling," Stiles greets cheerily as he hangs his coat up and rolls up his sleeves. "What are we having?"
Marie smiles at him with flour on her cheeks. "Honey bread with chicken and hopefully vegetables." She chews her lip. "What do you think? Too much? Too little? Maybe bread without honey?"
Stiles smiles and shakes his head. "I think it sounds perfect. You know how much I love chicken and there is nothing better or sweeter than your honey bread. Well, unless we count you."
She giggles and gestures to the fireplace. "I've heated the water for the veggies. I know you like the repetition of cutting them up."
"Indeed I do. You know me so well."
They work in companionable silence for a little while until Marie places the bread in the stone oven to bake. "Your Grace? I hope you don't think it forward of me but how did the first meeting go?"
Stiles pauses and tries to smile. "It could have gone much better, but it also could have been worse."
"Do I need to go deal with some knotheads?"
Her protectiveness makes him smile. "No need. I can handle some knotheads. It was more the others that wounded me. Hearing a bunch of betas say they don't think they can handle me and then omegas saying they just wanted to know if the stories about me were true and then leaving, that's what hurt the most. I'd rather they be sexist pricks about my biology than judgemental assholes about my personality and countenance."
Marie frowns, her heart hurting for him. "I'm sorry, Your Grace. It's a good thing I made the honey bread then huh?"
Stiles smiles and chuckles wetly. "Good thing indeed."
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
Dinner is served at half past six and Stiles watches as the remaining two alphas and five betas take their seats. He isn't impressed by either of the alphas but he did promise Peter to consider them even though he's pretty sure the man knows he won't choose one.
He takes his seat at the head of the table and the servants bring in the food. Marie gives him an encouraging and reassuring smile as she sets his plate down in front of him. He's about to thank her when two of the betas growl.
His gaze snaps to them. "Why do you think it is appropriate to growl? I ask for civility."
The betas huff and the raven haired one gestures with his chin to Marie. "Seems suspicious you have us all staying elsewhere and then let a pretty pair of tit–"
"OUT!!" the Duke snarls his fingers sparking and eyes black with rage. "GET THE HELL OUT OF MY HOME!!!!"
Both betas nearly wet themselves as they bolt out the door. Marie is shaking and startles when Stiles gently touches her arm. "Thank you darling."
Marie nods and goes to leave. She nearly stumbles but an arm shoots out to catch her. "Careful," the voice says softly, and she smiles at the beta she had spoken to earlier that day.
"Thank you."
Liam nods and then turns his attention back to his food. He misses the curious and intrigued look on the Duke's face.
Theo watches the omega and has to think of unsexy things to dampen his arousal at the display of power. The man is so damn gorgeous especially when he's angry. Maybe he won't break him fully because that anger is simply breathtaking. Five left and it's only the first day.
Stiles asks them a few questions after their meal is finished before bidding them a good night and retreating to his rooms.
Liam makes his way to one of the guards and speaks softly. "May I help with the dishes? I-I know it's probably not proper, but I don't really care when it comes to gender roles and I would like to thank the cook."
The guard, a stoic man, sizes him up and then nods gesturing to the kitchen but gives a look that says he'll be watching.
With a nervous gulp, Liam heads to the kitchens with a smile when he sees the cook but freezes when he sees the Duke as well. The way the light of the moon shines on the man's face makes his skin look pale but so beautiful.
Marie stops mid sentence and smiles. "Hello Beta Dunbar."
Stiles whips his head to look at him and quirks a brow. "I thought I bid you all a good night."
Liam swallows and nods. "You did, Your Grace, but I asked if I could help with the dishes, and I wanted to make sure she was okay. The food was delicious, and I-I think it was rotten what they said but I don't want to intrude so I won't stay if you wish me to go."
The spark bites his lip to hide a smile and gestures to the sink. "Have at it. I appreciate your concern for her."
"For both."
"Pardon," the spark says.
Liam rolls up his sleeves as he makes his way to the sink. "I was concerned for both of you."
Stiles's eyes narrow but before he can say he can take care of himself the beta speaks again.
"Not that you need me to be concerned about you. I mean I should think knowing someone cares matters a great deal but I also know that you're not some damsel either. So, though I'm concerned I also recognize the difference between someone who needs to be saved and someone who wants to be cherished."
Stiles swallows thickly and turns back to the fire. He sees Marie watching him and smiles softly at her. The beta helps with the rest of the dishes and then looks around to see if there's anything else he can do. His eyes fall on the spark now sitting in front of the fire much more relaxed than he was at dinner.
He allows his eyes to wander over the man's form admiring his beauty. He blushes when he sees more of the man's chest, and it's drool worthy, but his eyes are the real treasure.
Liam is pulled from his thoughts by the spark's amused voice. "Your assistance has been appreciated, Beta Dunbar. I should think you have much better things to do than stare."
Liam's cheeks flush. "Tis beauty I have nare seen before but to admire it is no chore. I see both the inside and the out. For him I'm on my knees. To him I'm most devout."
The spark's eyes darken but with heat and his breath catches. "You've read..." he trails off. "I'll see you in the morning, Beta Dunbar."
He knows he's being dismissed but the soft smile, an almost smirk, that the spark is giving him makes his insides warm. "I hope so, Your Grace." Then he leaves and makes his way to his room.
Stiles can't help but smile, pleased with the beta and surprised at the same time. Marie hands him a bowl of fruit and smiles. "Someone seems to be feeling better."
"He's read my book. No one could quote it like that if they hadn't."
"Then I think sleep is in order so you can find out in the morning."
He stands and squeezes her shoulder gently before kissing her forehead. "Goodnight." Then he leaves.
She watches him leave and sighs hoping that he will find a mate. He more than anyone she's ever known deserves it.
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
The next two days see that only two betas and one alpha remain, and Stiles watches them closely. Lydia has of course given her ten cents because she doesn't give only two.
She agrees with him that Alpha Raeken is pretty to look at for sure, but he has no sincerity to him. Beta Alaksander is quiet but when he does speak it's not very intelligent. That's not to say he's dimwitted but he just doesn't keep up with Stiles in the least. Then there's Beta Dunbar and well when Stiles talks about him Lydia just knows.
By the end of the week the only ones remaining are Beta Dunbar and Alpha Raeken. The two men lounge in the main parlor as they wait for the Duke to arrive.
"So why are you here?" Theo asks.
Liam tilts his head. "I would say for the same reason as you but we both know that wouldn't be true."
Theo narrows his eyes. "Trying to imply something there? Don't be shy. Say what's on your mind."
"He'll see right through you."
"Then why am I still here?"
Liam shrugs. "Maybe he thinks you're pretty, but he won't choose you. I'm not saying he'll choose me either, but you can't fake these things. Alpha Ito says–"
"Oh, just shut up already. You're so annoying!" the alpha snaps. "He'll choose me because he knows he needs an alpha. What can you offer him that I can't?"
The two men are oblivious to the partially ajar door.
The beta tilts his head. "An equal."
Theo snorts. "Alphas and omegas aren't equal. Neither are betas and omegas. You will have no hope of a match if you can't give him a firm hand."
"Why do you think he's something to be controlled or changed? He's perfect the way he is."
"You're just a lovesick puppy, a fool and he'll see that. Tell me, does he know you keep a book he wrote with little notes in it?" The alpha pulls the book out and smirks.
Liam's eyes widen and he makes fists. "Give it back to me. You shouldn't have gotten your hands on it. It was in my room."
Theo makes a tiny tear on the page eliciting a whimper from the beta. "Yes, but it should have been my room. Tell me why did the omega let you be closer to him than me? Have you been sleeping with him to gain his favor?" he asks, making a small tear on another page.
"Stop! Please? Just give me the book back."
"Tell me the truth and rescind your suit. You do that and I'll give you the book."
Liam swallows nervously as his gaze flicks between Theo and the book. He remembers Satomi's words and almost smiles. "Three things are not long hidden. The sun. The moon. The truth." He smirks at the alpha. "I wonder how long you expect your truth to remain hidden."
"You little bast–"
The door slams open and Stiles stares at the alpha with eyes of fury.
Theo for all his bravado looks like he may wet himself. That fury isn't so wonderful when it's directed at him. "Hello Omega. We have been wondering if everything was alright since you were late."
"You should address me as Your Grace. I am more than biology and oh really? Tell me something, Alpha Raeken. What pack do you belong to?"
"I'm my own alpha."
Stiles smiles but it's not a nice one at all. "I see but you're a wolf and wolves without packs are to be brought to the city authorities. So, if you are packless, I must do my civic duty and warn them of a packless wolf."
Theo's face pales and Liam watches with wide eyes. The alpha tries to regain his composure. "I have a pack, but I am not lying about being my own alpha." He flashes red eyes at the omega and smirks. "Kneel."
Liam winces worried about the spark, but he needn't have been concerned. The next thing he knows the alpha is the one kneeling at the spark's feet and has a blade at his throat. "You can tell Deucalion that he's wasting his time. My mother never wanted anything to do with him and though he forced himself on her, he is not my father. So, you go back to him and if I ever see you again, I will kill you."
He wants to look away as the Duke mutilates the Alpha's hand as an example to those who view omegas as property.
Liam isn't ignorant to the fact that while Theo may have arrived an alpha in rank he will be leaving without his alpha spark. Blue eyes are obvious indicators of murderers.
Liam watches as the Duke's chest heaves and slowly walks over. He's not expecting to be slammed into the ground with the man on top of him, but he freezes.
"I won't hurt you. I am sorry for approaching, I shouldn't have crowded you."
The spark blinks a few times and the turquoise bleeds from his eyes leaving amber gems staring back at him. "I-I–" The spark's cheeks flush and embarrassment clouds his scent as he scrambles to get up.
Liam rests his hands gently on the spark's hips and the man stills. "It's okay. I'd react the same way if someone like him posed a threat to me or was connected to someone who harmed someone I love."
Stiles slowly relaxes and smiles but then realizes he's still straddling the beta and squeaks as he moves to sit next to him instead. "Still, I know it was intense. I knew he wasn't sincere, but I had not thought him connected to Alpha Blackwood."
The beta tilts his head. "Forgive me, but why let him stay if you did not think him sincere?"
The spark snorts and Liam finds it adorable. "He was pretty to look at."
"I admit to thinking that you would prefer an alpha over a beta."
"Now why would I want an alpha? I may be an omega, but betas are just as good. Plus, all the hype about a knot isn't my thing. They're completely overrated. I can look at something pretty and not want to fuck it or mate it." Then he glances at the lamp nearby. "See that lamp is pretty but I'm not into objectophilia. I'd prefer a perfect beta co—" he clears his throat, his cheeks a little pink. "I apologize. I'm getting ahead of myself."
Liam isn't objecting and feels a bit hot under the collar but clears his throat and shrugs. "I don't mind."
Stiles chuckles and gestures to the door. "Come with me."
He leads the beta to his own parlor and then waits until they are both comfortable before speaking. "Tell me about yourself, Beta Dunbar."
"What do you want to know?"
Stiles hums in contemplation. "Why did you put in your suit? Was it coerced, bargained, bartered, or free willed?"
Liam swallows thickly. "I-I um. So, I just joined a pack. My alpha has been helping me with control, but I still suck at it. I was coming here because I've read all your work and I've seen how you treat people regardless of status and I wanted to be able to talk to you," he growls frustrated with himself. "I thought I had my control at a place where I could try to court you. I guess it's not as good as I thought."
The spark is suddenly sitting much closer making Liam almost topple backwards. "You've read my work?" he whispers, his tone awed.
"Yes. Every word."
Stiles smiles and it's the first real smile Liam has seen from him. "Which was your favorite?"
Liam smiles. "Ses lettres d'amour."
"Est-ce que tu parles français?"
Liam nods. "A-A little. Not fluent but I would like to be."
Stiles finds himself brushing his fingers over the betas hand. "You're the first person to just make me feel normal. Other than Lady Martin or my father."
Their fingers intertwine and the beta's heart races as he meets amber eyes. "There's nothing wrong with you. You're you and shouldn't have to fit into the boxes others have made to try to control or change you."
"And you?" Stiles says. "You don't wish to change me?"
Liam shakes his head. "No. I wouldn't change a thing."
Their faces are so close now Liam's nostrils are flooded with the scent of pleased omega, and he rumbles in his chest before blushing. It makes the spark laugh and then his lips are on the beta's and nothing else matters.
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
Over the course of the next three months the two of them spend as much time together as they can. They share stolen kisses and exchange courting gifts. They ride horses and cuddle. Then they do Stiles's favorite. They go swimming.
They went into the water in just their braies. Stiles almost opted to go in naked but figured it was too soon for that. It felt like they were in their own little world which led to this moment.
Liam brushes wet strands of chocolate curls from the spark's face and smiles. Stiles loves those baby blue eyes, and he nuzzles into the palm cupping his jaw. They eagerly lean in and connect their lips.
They're far enough from the estate to afford them a certain measure of privacy as they make their way to the grassy spot beneath an oak tree where they press their bare chests together and intertwine their legs. The only sounds are the racing heartbeats, heavy breathing and smack of lips.
Stiles pulls back and searches the beta's face. "Be my mate," he whispers.
"Really?" Liam asks surprised but butterflies explode in his stomach as he grins.
It makes the spark laugh and kiss him again. "Yes. Really. Be mine."
Baby blue eyes widen and then soften. "Yes. I'll be yours."
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
With only close family to witness they mate in April in the evening under the oak tree where Liam said yes and it's hard to breathe in the best way when they see each other under the light of the full moon.
"As long as I have breath in my lungs, I shall be yours. As a spark. As an omega. As a Duke. As a mate."
"As long as I have breath in my lungs, I shall be yours. As a wolf. As a beta. As a Lord. As a mate."
They seal their bond with a bite and then Stiles slips the robe from his shoulders leaving his body bared to his mate. "Come catch me my mate. Come make me yours." Then he runs.
A howl sounds from the beta's throat as he strips and races after the spark. Mate. Mine. Claim.
He catches him in under an hour and tackles the spark to the ground. Both are glad they are so far from the city because neither of them could have kept silent for this.
As they lay together basking in the afterglow of their mating Stiles coaxes his mate to turn and face him. Liam smiles. "Are you happy?"
Stiles grins and pecks his mate's lips. "Very."
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
It's nearly July when an unwanted guest arrives. The newlyweds–they married two months after mating–are attending to their duties.
Stiles is upstairs writing letters of correspondence and Liam is downstairs in the kitchen with Marie.
A guard comes to fetch him. "Your Grace," the man says with a bow. "There is a man here and I was asked not to disturb His Grace Gajos."
Liam dries his hands and nods. "I'll see to it. Thank you."
With a nod the guard leaves and Liam makes his way to the front door. He's both surprised and not to find Theo standing there. "Alpha Raeken. You do remember what my mate said would happen if he saw you again don't you?"
Theo grimaces but plasters on a smirk. "I just wanted to be sure you were satisfying him is all. I figured if you weren't I could offer my services."
Liam gives him a look of disgust and snarls. "He's my mate and I'm his. There is no way you're going anywhere near him let alone have access to him intimately. You're insane."
"Hardly. I just think he acted rashly and figured he has to have come to his senses by now."
"You're delusional."
Theo makes fists. "Can you honestly say you fuck him and leave him satisfied?"
Liam smirks and crosses his arms leaning against the doorway. "No."
The alpha looks triumphant. "Then you need me. It wouldn't do for him to seek it elsewhere and bring disgrace to the name of Gajos. Not that much more disgrace can be brought after what happened with his mother."
With a flash of red eyes Liam slugs the other man and Theo ends up on his back on the ground wheezing. "The only one disgracing their namesake is you. Never speak against my mate or his mother's memory. Now you need to leave, or I'll kill you myself."
Theo spits blood and snarls. "Little beta has an alpha spark. You didn't earn it."
Liam grins. "Oh, but I did. I assume you've never heard of a True Alpha. Rising to the status by will of the heart. Now if you'll excuse me, I have other more important matters to attend to than further conversation with something beneath me."
"He needs a knot, and you don't have one!"
With a shake of his head his eyes take on an amused glint. "He doesn't want one. In fact, I know you couldn't satisfy him. You know why?"
Theo grits his teeth. "Why?"
"Because he fucks me, and I'm always satisfied. Every. Single. Time." He bites his lip and smirks. "I see him in the throes of passion and lust. Not you. He's my mate. Not yours."
"He knows how to find me when he needs a knot because mark my words, he'll want one. He'll crave one and you won't be able to give it to him."
Liam snorts. "Knot every omega wants a knot. Now if you'll excuse me, I am going to have my mate fuck me now." He turns to the guard. "Let Peter have him. Mieczyslaw said if he returned, he was fair game."
With a nod the guard pulls a cord, and a side door opens as the front door closes. Theo trembles at the man advancing on him. "Shit."
"Hello Theodore. This will be fun," Peter says, flicking out his claws.
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
The screams of pain are only slightly muffled by the door and Liam smirks, pleased with himself as he turns around but then he freezes when he sees his mate watching him. "Uh..." he says, his mind blank.
A hand stretches out and he eagerly takes it, moaning when lips capture his. Hands slip to the swell of his ass and squeeze. He groans at the harsh bite to his bottom lip soothed with a pink tongue as his mate stares at him with eyes full of desire. "That was so damn sexy."
Liam blushes and shrugs one shoulder. "I was just popping off at him is all."
Stiles squeezes the beta's ass harder and then slips one hand into Liam's breeches and presses a dry finger over his hole. "Well, it revved me up. So, we're going to go upstairs to my study where I should be writing letters and I'm going to bend you over my desk and fuck you." He nibbles at his mate's earlobe and then at the sensitive spot behind his ear. "You want that baby?" he purrs.
"Yes. God yes!"
The omega chuckles and leads his mate into the study. Lydia sees them disappearing into the room and shakes her head with an amused smile. She looks at one of the servants. "Get some towels ready. With the mood he's in they won't be coming out for a while.
She quickly makes her way to her own parlor not needing to hear the squelches of her friend's sex life. Goodness knows she knows way too much already.
Meanwhile in the study Stiles is on his back on the floor and Liam is straddling him. The omega is leaking slick like crazy, and the beta could die happy with that taste on his tongue. He pushes back against the tongue in his hole and long slender fingers stroking his hard cock.
He whines when he's told to get up and bend over the desk but the smirk on his mate's face tells him he can have full access to the omega's slick after. So, he bends over the desk and groans in pleasure when the omega easily sinks into his heat.
"You always feel so good. O-One of these days," the spark stutters out as he begins to firmly thrust. "I'll let you fuck me."
Liam rumbles at that even as he moans, unable to help the sounds he's making. He never thought that he'd actually get to have the spark as his mate but every day he wakes up next to him is a gift.
"Even if you never let me, I won't care. I could live without it just never stop doing tha–Fuck!"
Stiles purrs and covers his mate's back with his body as his hips circle and push his cock deeper. "Believe me, if you want me to fuck you I absolutely will but I do want to try it at least once." His hands grip his mate's hip tight as he snaps his hips harder. "Now cum for me baby. Let go and cum."
And Liam does.
🔥💛•👑•💛🔥
Stiles is elected into parliament two years after they mated and then a year later, they welcome their first pup that they name Claudia after his mother. She has amber eyes and blonde curly hair. She is the apple of her daddy's eye and Liam spends every spare minute with her that he can.
The two mates are happy, and they never care that they do knot have a knot.
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