Takigawa left after that, allowing John to eat and rest. The hours ticked by. He didn't know how long it had been, or what time it was, but he was given more medication and more food. A little later, a doctor came and checked him over. He was in perfect health now, and the last batch of medication should see him through to the next day. He was being discharged as soon as his alpha arrived to take him home. John bristled at the news.

"I'm not-I don't need-" The tube in his hand almost tugged free as he panicked. The doctor quickly grabbed his shoulder and wrist, stilling his movements and coaxing him back to the edge of the bed with a wave of soothing pheromones. John bit his lip and looked at the floor. He wasn't ready. He absolutely wasn't ready for it. The doctor was gentle as he checked the needle and the tubes. He sighed and released more calming pheromones, counting John's pulse as it raced against his fingertips.

"Your heat will return tomorrow, and we can't send you home unaccompanied. You're lucky. Your alpha has already signed your released papers and taken responsibility for your welfare," the doctor added as he stepped back checked John's charts. John shivered at the news. He signed the papers? How? Was he here earlier? I didn't sense him…He didn't understand how he hadn't noticed, though he was in a heat room, and scents couldn't penetrate the thick walls. He concluded that Lin must have been there earlier, when Takigawa visited.

Having little choice in the matter, John huddled on the bed for as long as possible, until he was told to dress and gather his things. He did as he was told, waiting on the bed with a looming sense of dread until the door opened and Takigawa entered. John looked up in surprise as he greeted him and took his duffle bag. John was hesitant to speak as he got to his feet, but Takigawa could see the question on his lips. He led the way, walking slowly as John reluctantly followed.

"Lin's waiting outside…He thought you might feel more comfortable if I came in and got you," he explained as they entered the main hospital. John covered his nose and mouth as the various scents hit him. His heat had been suppressed, but his nose was still sensitive. For the past day or so, he'd been isolated with only his own scent for company. Now he could smell alphas and betas everywhere. There were hundreds of people in the hospital. He felt a strong hand on his shoulder, steadying him as he stumbled. "A little sensitive, huh?" Takigawa sympathised as he fell back to walk a little behind, guiding him with a gentle hand.

Fresh air hit John's face as they stepped outside, and he turned his pale face up to the warm sun. He sighed as most of the scents retreated behind the doors and his own senses adjusted. He caught a new scent on the breeze. A small whimper sounded in his throat as his heart clenched. John stopped and gripped his chest. It felt like all the air had been knocked from his lungs. He couldn't breathe. His omega was screaming with need. He looked further up the path and saw Lin's tall figure staring back at him in something akin to shock. John felt his knees shake. It was almost like a scene in a movie. Need burned in his chest as he stared at his alpha.

He wasn't sure whether Lin had somehow heard his whimper or noticed his distress, but suddenly he was running. John felt like a deer in headlights, desperately wanting to run away from and run to Lin at the same time. His omega half was winning, keeping his shaking legs in place until Lin was gasping in front of him. John flinched and raised his arms in reflex, fully expecting a slap to be thrown his way after disobeying him. His eyes widened as he was almost crushed against Lin's firm chest. One hand had moved to bunch in his hair as the other wrapped around his waist, tugging him closer.

Lin said nothing, but John could feel what he was holding back. What were you thinking? You could have been killed! You could have been-John felt another whimper in his tight throat, closing his tear-filled eyes as he leaned further into Lin's tight embrace. The large hand that tangled in his hair was secure and almost painful. It was like Lin was trying to confirm that he was actually there. That he wasn't just a figment of his imagination. I was worried! I was terrified! Do you have any idea what you did to me? It felt like that's what he was trying to say, and suddenly John couldn't hold back the flood of tears.

"S-sorry-I'm-sorry!" His hands fisted in Lin's long black coat and crisp white shirt. He could feel Lin's spiced scent washing over him, wrapping him in warmth and contentment. His omega was thrumming with pleasure. He was exactly where he should be. Nestled in the warm embrace of his alpha. He was safe. He was protected. John hadn't expected this. He couldn't even process the strength of the love and adoration that flooded his senses. He felt like he was truly drowning, unable to kick to the surface. He couldn't breathe.

Lin finally drew back. His cool hands cupped John's flushed, tear-stained cheeks as he examined him for any sign of injury. His blue eyes were wide in surprise, a little nervous as Lin held his face so tenderly. Fingers slipped into his hair and explored his scalp, returned to his cheeks, stroked his neck, glided over his shoulders, and then slid down his arms. He seemed satisfied that he was unharmed. He leaned in, close enough to seal John's lips, but he seemed to get a hold of himself. He forced himself to retreat, leaving John breathless and confused.

"When will the suppressants wear off?" he asked in a quivering voice that was filled with fatigue. Now that John took a good look at him, he could see the red edges of his warm chocolate eyes, which still glittered with tears of their own. He bit his lip guiltily. He could tell from Lin's slightly stooped posture and pale skin that he hadn't slept in at least two days. He could sense his relief and the ache of want every time he looked at him. It felt like they were two pieces of a puzzle that were slowly moving closer together.

"Tomorrow…" John replied quietly, unable to meet Lin's gaze. His emotions were turbulent as he stood there. His omega side was in complete control now. He wouldn't be leaving Lin's side again. Not for an instant.

"Then we'll go somewhere and have something to eat first." Lin accepted John's duffle bag from Takigawa with a grateful nod. John felt his cheeks flush at the dominant attitude. It wasn't something he was used to from Lin. Not outside of sex, anyway.

"I ate just a while ago. I'm fine," John insisted meekly, his whole body freezing as Lin looked down at him. Gentle hands were holding his cheeks again. His blue eyes felt hazy as they darted to Lin's lips and back to his eyes. Lin was too busy to notice. He was examining the thinness of his cheeks and the bones that showed through his skin. It wasn't damaging to his health, but it wasn't good either.

"You call that food? Absolutely not! The heat will ravish your body from tomorrow, so I need to prepare it as best I can." Lin was firm, leaving no room for John to object again. Warmth was flooding John's chest as Lin spoke. His whole being screamed with need. He wanted to be pampered and protected. As if he could sense John's confused and needy state, Lin pulled him closer and tucked his head beneath his chin for a while. John couldn't help breathing in Lin's strong scent. It was calming. Reassuring. The chocolate spice caressed him like an embrace.

Takigawa quickly excused himself, thinking it was about time for the mated pair to finally spend some time together. Lin nodded his quiet thanks while John suddenly felt vulnerable and uncomfortable. He'd never been for lunch, or even a drink, alone with Lin. Even before they were mated. John had always called them friends, but truthfully, they were more like simple co-workers. Acquaintances. Besides his knowledge of spiritual rituals and dark magic, John knew very little about him. He was mated to a total stranger, yet his body and soul were content. He yearned for Lin and trusted him implicitly.

"Can you think of anything you'd like?" Lin had the same issues as John. Had it been Naru at his side, he would have headed to the nearest steak house or Western diner, knowing that he secretly craved meat and fried breakfasts when he was stressed. John shook his head timidly, unable to think at all under the pressure. Lin slid the strap of John's bag over his shoulder, wondering if he'd really thought his plan through. The bag felt incredibly light for an omega going into hiding for the duration of his heat. He gripped John's wrist tightly. He didn't want to risk losing him for an instant. His alpha was also cautious. His omega had tried to run from him once already. Even though he could scent his submission, he didn't dare trust it.

John kept his head down, making no objection or argument as Lin tugged him along. It wasn't an overly fast pace. He was deliberately walking slower to accommodate his smaller strides. The streets passed slowly, and soon they were in a busy area with a few eateries to choose from. It seemed to be a random choice as Lin tugged him across the street. John realised it probably wasn't when he looked at the menu to see English text staring back at him. He looked up at Lin in surprise to find he had his own dark eyes pinned to the menu.

"I didn't know you liked Western food," John murmured quietly, feeling the awkwardness hanging between them. He felt like it was their first date. In a way, it probably could be seen like that. Lin didn't look up as he laid his menu on the table, leaning casually on one hand while the other skimmed down the list of foods.

"Whenever Naru is feeling vulnerable or stressed, he craves a taste of home…" Lin trailed off. John's cheeks flushed at his consideration. He'd chosen Western food, hoping it would make him feel better. He dropped his own eyes to the menu. "I don't dislike it though," Lin added in response to the earlier comment. John stole a glance at the generally stern man across from him. Stern was probably the wrong word, John realised. His gaze was measured. Considered. Balanced, and often searching. It could be stern on occasion, but generally, it was almost quizzical. Right now, it was vaguely astonished. His dark eyes widened ever so slightly as he noticed John's measured gaze. John flushed as he realised he'd been openly staring.

"Sorry…" he murmured, though Lin made no judgement. He'd done a fair share of staring himself. "I…Maybe I'll just have a salad…" He wasn't really hungry. He winced slightly as Lin made a small sound of disapproval. When the time came to order, Lin took control. He allowed John to have his salad. In the form of a starter. He also ordered a large steak, saying he needed the protein and iron. John wasn't brave enough to argue, and even accepted that the meat would be rare, while he usually ate it medium.

"Try to eat it all", Lin ordered quietly, watching John's skin colour as he nodded his agreement. He didn't like being told what to do. He wasn't used to it. He knew that Lin was right though. The heat would seriously weaken his body, so any nutrients he could get now would help. He ate slowly, but Lin was content to wait. He surprised John by ordering spaghetti. John watched with interest as Lin's fingers elegantly twisted the pasta onto his spoon as he ate.

"You know a lot about Naru…How long have you known him?" John asked quietly, wanting to fill the silence. Lin obliged, telling John a little of their history. He was surprised to hear that Lin had almost been in his teens, and had grown up alongside the twins. He'd always been skilled in the dark arts, and Naru's parents had helped him through a rough patch. They'd more or less raised him themselves. He was hesitant to go into more detail. It was a sore topic. John could feel the dull aching pain that came with each mention of Naru and his family.

Lin was more interested in asking about John and his life in Australia. He was very interested in the small continent, though he'd never actually been there. John supposed it was inevitable at some point. They were mated, so it was only natural that he would meet his family someday. John couldn't imagine it right now. Lin gave him a look as his knife and fork stilled. John blushed as he quickly continued eating. Once their meal was complete, they stood to leave. John hesitated as they got to their feet.

"Lin…I…" John's lips trembled as he hesitated to voice his thoughts. I want to go home…I don't want tomorrow to come…I don't want that helpless feeling. The desire. The need…

"I'm taking you to my apartment. Don't worry…I just want to take care of you," Lin replied in a soothing tone, watching John's objections die on his lips. Lin wouldn't have listened anyway. John simply nodded his defeat and didn't move to resist as Lin took his hand. It was strange, feeling his fingers entwined with Lin's. His hold was firm and gentle, and he rubbed almost comforting circles on the soft skin of his knuckles. It was soothing. Almost…nice…

Lin hailed a taxi. His apartment was quite far from this area, and John was in no condition to be on a crowded subway surrounded by people. He looked fatigued already. Once they were in the back of the taxi, Lin coaxed him to lean into the crook of his arm and nestled him against his shoulder. He felt John relaxing as his scent filled his senses. He knew John hated being manipulated like this, but right now, he wasn't putting up a fight. He was truly worn. As he grew tired, he even nuzzled in closer to find a better scenting position.

John slept for most of the journey, allowing Lin to examine him further with his tired eyes. He looked truly peaceful and innocent as he slept. Angelic even. His hand subconsciously clung to his arm for security. Lin would likely have slept himself if not for the alpha instincts burning in his chest. His omega was weak and vulnerable. He needed to be protected. Even within the taxi, Lin was painfully aware of the other alphas they passed, and even the beta in the driver's seat. He roused John as they approached his apartment. Honestly, it was more of a maisonette. He had two floors, and the building was only three storeys tall. It was an old, quiet area, but still busy. Most importantly, it was affordable. Generally, the lower floor belonged to Naru and the upper floor was Lin's.

Naru was still at the office, so silence greeted them as they awkwardly stepped inside. John couldn't quite meet Lin's eyes. Dread and anxiety swirled in the pit of his sensitive stomach. Lin led the way, guiding him up the stairs. John could tell the setup straight away. Downstairs was thick with Naru's sweet and gentle pastry scent, while at the top of the stairs John was hit by Lin's powerful chocolate spice. It saturated the air, the carpets, and even seeped into the walls. John's omega was purring. His heart thudded loudly as blood rushed in his ears.

"We share the kitchen downstairs, but otherwise our living arrangements are quite separate," Lin explained as they walked into the cosy living area. There was a sofa and an armchair, two tall bookcases, and a TV. John padded in further, his eyes landing hesitantly on the windowsill. It was just wide enough for him to curl up on. It probably wouldn't be comfortable, but it didn't look too bad. Lin watched as John sat with his back leaning against the alcove, tucking both legs inside the window frame. He had enough room to straighten out his legs if he sat a little straighter, but he was content to bend his knees with his toes resting against the opposite wall. He was almost hanging half off the thin ledge, but seemed content enough to tolerate it. "Do you like the window?" Lin asked as he walked over and watched him curl up vulnerably.

"I like watching the streets, and the sound of the rain is comforting on the glass," John replied quietly as he rested his head against the pane. It wasn't raining, but Lin knew what he meant. The sound of rain was soothing. It looked like it would get somewhat cool and damp beside the glass, though. The sill wasn't quite wide enough for him to settle comfortably, but it would do. The view was nice. It was a quiet street, but there was a small park across the street. It was barely a patch of green with a couple of old climbing frames, but it looked peaceful.

"I…did my best to accommodate you," Lin said as he motioned for John to follow him. John quirked an eyebrow as they left the cosy living room. Lin opened one of the doors that led into a relatively small bedroom, where a large bed had been squeezed in. There was barely space for a wardrobe and set of drawers with very little standing space. There were books stacked on the drawers, along with some pictures that John recognised as famous Australian landmarks. There were also a few paintings of animals and a delicately carved wooden cross scattered across the cream walls. The lights had been dimmed, and on the large bed was a collection of random clothes. "I've never made a nest before…" Lin excused awkwardly as John examined the bed with a raised eyebrow.

There was a thick, warm looking duvet and plump pillows. The bedding was a warm blue colour and looked soft and smooth to the touch. The clothes were likely Lin's. His was the only scent that John could pick up. There was a large grey fleece blanket, which felt incredibly soft as John ran his fingers over it. There were a few white T-shirts, which John hadn't expected Lin to wear. Every time he saw Lin, he was in a crisp shirt and pressed slacks. He found it hard to imagine the more casual Lin lounging in sweats and T-shirts. Some tops had longer sleeves, but all of them were plain block colours. No pictures or slogans. There was also a long woollen cardigan in a charcoal colour, which would have reached Lin's thighs. As John tugged it on, it reached his knees. The sleeves covered his fingertips, too. It felt warm. Cosy. Safe.

"I don't have much experience with it either…but thank you," John murmured in response as he tugged the large blanket around himself and climbed onto the bed. It was soft and plush, but with an underlying firmness. He flopped down and rolled around a little, pawing the different items of clothing and feeling all the different textures of cotton. Lin remained silent as he watched curiously while the omega settle into his nest, almost catlike in his writhing and purring. Lin would never mention it out loud. John was relaxing in his presence for the first time since their mating. He felt his chest flutter at the realisation.

"I'll bring you some tea," Lin decided quietly, knowing that John liked to drink hot English tea. He remembered because he took it exactly the same way as Naru and his brother. Lin felt a pang as he remembered. John murmured a shy thank you as he tugged the blanket up to his nose, almost hiding his face from view. Lin tried not to overthink things as he made the tea, finding himself eyeing the different cups, unable to choose which one John would like best. It was a stupid thing to fuss over. He finally reached out to grab any, almost flinching as his fingertips found that cup. His lips tightened slightly. He sighed as he set it down. It's just a cup.

He could barely see John upon his return. The duvet had been bunched and twisted. The blanket and cardigan wrapped around him securely. Lin's other clothes had been bunched up and tugged on top. It was almost like a fort that children might make to pretend they had a secret hideout or pirate lair. John's messy hair appeared as Lin called. He looked sheepish as he disentangled himself and accepted the cup gracefully. They returned to the living room. John was still wrapped in the cardigan. A cardigan Lin doubted he would ever wear again, having seen John in it. He watched as John shunned the sofa and headed for the window once more, where he perched on the sill looking down at the street below.

"How are you feeling?" Lin asked as he took the armchair across the room. He could smell John's scent a little more clearly now. It was slow, but the medication had worn off a little. It had worn off enough for John to start nesting. A few hours ago, he never would have dreamed of doing something as embarrassing as writhing in a pile of his clothes. Especially not while he watched. John's cheeks flushed a little as he sipped his tea. His skin prickled in delight as he swallowed. It was warm and comforting, and exactly how he liked it. It was as if Lin had been making tea for him for years. He cradled the mug closer, his spine relaxing against the cold wall.

"I'm alright," he replied shyly, unsure how much he wanted to tell Lin about his inner workings. Lin could pick up enough by himself. He could smell John's anxiety, and the fear. Despite the mating bond tying them together, John didn't really have a relationship with him. They barely knew each other, despite the year or so they'd worked side by side. They had a healthy respect for their skills and friendly interactions, but honestly, there were other people Lin knew far better. He often spoke to Takigawa, since they were a similar age, and he saw Mai nearly every day. Naru was obvious, since he was his guardian and had grown up with him.

"Feel free to read any of the books or watch the television. You won't disturb me by doing so." Lin opted to give him a little space by retreating to his office for a while. "And if you're hungry, let me know or check the kitchen. There are plenty of snacks." Both he and Naru kept a healthy stock of dry biscuits and crackers ready for his heats. Simple dry foods like that were the easiest to keep down and eat at those times. John murmured his thanks and watched as Lin left the room. He felt a little lonely, perhaps even awkward, by himself in Lin's home. It was like he was intruding.

John padded as quietly as possible to one of the large bookcases, curious eyes scanning the worn spines. Most of the ones on the higher shelves were nonfictional books about various spiritual practices and supernatural powers. They were all well used, and clearly some of Lin's favourites, since they were immediately accessible at his eye-level. That didn't surprise John. Nor did the small collection of crime and horror novels slightly lower down. What did surprise him was the bottom shelf, which seemed quite lonely and abandoned. There was a whole empty shelf with nothing but a few ornaments about halfway down, so the books at the bottom really were items Lin never touched. Why keep them in that case? He crouched down to look at the clearly worn covers.

These books were mostly written in English. They had slightly more colourful spines and covers. The titles and blurbs all suggested romances. It wasn't a genre he imagined Lin having much interest in. Perhaps the occasional passing fancy? He tugged out one of the English volumes. He often read English on his phone, but most of the books available in shops were in Japanese. It was quite novel, almost nostalgic, to hold an English book in his hands that wasn't his well-worn bible. He returned to his place in the window and opened the book. His cheeks flushed as he almost snapped it shut immediately. It hadn't started how he'd expected.